Higher doses and strong lifestyle habits drive toward the upper range. Missed doses follow specific rules without doubling. Not suitable for everyone—pregnant or breastfeeding people need alternatives. It also might take more food for you to feel full than, say, someone else who’s never been at a higher weight. “It’s like a thermostat in a house, but now it’s broken,” says Dr. Nadolsky. Obesity genes also seem to cause some people to experience what’s colloquially known as “food noise.” People who inherit one or more of these so-called obesity genes tend to have particularly persistent “I’m hungry” and “I’m not full yet” signals, says Dr. Nadolsky. Influencers trying to meet a certain body ideal “don’t really help us progress the narrative around obesity,” Patton said. People shouldn’t be pushed into any treatment that’s aimed at losing weight or changing their body, he said. “Absolutely everybody should be able to live happy, healthy lives,” Patton said. No two people respond exactly the same way to any weight-loss approach—whether it involves medication, surgery or lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise—because obesity is a complex phenomenon. About 12 percent of Americans have reported using one of the new drugs—known as glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists—for weight loss. People taking popular new weight-loss drugs such as Wegovy and Zepbound often celebrate the number of pounds they shed and the related health benefits, but many doctors at weight-loss clinics are noticing a puzzling response in certain individuals. In particular, side effects are linked to high doses of Ozempic for weight loss. Traditionally taken once a week via injection, this GLP-1 hormone receptor agonist works in the body by regulating insulin secretion and suppressing appetite. We offer affordable medical care services including primary care, urgent care, pediatric care and psychiatric care. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. Together, we can help you achieve your health and wellness goals. Top of the: day, week, month. But, the drugs aren't intended for cosmetic weight loss. While the drug may offer a solution for some, healthcare professionals stress that any weight-loss treatment should be approached with careful consideration of the risks, and in consultation with a medical professional. As demand grows among those seeking weight loss, shortages of the drug are making it difficult for diabetics, who rely on Ozempic to manage their condition, to access the medication. In 2021, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a higher dose version, marketed as Wegovy, specifically for chronic weight management in individuals with obesity or related health conditions. However, its primary purpose is to help control blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes, and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in people with both type 2 diabetes and heart disease. She shed 90 pounds after embarking on a health journey that involved dietary changes, lifestyle changes, and the popular weight-loss drug Wegovy. Gharachedaghi's experience with the drug has seemingly been so positive that she went so far as to "encourage it to anybody who's having a hard time losing weight and wants the easy route." In a video in 2023, she talked about dropping about 30 pounds with the drug — "a little more weight than I was anticipating to lose" — and eventually cutting back and using it just for maintenance. Gharachedaghi has been candid about her weight loss trials with semaglutide — the active ingredient in Ozempic — on Instagram, taking her 868,000 followers through it in great detail. "I don't see a reason to hide being on a weight loss (medication) or a cosmetic procedure," she told Entertainment Tonight in 2023. Ozempic is a once-weekly injectable medication FDA-approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Increase insulin production to help manage blood sugar See how healthy eating can help you transform the way you manage your type 2 diabetes along with exercise. Is there a weight loss drug covered by Medicare? All participants also had free access to advice about healthy eating and physical activity. The largest, well-conducted research study of semaglutide was from United Kingdom in 2021. Here’s what to consider if you or a loved one are thinking of taking the drug. See our dedicated page on what these side effects might be and how to manage them. As with all medicines, Ozempic comes with some side effects. Wegovy doses go up higher, up to 2.4 milligrams weekly, versus 2 milligrams maximum for Ozempic. Novo Nordisk stands behind the safety and efficacy of all its GLP-1 medicines when they’re used as indicated and taken under the care of a licensed health care professional, it says in a statement to TODAY.com. “There’s a concern that maybe they’ll have some effect that we just don’t know in the long term,” Hari told TODAY.com, echoing a worry other patients may have. Semaglutide in pill form is in the works and may be appealing to more people when it's approved. Ozempic should always be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional familiar with your medical history. Although in clinical trials Ozempic did not influence the absorption of oral medications to any relevant degree, it is still a potential consideration to be aware of. Ozempic also causes slowed digestion, which can impact the absorption of oral