Ozempic: A Weighty Subject
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You may have heard about those new weight-loss drugs originally developed for diabetics: Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and more are on the way. They're so popular that there's a shortage. One presenter joked about them during the Oscars. Originally approved for managing Type 2 diabetes, these medications began to show promise helping individuals shed excess pounds by suppressing their appetite. They're effective for weight loss, and that's gratifying. But your wallet will lose a lot of weight, too: as much as $15,000 a year. Most insurers do not cover this use. For these drugs to keep working, you'll very likely have to continue taking them for life.
What is Ozempic?
Also known as Wegovy, Mounjaro, Rybelsus etc. These formulations all incorporate a drug called semaglutide. Semaglutide suppresses appetite by targeting parts of the brain that regulate hunger and cravings, and it prolongs the feeling of fullness after eating. The various brands of drugs that include it come with a long list of potential side-effects, some merely unpleasant, some much worse. The most common are gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Some users have experienced sagging, old-looking faces, because a portion of the weight loss occurs there, rather than where it's desired. The risks of pancreatitis, kidney failure, and medullary thyroid carcinoma are also elevated, along with gallbladder disease that can occur with fast weight loss.
How does Ozempic work?
One of the key benefits of Ozempic is its ability to suppress appetite. It works by activating the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor, which helps regulate hunger and satiety signals in the brain. By reducing feelings of hunger, Ozempic can contribute to decreased calorie intake and weight loss. Ozempic is prescribed for managing Type 2 diabetes. By improving insulin sensitivity and reducing glucose production in the liver, Ozempic helps individuals with diabetes achieve better blood sugar control while experiencing weight loss. Hemoglobin A1C is a marker of long-term blood sugar control. Ozempic has shown efficacy in lowering hemoglobin A1C levels, indicating improved diabetes management. This dual benefit of blood sugar control and weight loss makes Ozempic an attractive option for individuals with type 2 diabetes who struggle with excess weight.
Clinical trials demonstrated that Ozempic can lead to significant weight loss when used alongside lifestyle modifications. Participants who received Ozempic injections experienced greater weight reduction compared to those who received a placebo. This weight loss effect is attributed to the medication's impact on appetite control and improved metabolic function.
It’s important to note, only Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight loss so far, and then only for obese patients. The other drugs are being prescribed for weight loss, too, but off-label. If you or a loved one are considering this treatment it’s important to speak with your doctor to discuss the benefits and risks of semiglutide drugs to find out if one is right for you and to have the drug administered by a healthcare professional to determine suitability, evaluate individual risks, and monitor progress throughout your weight loss journey.
Side effects of Ozempic
Nausea: Nausea is a common side effect reported by individuals using Ozempic. While it typically subsides over time, it can be initially bothersome for some users. Adjusting the dosage or administering the medication before bedtime may help minimize this side effect.
Diarrhea: Some individuals may experience diarrhea as a side effect of Ozempic. Like nausea, this side effect often improves over time. Maintaining proper hydration and consuming a balanced diet can help manage gastrointestinal symptoms.
Constipation: Constipation and abdominal pain have also been reported while using Ozempic. While constipation is a less common side effect, it can last longer than the other gastrointestinal side effects. In one trail, people taking a high does experienced constipation for nearly a month, compared to only a few days of nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
Extreme side effects of Ozempic
Thyroid Tumors: There have been reports of thyroid tumors in animal studies. Although the risk in humans is still being evaluated, individuals with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or those with a family history of MTC should exercise caution and consult with their healthcare provider before considering Ozempic.
Pancreatitis: Another extreme side effect associated with Ozempic is pancreatitis. This condition involves inflammation of the pancreas and requires immediate medical attention. Individuals with a history of pancreatitis should avoid using Ozempic.
Changes in Vision: In rare cases, individuals using Ozempic may experience changes in vision. If any visual disturbances occur, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
Hyperglycemia: While Ozempic primarily helps lower blood sugar levels, some individuals have reported isolated hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is recommended to ensure optimal control.
Considerations and Restrictions for using Ozempic:
Medical History: Individuals with a history of kidney problems, medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), pancreatitis, and diabetic retinopathy avoid using Ozempic.
BMI: Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) lower than 27 may not be suitable candidates for Ozempic as a weight loss option. Participants for this injection should be those in the overweight/obese ranges of BMI which are 27+. The threshold of 27 as a minimum BMI requirement for Ozempic usage as a weight loss aid is based on several factors. Studies and clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy and safety of Ozempic specifically targeted individuals with higher BMI values. These trials focused on individuals who were overweight or obese, as they are more likely to experience weight-related health issues and have a greater need for weight loss interventions. Individuals with a lower BMI may not experience the same degree of weight loss or metabolic improvements from Ozempic as those with higher BMIs. Moreover, the potential benefits of Ozempic may be outweighed by the risks and potential side effects for individuals with a lower BMI.
Muscle Mass: Men with a lower. muscle mass should refrain from this injection, the minimum for each age for men is 40’s-23.5, 50’s-24.9, 60’s-25.6, and 70’s- 25.2. The minimum for women is 40’s-27.4, 50’s- 30, 60’s-30.8, and 70’s- 30. Ozempic may also lower your overall muscle mass so ask your doctor if it is right for you before taking it.
Pregnancy: Those who are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding should not take Ozempic, due to the side effects it could have on their baby.
