Is Ozempic A Weight Loss Wonder Drug? Here’s What You Need To Know
This is a writing sample from Scripted writer Sarah Huggins
A medication used to help type 2 diabetes patients manage insulin levels has now become the talk of the town as a weight loss wonder drug.
The benefits of using Ozempic, the brand name for semaglutide, as a weight loss quick fix has gone viral with everyone from Andy Cohen asking about the long-term effects to Elon Musk revealing he saw great results from Wegovy, a similar diabetic medication. The topic, “Ozempic,” has millions on social media curious about the drug with many speculating it contributed to Kim Kardashian’s recent slimdown.
Is all the hype around Ozempic warranted? Here are the basics on the diabetes medication craze and if it is worth trying.
What Is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a pre-filled injectable administered once a week that is proven to lower blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes when combined with diet and exercise. It also claims to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events like a stroke, heart attack, or death. Ozempic is in a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. These help control appetite and blood sugar levels and prevent the liver from making and releasing too much sugar. The medication also slows the rate at which food leaves the stomach, which decreases appetite.
Can It Help With Weight Loss?
Ozempic was approved only for diabetes treatment in 2017. In 2021, the FDA endorsed another brand of semaglutide, Wegovy, for long-term weight management in patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 kg/m2 or greater who have at least one weight-related ailment or in patients with a BMI of 30 kg/m2 or greater. In a recent 68-week study, patients taking Wegovy lost an average of 35 lbs or about 15% of their body weight. Placebo users only lost 6 lbs or 2.5% of their body weight.
What Are The Side Effects?
Side effects of Ozempic and additional brands of semaglutide include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, vision changes, and an increased risk of thyroid tumors.
How Much Does Ozempic Cost?
Ozempic can be pricey as insurance does not cover it for non-diabetics. On average, the out-of-pocket cost for Ozempic is $900 a month and $1350 for Wegovy. In August 2022, the FDA declared a shortage of Wegovy and encouraged doctors to halt prescribing it.
Is It Worth It?
The jury is still out on whether or not Ozempic is safe for non-diabetics in the long term. As with any weight loss trend, it is best to consult a doctor to see if it is right for you.
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