medications. Low blood sugar can become severe if not treated, resulting in confusion, difficulty walking or seeing clearly, seizures, and even death. Around half of this increase may be attributable to obesity fueled by the widespread availability of ultra-processed and relatively cheap food options. Although studies were not designed to directly compare, the injectable form of the drug appears more effective than the pills. Researchers noted that a once-daily pill would increase the options for those struggling with obesity. However, Ozempic also comes with potential side effects, some of which may be serious. The typical dose for weight loss is 2.4 milligrams, administered weekly as subcutaneous (under the skin) self-injections. Currently, semaglutide is only approved for weight loss under the brand name Wegovy. For that reason, health care providers have used semaglutide for more than 15 years to treat Type 2 diabetes. One role of GLP-1 is to prompt the body to produce more insulin, which reduces blood sugar (glucose). Research continues to show the effectiveness of semaglutide injections for weight loss. Ozempic is generally well-tolerated, but as doses increase, so can the likelihood of experiencing side effects. Be sure to ask your doctor which one is right for you and your weight loss goals. To help break it down, we’ve gathered expert guidance on typical dosing schedules, potential side effects and tips for finding a safe, effective dose for you. If you’re wondering how Ozempic dosing for weight loss works and what to expect, you’re not alone. MI Express Urgent Care & Primary Care is your go-to medical clinic for all healthcare needs. Because of this, some people are using Ozempic as an alternative to Wegovy, even if they do not have diabetes. But Wegovy is approved by the FDA specifically for weight loss. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a weight loss medicine, many doctors now prescribe it for that reason. As a result, they may eat less food, which can lead to weight loss over time. It is recommended to begin at the lowest dose of 0.25 milligrams subcutaneously once weekly for the first four weeks to avoid unwanted side effects. “If we can identify ahead of time whether somebody will respond or not, it could save people a lot of money,” Loos says. Those who ate in response to negative emotions only had short-term reductions in eating after taking the drugs. Some clues could explain why the gene might affect a person’s response to GLP-1 drugs. But for most people, obesity is thought to be polygenic, meaning it can originate from thousands of genetic variants. But if your extra weight doesn’t seem to be damaging your health, then your obesity probably isn’t a disease. To discover the true relationship between weight and health, Rubino led a Lancet Commission, published in January 2025, that set out to distinguish between different types of obesity. It doesn’t take into account a person’s muscle mass, blood sugar responses or heart health. For instance, most pregnant people should expect to gain a significant amount of extra weight to support their growing foetus, not attempt to lose it. About half of patients experience nausea, says Dr. Stanford, which is sometimes, but not always, accompanied with vomiting.However, weight loss from these older medicines was modest, helping people to lose (and keep off) around 5 to 10 percent of their body weight.1 2 3The social media influencer — whom Moakler shares with her ex-husband Travis Barker — has been open on her platforms about navigating body image issues and made a rather blunt but audacious declaration of why she chose to take the medication route.Aim for 8 glasses daily—your body will thank you!Prescription weight loss medications are not intended to be used in place of a healthy diet and exercise, but alongside.More importantly, how much can you lose on Wegovy, and how long does Wegovy take to work in real life?The Trainwreck star did not hold back when she called out celebrities for not being honest about using Ozempic as a weight loss tool during her June 8, 2023 appearance on Watch What Happens Live.The treatments of this nature act upon the hormones that govern blood sugar levels, metabolism, and appetite. This is particularly important as diabetes can often lead to kidney complications. This makes it a valuable option for individuals with type 2 diabetes who are at higher risk for these conditions. Administered as a weekly injection, Ozempic aids in lowering blood glucose levels, reducing appetite, and slowing gastric emptying. The greatest benefit of these medications is that they’re meant to help people. Dr. Van first went into obesity medicine because she “found that obesity was something that permeated somebody’s life in such a profound way in all aspects — psychologically, mechanically, medically.” Health Canada has approved Wegovy as a weight loss medication. Ozempic is a brand name semaglutide, a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. That’s likely partly why bariatric surgery patients experience a nine-year extension on their life expectancy, despite 30 percent of their weight loss coming from lean mass. The results come on the heels of new research estimating that the number of people living with diabetes will double by 2050, exceeding 1.3 billion worldwide. Nearly 70% of those who took the pill achieved a 10% reduction in body weight. Through proper guidance, consistent monitoring, and supportive lifestyle choices, Ozempic can play a valuable role in managing type 2 diabetes and contributing to overall health. