Ozempic: The Hype, the Facts, and the Foundations of Sustainable Weight Loss

Written By Gina Guillaume

In recent years, Ozempic has taken the weight-loss and diabetes management world by storm. Its promise of rapid weight reduction and better blood sugar control has made it a popular choice for patients and doctors alike. But how did Ozempic come to be, what are its potential side effects, and what does the research really say about its long-term effectiveness? In this blog post, we’ll break down the science, the controversies, and the importance of lifestyle as the foundation for sustainable weight loss.

What is Ozempic and When Was It Approved?

Ozempic, the brand name for semaglutide, is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. It works by mimicking the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate blood sugar levels, reduce appetite, and slow digestion.

  • Approval for Diabetes: The FDA first approved Ozempic in December 2017 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (FDA, 2017).

  • Approval for Weight Management: A higher-dose version of semaglutide, marketed as Wegovy, was approved in June 2021 specifically for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol (FDA, 2021).

Potential Side Effects of Ozempic

While Ozempic has proven effective in controlling blood sugar and promoting weight loss, it is not without side effects. These can range from mild to serious, and patients should always be aware of them before starting treatment.

  • Common Side Effects:

    • Nausea

    • Vomiting

    • Diarrhea or constipation

    • Stomach pain

  • Serious Side Effects:

    • Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)

    • Thyroid tumors (observed in animal studies)

    • Kidney issues due to dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea

    • Hypoglycemia (when combined with other diabetes medications)

It’s crucial to discuss these risks with a healthcare provider to determine if Ozempic is appropriate for you.

ADA’s Statement Against Compounded GLP-1 Use

In response to the rising popularity of GLP-1 receptor agonists, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) has issued warnings against the use of compounded GLP-1 medications, which are often unregulated mixtures of semaglutide created by certain compounding pharmacies. These compounds are not FDA-approved and may pose significant safety risks, including improper dosages and contamination (ADA, 2023).

The ADA strongly advises patients to use only FDA-approved versions of semaglutide, such as Ozempic or Wegovy, which are manufactured under strict regulatory standards.

The Weight Regain Phenomenon

While Ozempic has been shown to result in significant weight loss during its use, studies have indicated a troubling trend: many people regain the weight once they stop taking the medication.

  • A 2022 study published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism found that participants who discontinued semaglutide regained two-thirds of the weight they lost within one year (Rubino et al., 2022).

  • This weight regain is largely due to the fact that semaglutide’s effects on appetite and metabolism cease once the drug is stopped.

This underscores the importance of using Ozempic as a part of a comprehensive weight management plan rather than a standalone solution.

Lifestyle is Still the Foundation for Sustainable Weight Loss

While medications like Ozempic can be incredibly helpful, they are most effective when combined with sustainable lifestyle changes. Here’s why lifestyle remains crucial:

  • Diet: A nutrient-dense, calorie-conscious diet is key to long-term weight management.

  • Exercise: Physical activity not only helps burn calories but also improves mental health and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

  • Sleep: Poor sleep can lead to weight gain by disrupting hunger hormones and increasing cravings.

  • Stress Management: Chronic stress can lead to overeating and weight gain. Techniques like mindfulness and meditation can help.

Conclusion

Ozempic has revolutionized diabetes management and weight loss, offering a valuable tool for patients struggling with these challenges. However, it is not a magic bullet. The risk of side effects, the potential for weight regain, and the warnings against unregulated compounded medications emphasize the need for careful use. Most importantly, a foundation of healthy eating, regular exercise, and sustainable lifestyle changes remains the cornerstone of lasting health and weight loss.

If you’re already on Ozempic or considering Ozempic or Wegovy, Subscribe to my “Weekly Dose” newsletter released every Friday morning for some practical tips for safely and effectively using Ozempic.

References

  • American Diabetes Association. (2023). ADA statement on compounded GLP-1 medications. Retrieved from https://www.diabetes.org

  • Food and Drug Administration. (2017). FDA approves new drug for type 2 diabetes. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov

  • Food and Drug Administration. (2021). FDA approves Wegovy (semaglutide) for weight management. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov

  • Rubino, D., Abrahamsson, N., Davies, M., Hesse, D., Greenway, F., Jensen, C., ... & Wilding, J. P. H. (2022). Effect of continued weekly subcutaneous semaglutide vs withdrawal on weight maintenance in adults with overweight or obesity: The STEP 4 randomized clinical trial. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 24(6), 897-906.

Gina Guillaume
Next

So… About Proteins?