Some studies also show that rapid weight loss from GLP-1 medications can lead to a decrease in lean muscle mass. "Rapid weight loss from GLP-1 medications can lead to sagging and deflation of your tissues, so in women, this can include the mons and vulva," said Katerina Gallus, MD, FACS. Ozempic, a medication used primarily to manage type 2 diabetes and support weight loss, affects digestion in ways that may trigger these burps. Although some studies suggest it may help people lose weight, we need higher-quality evidence for it to be compared to FDA-approved drugs like Ozempic. "With more data, we may be able to say that berberine helps decrease the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes." Berberine may lead to improvement in insulin sensitivity, reducing fasting blood glucose and insulin levels significantly in people who have a fasting glucose of 100 or higher. "If this early research is correct, it means berberine may help lower the risk for heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in the United States," Dr. Hunnes says. Experts suggest that after consuming berberine, your body may absorb less cholesterol while getting rid of more cholesterol through your bowel movements. Berberine has anti-inflammatory properties that may affect cardiovascular risk factors — especially in people with impaired metabolic health or a BMI above the healthy range. The most common adverse reactions reported in clinical trials include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation, occurring in ≥5% of patients. This content is reviewed by licensed pharmacists (PharmD) but does not replace professional medical advice. There's unfortunately little you can do to avoid this issue, and it has seemingly caught a number of younger individuals off guard when they realize how the side effect makes their skin look following the weight-induced transformation. Ozempic Weight Loss Side Effects Some studies also show that rapid weight loss from GLP-1 medications can lead to a decrease in lean muscle mass.Maybe even a better situation because it's a natural substance that's in your body that we're just augmenting.Results vary based on dose, diet, and activity levels.However, serious complications like pancreatitis, gastroparesis, and severe allergic reactions require immediate medical attention.Rarely, Ozempic can lead to dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in people who take it along with insulin to control their diabetes. Discuss with your healthcare provider the best way to time your dose. As the body adjusts to the medication, individuals may experience varying degrees of these symptoms, which can be unsettling but often improve over time as the body adapts. For example, it may cause digestive issues and low blood pressure in some people. High blood pressure is linked to heart disease and strokes.Although berberine may help with some health issues, depending on your situation, it may cause negative side effects.You typically need to have a certain BMI and participate in a weight loss coaching program.Ozempic (semaglutide) is a once-weekly injection used to treat Type 2 diabetes.Importantly for weight loss, GLP-1 also influences brain pathways that govern feelings of hunger and fullness.Studies show that it helps your body respond better to insulin and prevents your liver from creating more glucose.Ozempic is only approved for people with Type 2 diabetes. FIND CARE "Patients may also notice their genital region more with weight loss if it was previously hidden by significant fat in the pubic and lower abdominal region." Rapid weight loss can cause all types of fat pads to shrink, leaving loose skin behind, including in the face and even the vulva. People have coined terms like Ozempic face to describe the hollow or sagging appearance of the face following rapid weight loss, precisely because individuals cannot control where the weight comes off. Ozempic vulva is a phrase being used, especially on social media, to describe how rapid weight loss affects the female genitalia. For people with type 2 diabetes, controlling blood sugar levels is essential to preventing complications like nerve damage, kidney disease, and heart problems. Other weight-loss medications, such as phentermine (Adipex-P, Lomaira), have stimulating effects that help lower your appetite. There are several other medications that work like Ozempic that are being studied for weight loss. Of these three medications, Zepbound may result in the most amount of weight loss. And others may sabotage Ozempic’s blood sugar-lowering effects and counteract potential weight loss. For example, they may recommend a medication like Ozempic if you have prediabetes to help lower your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Does this mean that anyone can use Ozempic for weight loss? If you have Type 2 diabetes, one of the reasons you may be prescribed Ozempic is because it can help you lose weight. About 1 in 12 people in Ozempic clinical trials had diarrhea regardless of their dose. Both nausea and vomiting happened most in people taking Ozempic at higher doses. Nausea is usually mild to moderate and at its worst when you first start the drug or when you increase your dose. Digestive and broader physiological effects The FDA warns people of the dangers of using "generic" Ozempic and Wegovy. Read about primary care and why you should partner with a provider for your health Semaglutide treatments can also be used as an alternative to bariatric surgery for some patients who are obese. One other difference is that