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if Ozempic aligns with individual health needs and to discuss any potential risks, side effects, and interactions. For individuals with type 2 diabetes, regular physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity, while a nutrient-rich diet supports overall health. The majority of patients stop taking it. Or, “I took it, I lost a bunch of weight, but I don't want to stay on it.” 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. If you have bariatric surgery and your obesity is in remission, does that mean you don't have the disease? The body, however, does not experience this as a neutral change. Less food is consumed not because the body has become metabolically efficient, but because hunger cues are pharmacologically dampened. Employers and insurers debate coverage, while patients pay out‑of‑pocket sums that rival monthly rent. It works—at least in the narrow sense most people care about. Dry January: Why cutting out alcohol this month can boost your health, sleep, mood and more Medicare does not cover Wegovy or other weight loss drugs, and many insurers follow Medicare's lead.“These compounded versions aren’t the same and may act differently in the body than the FDA-approved semaglutide and tirzepatide and, thus, cause harm.”Suddenly quitting without a plan may lead to quick weight gain and other health problems."After discontinuation, the effects become smaller and harder to distinguish from pre-adoption spending patterns."Ozempic has become a household drug name over the past year after an army of people spoke out on social media about how the medication helped them lose weight.Dr. Van first went into obesity medicine because she “found that obesity was something that permeated somebody’s life in such a profound way in all aspects — psychologically, mechanically, medically.”Although Ozempic injections were not designed as a weight-loss drug, their dramatic effects on appetite suppression quickly caught attention.These side effects typically fade with time as your system gets used to the medication.Some people wonder if they need to change their eating habits or start exercising while on Ozempic.The comedian has been on the anti-Type 2 diabetes medication Mounjaro since late 2022. On TikTok, the hashtag #ozempic has 508.9 million views, with the hashtag #ozempicweightloss trailing behind with 189.4 million views. It was approved by the FDA for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in 2017 and then in 2021 for the treatment of obesity under a new name, Wegovy. “Exenatide never received approval for obesity because nobody at the time was thinking about obesity as a disease. There's also not enough data to recommend more frequent eye screening specifically for patients taking GLP-1 drugs, they add. The absolute risk was still low, but more than twice as many patients who took a GLP-1 developed neovascular AMD compared to people who didn't use the medication — 0.2% vs. 0.1%, the authors noted. Of those, 46,000 patients had taken a GLP-1 drug — semaglutide in most cases — for at least six months. Partly, this message was designed to right-set people’s expectations, as few lose much more than that (and keep it off) with lifestyle changes alone. In the past, weight loss interventions have focused on lifestyle modifications like calorie or macronutrient manipulation, exercise, and sometimes counseling. “So when people cut calories and weight goes down, these physiologic factors work against them.” In reality, people with obesity likely have as much willpower as anyone else. To manage diabetes or treat cancer, most people consider it normal and natural to combine lifestyle behaviors with prescription medicine. Moving your body isn’t just good for your heart—it supercharges your Ozempic weight loss! Our clinical team has found that patients who modify their diet while on Ozempic tend to lose more weight. Many patients achieve 10-15% total body weight reduction over the course of a year. Studies show a range of results across GLP-1 medications used for weight management. Possible signs of an overdose can include severe nausea, persistent vomiting, dizziness, or symptoms of low blood sugar, like shakiness, sweating, confusion, or a rapid heartbeat. If you need a higher semaglutide dose to continue losing weight, your provider may switch you to Wegovy®, which is approved for weight management at doses up to 2.4 mg. The dose will gradually increase to help your body adjust and reduce the likelihood of side effects like nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain. Because Ozempic® is approved to treat type 2 diabetes, it’s typically prescribed to people with that condition. Together, you and your doctor can discuss what optimal health looks like for you and figure out how to make it happen with a weight-focused plan. "We discourage arbitrary weight goals, and we celebrate health improvements," Saunders says. You're unlikely to get this level of care from med spas, online weight loss programs, or compounding pharmacies, which often bill themselves as a quick and easy way to access GLP-1s without the hassle of an office visit. With a strong foundation in patient care coordination, office operations, and protocol development, she brings a thoughtful and organized approach