Ozempic is currently one of the most popular drugs on the market, with many Hollywood as well as Bollywood celebs allegedly using it to lose weight. Recently on Christmas, Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to post his "Ozempic Santa" look. However, in a follow-up post, Musk clarified that he's actually taking Mounjaro, which is similar to Ozempic.
Regardless of which brand of semaglutide the celebs are taking, it is important to address the risks and safety concerns that people have around the so-called 'miracle' weight loss drug. One must understand that shortcuts to a healthy lifestyle is never a long-term solution, but an addition to the already existing health problems.
To tackle the same, Onlymyhealth spoke to two endocrinologists to understand the role of Ozempic, whether or not it can be taken to lose weight, and the potential risks and side effects that can follow after the drug's usage.
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What Is Ozempic?
Ozempic, also known as semaglutide, is an anti-diabetic medication that was launched by Novo Nordisk, a Danish pharmaceutical company, back in 2017. While its primary use is to help improve blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, it has gained a lot of popularity for its weight loss effects. The medication is an injectable that is administered once every week under the skin of the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Dr Mahesh D M, Consultant Endocrinologist, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, said, "Ozempic functions as a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which not only helps lower blood sugar levels but also plays a significant role in weight management, making it a dual-purpose solution for those struggling with diabetes and obesity."
Ozempic works by acting like natural hormones (GLP-1) in your body. It helps release more insulin after you eat, reduce your appetite, and slow down how quickly food leaves your stomach. These combined effects help control blood sugar and lead to weight loss, the doctor simplified.
Is Ozempic Truly A ‘Miracle Drug’ For Weight Loss?
Although Ozempic has gained much popularity for its weight-loss benefits, particularly among those with obesity, Dr Satyam Chakraborty, Consultant Endocrinologist, Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, clarified that it is not a 'magic solution.'
When asked how the anti-diabetic medication promotes weight loss, he answered, “Ozempic decreases appetite and increases feelings of fullness, making it easier to eat less and lose weight. Unlike other weight-loss medications, Ozempic also improves insulin sensitivity, reduces inflammation, and slows down digestion, leading to more sustainable weight loss.”
A 2022 study published in the JAMA Network Open examined the effectiveness of semaglutide for weight loss in 175 overweight or obese patients. After three months, researchers found that participants lost 6.7 kilos. After six months, in the 102 patients who continued follow-up, the average weight loss increased to 12.3 kg.
However, Dr Chakraborty noted that sustainable weight loss requires a combination of healthy lifestyle habits, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Dr Mahesh added that while Ozempic has garnered significant attention for its potential to aid in weight loss, it is essential to explore the broader landscape of weight management solutions.
“Many individuals may find that alternative methods, such as lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and other medications, can provide safer and more sustainable results without the potential side effects associated with Ozempic. By examining all available options, individuals can make informed decisions that align with their health goals and ensure a more holistic approach to weight management,” he said.
Also Read: Adult Obesity Rates In US Drop for the First Time in Over a Decade
Risks, Side Effects, And Safety Concerns
Ozempic is primarily prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes; however, its off-label use among non-diabetic individuals raises important safety concerns, according to Dr Mahesh.
As per the FDA, Ozempic may cause serious side effects, including low blood sugar, inflammation of the pancreas, complications of diabetes-related retina disease (diabetic retinopathy), and allergic reactions.
The most common side effects in clinical trials included nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and constipation.
More serious risks include pancreatitis, thyroid tumours, and allergic reactions.
It's essential to note that Ozempic is not approved for everyone, particularly those with:
- Type 1 diabetes
- Pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer
- Thyroid cancer or tumours
- Severe gastrointestinal disease
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Ozempic In India
Ozempic is not officially available in India and is not approved for use in India. While the demand for Ozempic is high, the supply is limited.
"As of now, Ozempic, which is primarily approved for the management of type 2 diabetes, has not received specific regulatory approval for weight loss in India," said Dr Mahesh, adding, however, that the growing awareness of its potential benefits for weight management has led to discussions among healthcare professionals and patients alike.
"While it may be accessible through certain channels, individuals seeking Ozempic for weight loss should consult with a healthcare provider to understand the implications, potential off-label use, and the best course of action tailored to their health needs," the doctor advised.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your doctor if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]