Ozempic is typically covered by health insurance, while Wegovy is often not covered. Don’t let your fear of possible facial changes keep you from taking a medication that could help you achieve a healthy weight. But if you maintain your weight loss, its effects on your face will likely stick around, too. “You can also minimize these side effects by using your medication in combination with a healthy diet and exercise regimen.” “It’s a very common side effect because people often maximize their dose to try to achieve target weight goals quickly,” Dr. Makin notes. Today, researchers are investigating the compound as a treatment for diabetes, high cholesterol, and even polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Evidence also shows the use of berberine-containing plants in South America, the Middle East, and Europe to treat different conditions. With a careful, stepwise plan, you can better understand how this therapy fits your long-term health goals. In summary, thoughtful habits reduce most early digestive effects and support adherence to Ozempic. Without enough insulin coming from the pancreas, which is the problem for many people with diabetes, sugar builds up in the bloodstream. The medication, like your body’s natural GLP-1, plays a big part in managing blood sugar and appetite. Wegovy has approval to help people lose weight when they have both obesity and weight-related health problems. Some experts suggest it may help support a healthier microbiome in people with gastrointestinal ailments and inflammatory bowel diseases. How much does Ozempic cost without insurance? Wegovy is a higher-dose version of Ozempic that’s approved specifically for weight loss. But some people without diabetes are prescribed Ozempic off-label to help them lose weight. But if you’re unable to use standard Ozempic doses, your prescriber may recommend a custom dose of compounded semaglutide, if medically necessary. This is because semaglutide, the active ingredient, has only been studied in people with Type 2 diabetes and those with a high BMI. Does thigh injection reduce Ozempic side effects? These ingredients work together to offer weight loss benefits similar to GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic, but from natural, non-synthetic sources, making Ozemra a compelling and safer alternative. We will explore how Ozempic works, its off-label use for weight loss, and the importance of clinical guidance in its administration. In this article, we aim to provide a clear and balanced overview of Ozempic, focusing on its role in weight management and the considerations that patients and providers should keep in mind. At SterlingMedicalCenter.org, we believe that education and evidence-based practices are essential for promoting general health and preventing disease. These drugs target specific receptors to influence metabolic functions. Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide, a synthetic compound designed to act like a hormone in the body. People report significant reductions in body weight, often when combined with lifestyle changes. Whereas before, we used to refer patients out for medical management. If somebody calls the office that has a BMI over 30 with a comorbidity, or over 35 without a comorbidity, we will offer them both medical and surgical management depending on what they're interested in. One-third of people who take Ozempic lose 10% of their weight. But GLP-1 medications – including Ozempic – aren’t magic. This type of drug mimics a hormone (GLP-1) in your body that your gut releases after you eat. This happened to about 1 in 20 people in the Ozempic for diabetes trial.Franklin has type 2 diabetes and takes Ozempic®.Paid spokesperson of Novo Nordisk.In the US, uninsured or self-paying patients can save on Ozempic®.The most common adverse reactions reported in ≥5% of patients treated with Ozempic are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation.Wegovy is a once-weekly injection approved by the FDA in 2021 for chronic weight management.We want consumers to know that Novo Nordisk does not directly or indirectly distribute the semaglutide active ingredient in its FDA-approved medicine for use in compounding.“Coverage and pricing changes will phase in during 2026 with cash prices for TrumpRx purchases as early as January,” says Michael Baker, director of health care policy at the American Action Forum. Dr Nagpal explains that on its own, Ozempic cannot build strength, protect nutrition or teach the body how to maintain balance. Semaglutide is a powerful medical tool, beneficial for many, but not without nuance. In rarer instances, serious complications like pancreatitis or gallbladder dysfunction can occur, underscoring the need for medical and nutritional supervision. As per studies, this can manifest as diminished strength, dull complexion and “Ozempic face”, which means sagging skin and signs of muscle loss that belie healthy transformation. You may give other people a serious infection, or get a serious infection from them. Do not share your Ozempic® pen with other people, even if the needle has been changed. If needed, your health care provider may prescribe a pen that delivers 1 mg or 2 mg of Ozempic®. Abruptly stopping the medication can lead to weight regain, which underscores the importance of continued support and lifestyle modifications. It’s crucial for individuals considering Ozempic to discuss their medical history with a healthcare professional to ensure it’s a suitable option. Our medically supervised programs offer individuals the opportunity to