to supporting both patients and providers. DooÜ is not a pharmacy or a drug manufacturer.By using this website, you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Cortisol and insulin are two hormones that play a complex role in weight management. People who haven't had access or the ability to take medication for this area, you know, may now have the opportunity to do so. But, yeah, how is this working out for people? So a lot of people - some groups of people are getting access to it but others are not. If the drug is stopped, does weight return? Ozempic allows weight loss without understanding weight gain. These symptoms are subtle at first, easily dismissed, and rarely linked back to a weight‑loss drug. The only anti-diabetic drugs that are approved for weight loss are Wegovy and Zepbound. Not only do drugs like Ozempic make you feel more satiated, but their effect on insulin can assist with weight loss as well. But it and other anti-diabetic drugs can be a good option for weight loss under the supervision of a doctor. Introducing Hot Shots, a series that examines how Ozempic and other GLP-1 drugs have transformed the way we think about our bodies, weight loss, and wellness. However, Messer would not prescribe it to certain types of people, including those with active gallstones, pancreatitis, anybody with an eating disorder, or those with a personal and family history of medullary thyroid cancer. “You have to look at your total body weight, your total muscle weight, fat weight, and water weight,” he explains. For women who are going through perimenopause or menopause, GLP-1 drugs might be helpful. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Sekhon cautions that going overboard and taking GLP-1 drugs when you don’t need them can actually negatively impact fertility. However, if dosage of the drugs is increased, a resurgence of symptoms may occur. How to Cope With a Diabetes Diagnosis Remember, there is no such thing as a standard "healthy weight" for everyone, and body mass index (BMI) is also not an accurate indicator of what is healthy or not. Research has shown that media exposure, such as the trend and glorification of taking Ozempic as a weight loss drug, can increase the risk of disordered eating behaviors and symptoms.11 People have begun to misuse this medication to lose weight, especially those with eating disorders like bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa. As demand grows among those seeking weight loss, shortages of the drug are making it difficult for diabetics, who rely on Semaglutide to manage their condition, to access the medication. As more South Africans turn to medical interventions for weight loss, Semaglutide – originally developed as a treatment for type 2 diabetes (T2D) under the brand name Ozempic® – has gained rapid recognition. Some people taking Ozempic also experience weight loss, but the version of semaglutide approved for that purpose is Wegovy. Ozempic improves insulin secretion, leading to better blood sugar management, and also results in weight loss due to its impact on appetite. So, although Ozempic is the current reigning brand of the weight loss drug world, it may be ousted in time. Like Ozempic and other newer weight loss medicines, liraglutide mimics glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), but it’s less effective than the newer medicines. In people with obesity, the body quickly breaks down endogenous (natural) GLP-1, making it less effective. Doctors typically recommend it for adults with type 2 diabetes who need better blood sugar control. Many people interested in Ozempic are looking for effective ways to control their diabetes or manage obesity alongside other treatments. The former talk show host referred to her weight loss in the caption, writing, "I can't believe this is me now" alongside the hashtags "#mounjaro, "#weightloss," and "#bodydismorphia." The amount of weight you can lose with Ozempic® depends on various factors such as the dose of the medication, length of treatment, your lifestyle changes, and how well you tolerate the side effects. However, as a result of clinical trials and studies, it was discovered that the drug was not only effective in controlling blood sugar levels, but it also produced significant weight loss in obese individuals. Ozempic® is a medication that is designed to help individuals lose weight and manage their blood sugar levels. “It’s helped a lot of people who have type 2 diabetes, which is driven by insulin resistance, and it’s helped a lot of people with weight loss who have traditionally struggled with other measures,” Sekhon says. Compared to GLP-1 drugs or Ozempic, studies show that you can lose more weight, with fewer side effects, on these double agonists, Messer says. Drinking plenty of fluids can help prevent dehydration and maintain overall health. Common side effects of Ozempic include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal, particularly at the start of treatment or when increasing the dosage. We have GLP-1 receptors all over our body and what these medications do is activate GLP-1 receptors. So, what’s going to happen with the millions of people taking these GLP-1 drugs? We will have to understand who may or may not respond, and for what patients the drugs may be unsafe to take. You have patients who have profound weight loss, and patients who do not. The obesity clinical trials clearly show these medications are