Can I Use Ozempic to Lose Weight?
It's all the buzz, people are using Ozempic to lose weight. Ozempic®, known generically as semaglutide, was developed by a Danish multinational pharmaceutical company, Novo Nordisk in 2012 and was approved in 2017 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in adults with type 2 diabetes. Ozempic® is given as a weekly injection. The primary function of this medication is to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. However, it has been found to have an additional benefit of promoting weight loss in some people and is being prescribed, off-label, to people suffering from obesity. The exact mechanism through which Ozempic® helps with weight loss is not fully understood, but several factors contribute to its effects:
1. Appetite suppression: Ozempic® belongs to a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. GLP-1 is a hormone that plays a role in regulating appetite. By mimicking the action of GLP-1, Ozempic® can help reduce feelings of hunger, leading to decreased food intake and, consequently, weight loss.
2. Slowing down gastric emptying: GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic® can slow down the emptying of the stomach, which contributes to a feeling of fullness or satiety. This can lead to reduced food intake and help in weight management.
3. Effect on insulin sensitivity: Ozempic® improves insulin sensitivity, which means that the body can use insulin more effectively. This can contribute to better blood sugar control and potentially reduce the storage of excess calories as fat.
4. Increased energy expenditure: Some studies suggest that GLP-1 receptor agonists may increase energy expenditure, helping the body burn more calories.
It's important to note that while Ozempic® can contribute to weight loss, individual responses may vary. Additionally, the primary purpose of Ozempic® is to manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Weight loss is a secondary benefit that has been observed in clinical trials.
While Ozempic® has not been approved by the FDA for weight loss, there is another semaglutide drug called Wegovy®, also made by Novo Nordisk, which was approved in 2021 by the FDA. Wegovy® is approved for people who have obesity or are overweight and have additional health problems. To be eligible, a person is to have a body mass index (or BMI) of 30 or greater or a BMI of 27 or greater along with other health problems related to excess weight like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, etc.
If you are considering Ozempic® or Wegovy® for weight loss, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine whether it is a suitable option for you and to discuss potential side effects and risks. Click here to read what some doctors are saying regarding these new weight loss drugs.
How does using Ozempic®/Wegovy® compare to the HCG Diet? Click here!