receive tailored care that addresses their unique needs and health goals. Clinical studies have provided compelling evidence regarding the effectiveness of Ozempic in promoting weight loss. One of the primary reasons Ozempic causes weight loss is its profound impact on appetite regulation. Today, healthcare professionals still continue this practice — even with Wegovy on the market. Weight management is a complex challenge that many people across the U.S. face. It can, but it isn’t sustainable, lacks nutritional balance and you’ll likely regain weight as soon as you start eating adult foods again Fat exits your body in your breath, pee and sweat Opt for snacks that have protein, fiber and healthy fats to prevent cravings and keep you feeling full and satisfied It's just the symptom of your disease, which is the excess weight that has been managed, treated, whatever you want to call it, by the operation. But then you have your third of patients on the lower end of the scale who are only losing in the 10 percent range, and they'll say 90 percent of patients lost at least 10 percent of their weight. And there will be other drugs coming out at some point. There was nothing that caused dramatic weight loss. Eight hours is what most people usually need. “Instead of focusing only on medication, it’s important to take a step back and look at your overall habits,” says McWhorter. You could also regain weight if you stop taking a GLP-1 too soon. What is the primary mechanism behind Ozempic’s weight loss effects? Learn about other weight loss medications that are available The degree of weight loss achieved with surgery is usually much greater and lasts longer than with medications. Ozempic has lower doses of semaglutide and was developed specifically for type 2 diabetes patients. You should always consult your primary care physician prior to starting any new fitness, nutrition, or weight loss regime. By mimicking GLP-1, the drug can help reduce high blood sugar and slow stomach emptying. Ozempic has gone from a little-known diabetes medication to a full-blown cultural phenomenon. It may also lead to weight loss that may cause your skin to sag. Weight gain is common during and after menopause, and weight loss can be harder. It’s possible you could start losing weight within a couple of weeks by taking either Wegovy or Ozempic. The only difference is that you take Ozempic at a lower dose. You can take Wegovy to help you lose weight together with eating fewer calories and exercising more. When i started tirzepatide (zepbound) over 18 months ago, i experienced gi-related side effects like nausea and heartburn. Most side effects get better on their own or resolve with lifestyle changes. While Ozempic slows down digestion, berberine helps control how the body breaks down and uses energy. Taking berberine may help lower your diastolic and systolic blood pressure (the bottom and top numbers of your blood pressure reading). High blood pressure is linked to heart disease and strokes. It may mean your body is adjusting, and that’s normal,” says Wesley McWhorter, DrPH, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. More serious, but rare, side effects can include pancreatitis, kidney problems, and potential thyroid tumors. By reducing these cravings, individuals may find it easier to stick to a healthier diet and make better food choices. Research has shown that GLP-1 agonists, like semaglutide, can decrease cravings for high-calorie, palatable foods. This delayed gastric emptying can help individuals avoid the urge to snack between meals, further contributing to weight management. For example, as berberine may slow blood clotting, taking it alongside blood-clotting medications may increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. This could impact how the body breaks down drugs and make them less effective or cause negative side effects. This means that there is currently no medical agreement on how well berberine can help people lose weight and that new, high-quality research on the topic is needed. In studies, participants lost an average of 15-20% of body weight over a year. One primary way Ozempic aids weight loss is by suppressing appetite. This mechanism is central to how does Ozempic work for weight loss, as it naturally reduces calorie intake. In people with type 2 diabetes or obesity, GLP-1 levels might not function optimally. This creates a positive feedback loop enhancing overall health. It also reduces glucagon release, a hormone that raises blood sugar. By boosting insulin when blood sugar rises, it prevents energy crashes that trigger hunger. Gut health may improve indirectly through better food choices. A BMI of 27 is overweight, BMI over 30 is obese. But as soon as they stop it, that weight returns because it's the same thing. It's more physiologic as opposed to having this drug that's in you all the time, that you don't really need in you all the time. Doctronic is not a doctor, does not provide medical advice, does not practice medicine, and does not provide patient care. Real-time health answers powered by AI—because your health matters now. A herpes rash can be an uncomfortable and concerning skin condition that appears in various locations across the body. Although some studies suggest it may help people lose weight, we need higher-quality evidence for it to be compared to FDA-approved drugs like Ozempic.Despite claims that berberine has health effects similar to GLP-1s, there is no conclusive evidence yet.Regular exercise and activity are integral to the success of weight loss