effective. Your 6-Week Ozempic Guide: Lose Weight Faster With Fewer Side Effects On the flip side, you may need to switch to metformin if you can't tolerate Ozempic's side effects or if the price is too high. If you have severe diabetes, you may need to take metformin and Ozempic at the same time. Metformin is more likely to be covered by health insurance, says Ponder. While it was first created and approved to help manage type 2 diabetes, many people are now using it to lose weight—even those who do not have diabetes. Ozempic has become one of the most talked-about medications for weight loss in recent years. If a person develops side effects or new health concerns, the doctor may adjust the dose or stop the medication. One of the largest studies was the STEP trial program, which followed people for over a year while they used semaglutide for weight loss. Some people now take Ozempic to help with weight loss, even if they don’t have diabetes. Dr. Kumar has lectured internationally on the topic of the medical assessment and treatment of obesity. And if you truly value and cherish your friends and family who have struggled with their health and weight, you'll realize just how much they've invested in themselves — and recognize it's a lot deeper than before and after photos on Instagram. Ozempic is essentially “cheating” and if you can’t lose weight solely through lifestyle changes, you’re not trying hard enough — you deserve what you get. We've heard all kinds of prominent people talk about taking versions of these drugs at this point. But what we saw was in 2021, Wegovy from Novo Nordisk gets approved for - as an obesity treatment, and it's shown that it can take off about 15% of a person's body weight, which is quite a lot. So how did it go from, oh, it's helping diabetics lose weight as a side effect, to being the most sought-after weight-loss drug in the world? They started studying this higher dose version for weight loss specifically. We're doing studies here on the combination of semaglutide with cagrilintide, which is going to come out in a number of years. There's another study that shows it helps reduce symptoms in people with heart failure. So for most people, they can't take the medicine, because they can't afford it. That gets to the core challenge here, which is these medicines cost between $1,000 and $1,300 a month, so people typically cannot pay for them out-of-pocket. The most useful thing is if they have insurance coverage for semaglutide or tirzepatide. These signs mean you need to get medical help quickly. Gallbladder problems, like gallstones, can also happen in some people. Other stomach-related side effects, like bloating, gas, and heartburn, are usually mild but can be annoying. It often gets better after a few weeks as the body gets used to the medicine. Some people feel a little queasy, while others may feel like throwing up. Journalist Johann Hari, who lost 42 pounds with Ozempic, calls the drugs a powerful tool, but also “a mass experiment, carried out on millions of people, and I am one of the guinea pigs.” Ozempic and Wegovy are expensive with a list price of about $1,000 a month when not covered by insurance, but more patients than ever may be able to afford the prescription drugs. Other people are microdosing semaglutide — taking much smaller doses than recommended — to save money and for other reasons, though many doctors warn against the practice. Ozempic started the weight-loss drug frenzy, and it continues to be a famous name in the fight against obesity, even though it's not approved for that purpose. This results in even more impressive results—about 20% body weight loss in clinical trials! While Ozempic® is not approved by the FDA for weight loss, research has shown that drugs in the GLP-1 agonist class, like Ozempic®, can have an impact on weight loss. It works by improving blood sugar control and reducing the risk of heart disease in people with diabetes. “If you’re overweight and you lose some body weight, it’s going to help mitigate insulin resistance,” Sekhon says. Most side effects are not dangerous, but some can be serious. But like all medicines, it can cause side effects. Most people begin at 0.25 mg, then move up to 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and possibly 2 mg. While Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes, some doctors prescribe it off-label for weight management. Ozempic is not suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as a personal or family history of thyroid cancer. Accessing care for medications like Ozempic can be challenging due to busy schedules, limited local providers, or concerns about in-person visits. If side effects persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider promptly. And so they say, we have this long track record of using them in people with diabetes. They can't just study these drugs for a couple of months or even a year. Have there been any long-term studies on use of these drugs? People who are getting on these medications are doing it typically because they don't have better options, right? And that's, you know, not what these drugs were developed for. We cannot control which specific patients receive our prescription-only medicines. If you are interested in a medicine which is FDA approved for chronic weight management from Novo Nordisk, learn more here. At this time, Novo Nordisk has not conducted studies to evaluate the effect on weight after discontinuation of Ozempic®. That's why it is important to talk to your health care professional about any questions you may have about your treatment plan. That helps treat type 2 diabetes, Dr. Shah says. When you take Ozempic, it activates GLP-1 receptors in your body, causing an increase in insulin. Mir Ali, MD, is a bariatric surgeon and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California. The vast majority of them — 129 million — qualify to take it for weight loss based on their BMI and weight-related complications like high blood pressure. People have been showing off their before-and-after when taking Ozempic and other weight-loss drugs, especially their slimmer bodies thanks to a curbed appetite and eating less. Science shows that weight-loss medications should be combined with lifestyle changes. Franklin has type 2 diabetes and takes Ozempic®. Maria has type 2 diabetes and takes Ozempic®.Paid spokesperson of Novo Nordisk. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions about your health or treatment. "People don't understand that being fat is not a choice. It's something that you're body is out of whack and this puts your body in whack."That's why it is important to talk to your health care professional about any questions you may have about your treatment plan.Ozempic and its sister drug Wegovy are currently administered as once-weekly injections, which can make them costlier and more intimidating than an oral alternative.Let's dive into a journey that’s about more than just calorie counts and the next big diet trend—it’s about embracing the joy of eating with mindful eating.All the recommended medications have distinct benefits in the process of attaining sustainable weight loss.“If somebody is underweight to start with, they definitely should not be losing weight," he says. "And if they’re in the healthy weight range, then they probably shouldn’t lose weight.” Since Danielle was considered obese, her doctor prescribed the semaglutide injection, Ozempic, off-label. Once in the programme, you’ll have regular access to a team of health professionals who are here to listen, guide and help unlock a healthier you. Our app provides easy step-by-step goals around nutrition and movement, designed to support your muscle mass on the medication. But weight-loss surgeries are major operations that can lead to a range of complications, from nausea and pain, all the way to blood clots and stomach leaks. As a bariatric surgeon, Rubino operates on people with obesity to physically alter their digestive system – for instance, by reducing the size of the stomach – so they feel fuller and eat less. “We normally think we should prescribe weight loss, but we can’t,” says Rubino. However, you may decide that the benefits of weight loss are not worth the potential risks. Menopause and perimenopause are risk factors for increasing abdominal adiposity in women, and that’s why you get increased risk of metabolic health disease, said Poddar. With this condition and those patients shouldn’t be on Ozempic. Ur said there are only a few dozen people in B.C. Common side effects are mild to moderate and include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and constipation. “The system exploits people’s appetite and manipulates their appetite so that they become overweight. Physicians say society needs to move away from the idea that overweight people are behaving badly or that they have less willpower than everyone else. And it can help with the complications of weight, things like diabetes, heart disease, even certain cancers,” said Ur. It helps to manage blood sugar by stimulating insulin release when needed, slowing digestion to promote fullness, reducing sugar production by the liver, and decreasing appetite. As the cost comes down for semaglutide and more people have access to it, many B.C. Mental health support, like talking with a counselor, may also help during this time. Support from healthcare providers, family, or friends can make a big difference. These feelings are normal, but they can make it harder to stay focused on healthy habits. But gaining weight back can feel frustrating or disappointing. Losing weight often brings more confidence, energy, and motivation. Patients without type 2 diabetes achieved higher weight loss outcomes than those with type 2 diabetes, which is also shown in our study.19Plus, Juniper is the only medicated weight loss programme focused on fat loss and muscle maintenance.Guo’s study looked at electronic health records from patients in Florida from January 2014 to June 2023 and focused on people aged 50 or older with Type 2 diabetes and no prior diagnosis of dementia.To do this, the researchers looked at the health of 215,000 people with Type 2 diabetes between 2017 and 2023 maintained by the U.S.Additionally, GLP-1s improve insulin sensitivity, which helps regulate blood sugar.University Hospitals nurse practitioner Katie O’Boyle, CNP, a certified specialist in obesity and weight management, helps breaks down the facts about Ozempic.Plateaus emerge naturally as the body adapts to lower weight.To minimize them, your doctor will usually start you on a low dose and gradually increase it. The rapid rise in blood sugar levels caused by consuming sugar can make it difficult to control these conditions and counteract the benefits of Ozempic®. This leads to a gradual increase in blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of spikes and