treatments.But if you maintain your weight loss, its effects on your face will likely stick around, too.25 Gut Health Hacks is yours absolutely FREE when you sign up to receive health information from Harvard Medical School.It is essential to monitor blood glucose levels closely and adjust dosages appropriately. Inform your doctor about all medications, including over-the-counter ones. Pairing Ozempic with healthy habits amplifies its effects. If side effects persist, dose adjustments or alternatives might be considered. Like any medication, Ozempic can cause side effects. Improved cardiovascular health markers, like lower blood pressure, are common. How much weight can you lose on Ozempic or Wegovy? Berberine may also lower glucose levels in people with diabetes. Taking berberine supplements regularly appears to lower total cholesterol, “bad” cholesterol, and triglycerides in people with high cholesterol. It also kills harmful gut bacteria and encourages the growth of healthy bacteria, which may help treat conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol. Berberine's possible health benefits stem from its effect on enzymes in the body. The earliest records of the medicinal use of berberine date back more than 3,000 years, when people in China and South Asia cultivated the barberry plant and its relatives. To take Ozempic for weight loss, you will likely have to pay for it out-of-pocket unless your doctor lists your diagnosis as diabetes. The main difference between the two is the dose, since they are the same drug (semaglutide) and you take them in the same way. But it’s sometimes used off-label for weight loss since it’s the same drug as Wegovy. What should I do if I experience side effects from these medications? If you take these drugs to lose 10 pounds, and then stop, you'll gain it back and more because your body thinks it's Eligible patients with private or commercial coverage for Ozempic® may pay as little as $25 for a 1-month, 2-month, or 3-month supply for up to 48 months.a Helps your pancreas produce more insulin when your blood sugar is high And it's designed to respond when your blood sugar rises. It’s important to note that while medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide have been proven effective, GLP-1s can be expensive due to the lack of insurance coverage. These medications mimic a hormone released from your digestive tract called glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1), which helps lower blood sugar and promotes a feeling of fullness. Ozempic is FDA-approved for Type 2 diabetes, but prescribing it for weight loss is considered off-label. This diabetes medication can treat obesity, but it’s not for people who just want to drop a few pounds They’ve also been shown to reduce complications from kidney disease and even protect the brain. Some experts have noted that these prices may vary depending on the dose. If the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a different GLP-1 called orforglipron that’s now being studied to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity, it also will be about $350 a month. The agency ordered that the drugmaker, Novo Nordisk, add a warning label to the drug packaging. The FDA has received reports of at least 20 cases of ileus, including two deaths, among people taking Ozempic. Changes in your blood sugar, like those that happen on Ozempic, can affect the shape of the lens of your eye and lead to blurry vision. It usually happens within minutes or hours after the first dose. It can cause swelling anywhere in the body, but usually in the face, hands, feet, genitals, or lips. Ozempic, known generically as semaglutide, was approved by the U.S. If you have medical questions or would like to make an appointment or find out about the referral process, please call UCDAVIS. However, an off-brand version of the drug has been seen at compounding pharmacies across the U.S. It says there are no approved generic versions of these drug. “Today’s announcement builds upon our … goal of democratizing access to weight-loss medication, which has been out of reach for so many in need,” says Dr. Mehmet Oz, CMS administrator. By July, CMS will launch its own short-term program to allow eligible Medicare Part D prescription plan beneficiaries to pay $50 a month for GLP-1 medications for the rest of the year. The FDA approved the first GLP-1 pill for weight loss earlier this week, and the oral form of Wegovy is expected in pharmacies in early January 2026. These side effects were reported more frequently when starting to take Ozempic® or when increasing the dose. First dose, increasing Ozempic® dose, and side effects For a complete list of possible side effects of Ozempic®, see Prescribing Information and Medication Guide.Understanding potential side effects enables patients to recognize normal adjustment symptoms versus serious complications requiring medical intervention.These ingredients work together to offer weight loss benefits similar to GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic, but from natural, non-synthetic sources, making Ozemra a compelling and safer alternative.This means the FDA does not review these drugs for safety, effectiveness, or quality before they are marketed.The FDA has linked compounded "semaglutide" products to accidental overdoses of 5 to 20 times the intended dose."Rapid weight loss from GLP-1 medications can lead to sagging and deflation of your tissues, so in women, this can include the mons and vulva," said Katerina Gallus, MD, FACS.Decreased appetite was reported in 4% to 