dips, and improving overall blood glucose control. By reducing elevated blood sugar levels, Ozempic®, in conjunction with lifestyle changes such as increased exercise, helps prevent the liver from storing excess sugar and fat. However, if blood sugar levels remain high for too long, the liver may also store excess energy in the form of fat. This glycogen can then be released when blood sugar levels drop or in response to exercise. "I tried Ozempic and it didn't work for me," she shared in an April 2024 episode of her misSPELLING podcast, "so I went on Mounjaro, which did do the trick and I did lose weight." "After 40, we all know it's very, very hard to lose weight," she said in the May 22 episode of her podcast Uncut & Uncensored With Caroline Stanbury. "I tried everything," Lizzo told host Trisha Paytas during a June 2025 episode of the Just Trish podcast, before explaining why she wound up ditching GLP-1 medications early on in her journey. This pairs with why people gain weight off it. This is close to the biggest health problem out there. 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. I think we're looking at a future where you may be taking multiple drugs or combination drugs, either injection or pill, that hit up on these multiple hormones. It doesn't make sense to me because we just don't know enough about these drugs and the benefits versus the potential risks long-term. “That’s not what the medication was designed for.” Tools for Practice articles in Canadian Family Physician are adapted from peer-reviewed articles at and summarize practice-changing medical evidence for primary care. Weight was regained on medication discontinuation. About 75% had gastrointestinal side effects, but few discontinued treatment. Taking too much Ozempic can increase your risk of serious side effects, such as hypoglycemia. So while a person may not develop obesity, they might have genetic vulnerability, and in that case the food environment doesn’t help. She added that just because there’s a history of obesity in the family doesn’t mean it will be passed down either. “The complicated part of genetics is it’s not just one gene that’s typically involved, it’s multiple genes. However, you probably won’t continue to lose weight at the same rapid pace you experienced during the first year.❌ Individuals seeking significant weight loss (bariatric surgery may be a better option).Learn more about Ozempic® side effects and get the complete safety info for Ozempic.On the opposite end of the spectrum, Sekhon cautions that going overboard and taking GLP-1 drugs when you don’t need them can actually negatively impact fertility.Instead, Wegovy, a similar medication containing the same active ingredient (semaglutide), is specifically approved by the FDA for weight loss.Deborah Horn, DO, director of obesity medicine, UTHealth Houston.This is an impressive amount of weight loss ― something we have not seen with previous weight loss drugs. It’s important to monitor your health regularly while on Ozempic and report any severe symptoms to a medical professional right away. However, if symptoms persist, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider. When placed alongside other medications or treatments like orlistat or phentermine, Ozempic tends to show more sustainable long-term outcomes. The growing demand for effective weight loss drugs has led to breakthroughs in medical science, offering new hope for individuals struggling with obesity and weight management. A drug that outperforms placebo in helping people to lose weight is one of a growing number of next-generation obesity drugs being produced in China. Many people tend to use the term Ozempic as a “catch all” for GLP-1 weight-loss medications, but it’s not actually approved for weight loss. Trunzo adds that over-reliance on weight loss medications is problematic since people may be of the mindset that, because they’re taking this drug, they don't have to make other lifestyle changes. We want to make sure that these drugs actually do improve people's health and they don't just help people lose weight, right? The Golden Globes host fiercly defended the use of Ozempic in March 2025, calling for people to be more open about using the medication. “I started the weight loss shots,” she wrote on her Instagram Stories in April 2025. Former Girls Next Door star Kendra Wilkinson gave one unnamed weight loss injectable a shot. "I cant believe this is me now," Rosie wrote on her Instagram, "#mounjaro #weightloss #bodydismorphia." So, if you’re preparing for surgery or to undergo disease treatment, now might not be the best time to go on a strict weight loss diet. For instance, some people may experience joint pain – especially on the knees, hips and back – because of extra strain caused by their weight and posture. Rather than treating fat as the enemy, they say it’s time to rethink its role in the body. Ecnoglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist analogue, similar to the blockbuster obesity drug semaglutide. At first, Chinese pharmaceutical companies rushed to make similar versions of blockbuster weight-loss drugs, such as Wegovy and Ozempic, that have taken the world by storm. I would encourage patients to seek more information to understand if they would be good candidates for these medications. What would you say to patients who are interested in these drugs but may be feeling ashamed to ask about them? Ozempic (semaglutide) has generally been considered safe and effective for its approved uses when prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional. When administered, Ozempic binds to GLP-1 receptors, triggering a cascade of effects that help regulate blood glucose levels and appetite. This injectable drug works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), which is naturally produced in the body. The two medicines act differently to manage blood sugar. They both lower blood sugar, but they work differently. Metformin (Fortamet, Glumetza) and semaglutide (Ozempic, Rybelsus) are medicines that treat type 2 diabetes. She is obees and it will be good for her to lose weight. But she slammed the constant obsession over her weight as it changed over her decades-long career.“When you’re a teenager, you have a very different body than when you’re in your 20s,” she told Glamour last August. Another point to remember is that while the drug treats obesity, obesity and general disordered issues with food are often related to underlying emotional issues (see the extensive work on this issue by psychotherapist Susie Orbach). I felt like I finally had my health under control and wasn't in crisis anymore, a sense of euphoria that I could hold on to some semblance of freedom that I never fully realized I had until it was almost taken away — I wasn’t going to be bound to insulin shots. But it turns out, as recent research has confirmed, that COVID-19 may also increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. Diabetes runs deep in my family, and since I have spent almost seven years covering nearly every medical condition under the sun as a journalist, I knew what I was in for when the doctor confirmed my diagnosis eight days later. I was going to find out if my body was producing insulin as it should, or if I would need regular, painful insulin injections, joining the more than 8 million Americans who rely on these shots to survive. Instead, I was more worried about the results of the HbA1C test (a blood test to measure your average blood glucose levels over the last 3 months) that were going to be in soon. This hormone helps manage blood sugar levels, but it also helps control hunger. Studies show that it works well over time, but people often regain weight if they stop. Ozempic can be used long-term to help with weight loss and weight maintenance. How much weight can I lose with Wegovy? The effectiveness of Ozempic for weight loss is supported by robust scientific evidence. This article explores how Ozempic works for weight loss, what the research says, and what you should consider before starting treatment. Let's delve into seven key lifestyle factors that can significantly influence your weight loss efforts. In this guide, we break down what happens month by month so you know exactly what changes to expect on your Wegovy weight loss journey. Ozempic lowers blood sugar levels and suppresses appetite by signalling to the brain that you've had a meal, which is helpful for weight management. But, with negative press surrounding Ozempic, and the persistent shortages of this medication, you might be wondering what the deal is with Ozempic weight loss. We definitely need clinical trials to determine the safest and most effective approach to medical weight loss in the setting of cancer treatment. Pfizer is also studying an oral medication that can induce weight loss for people with obesity and diabetes, called danuglipron, also a GLP-1 antagonist.Ozempic® is proven to lower blood sugar and A1C along with diet and exerciseSo, if you’re preparing for surgery or to undergo disease treatment, now might not be the best time to go on a strict weight loss diet.Understanding GLP-1s for diabetes, weight loss, and beyond.The vast majority of obese patients never got effective treatment because there wasn't effective treatment, or the treatment had more significant side effects. "Ozempic can lead to a loss in facial fat specifically, which unfortunately can cause your skin to sag. And dermatologists have become pretty good at spotting this." This is why many people end up needing filler and Botox. "Either way, if you do decide to go the ozempic route, it is so important to make sure that you're eating enough protein. This is going to help you hold onto your muscle mass. And like I said, this is even more important when you're taking Oozempic." "Semaglutide, which is the active ingredient in ozempic, increases the amount of insulin your pancreas releases and decreases the release of glucagon," she continues. Paunel Vukasinov, MD, internist and obesity medicine specialist, Medical Offices of Manhattan, New York City. Mir Ali, MD, bariatric surgeon, medical director, MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center, Fountain Valley, California. “We usually go up a dose every month,” he says. “But, for most people, it takes a few weeks.” “Some people who are more sensitive to it can start seeing results right away,” he says. Ozempic is designed to be started at the lowest dose and then gradually ramped up to get the desired effect, Dr. Ali explains. GLP-1 drugs lower blood sugar only when it's high, unlike insulin, which works regardless of glucose levels. For people with type 2 diabetes, controlling blood sugar levels is essential to preventing complications like nerve damage, kidney disease, and heart problems. These medications mimic a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and appetite.