8% of patients taking Ozempic.An agonist is a drug that works by acting like a substance that your body naturally has.That’s because how much you inject is slowly increased over time to manage side effects. “Also, it’s very important to consider that these drugs have only been used for weight-loss management for a few years, so we don’t have enough information to look at people who have been using them long term.” It falls into a class of drugs alongside Wegovy and Mounjaro (which are approved for weight-loss) that mimic the hormone GLP-1, which your body uses to tell your brain that you’ve eaten enough. Ozempic has fast become the poster child of these drugs, despite not being officially approved as a weight-loss drug in either the US or UK (it was designed to help those with type-2 diabetes). Millions of people are now using weight-loss drugs, but it seems there are drawbacks that come with the slimmer waistlines You will start at a dose of 2.5 milligrams and adjust it over time to reach the desired effects. While Mounjaro is approved for type 2 diabetes, Zepbound is approved for weight management in adults with a BMI of 30 or more. If you need to lose a lot of weight, you might need to consider other options, including weight loss surgery. Compared to Ozempic, Mounjaro might work even better for weight loss. While they work in similar ways and are approved for similar indications, they are different drugs. From "Ozempic face" to "Ozempic body," these catchphrases describe noticeably loose, sagging skin or volume loss that can accompany rapid weight changes. Doctronic.ai offers quick, affordable telehealth consultations with licensed doctors who understand the latest medical research. With access to knowledgeable doctors 24/7, patients can quickly address side effects and optimize their treatment experience. Telehealth services such as Doctronic.ai provide a convenient way to get expert medical support from home. If sulfur burps are frequent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal pain, weight loss, or persistent nausea, professional evaluation is necessary. The medication's cost can be significant, and coverage by insurance providers varies. Patients and healthcare providers should collaborate in tracking health outcomes and treatment response over time. The role of GLP-1 receptor agonists in weight management underscores the enhancement of outcomes when combined with consistent physical activity. In some cases, you may be a good fit for bariatric (weight loss) surgery. This can help you find hidden calories or larger portions that may get in the way of your weight loss. This is where the lifestyle part of weight loss becomes important. Because of that, says McWhorter, “sustainable weight loss is rarely a straight line.” The vast majority of obese patients never got effective treatment because there wasn't effective treatment, or the treatment had more significant side effects. Stopping Ozempic can cause a rebound effect where appetite returns strongly, potentially leading to weight gain if sustainable dietary habits and healthy routines are not maintained. Is rapid weight loss with Ozempic sustainable? This is because in addition to weight loss, Wegovy is also approved for cardiovascular benefits for people with a larger body size and heart disease. And a higher-dose version called Wegovy is available for weight loss in certain people with and without diabetes. Taking anti-obesity medications or other GLP-1s, like Ozempic, may change your body’s reaction to food intake and weight loss.” Wegovy, which is a higher dose of semaglutide, became the most effective anti-obesity medication around, producing 15% weight loss in a one-year randomized controlled trial. Counterfeit box is missing content (or text) such as 0.5 mg dose and "for single patient use only," along with incorrect or missing lot/batch numbers. The dose amount and/or “-“ is shown in the dose dial window. For the most up-to-date counterfeit information from Novo Nordisk, please visit semaglutide.com. The FDA has also shared safety information on compounded and counterfeit "semaglutide" on their website here, with the most recent counterfeit report here (April 2025). Adults who are considered overweight and have at least one weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure, are also eligible for Wegovy. But if you don’t have diabetes, it’s also possible that your prescriber may prescribe Ozempic for weight loss. GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic help to lower your blood sugar levels, but people using them also tend to lose weight. That’s because Ozempic works longer in your body compared to other medications that need to be injected once or twice a day. It turned out that people taking tirzepatide lost more weight than those taking semaglutide. To look at this, one recent study looked at weight loss and side effects in adults who were overweight or had obesity. But many people might lose closer to 10% of their body weight. While they are approved for diabetes, both Mounjaro and Ozempic also make people lose weight by helping you to feel full longer. To take Wegovy for weight loss, you will need to be above a certain weight or have another weight-related health condition. Rapid weight loss can lead to facial sagging or hollowing and loose skin on other body parts. Patients using Ozempic with insulin or sulfonylureas may require dose adjustments of these medications to reduce hypoglycemia risk. Missing doses generally does not cause significant side effects but may affect blood sugar control.