More studies are needed to find out if this is an adverse effect only in patients with diabetes or if people taking GLP-1 drugs for weight loss are also at risk, VanderBeek added. People without diabetes generally lose a higher percentage of body weight on semaglutide than people with type 2 diabetes, largely because non‑diabetic trials use the 2.4 mg obesity dose (marketed as Wegovy) and pair it with structured lifestyle programs. Doctors say the drug’s effects on the body can make people with obesity healthier. She tells patients that the long-term safety of GLP-1 drugs isn’t known for sure, but doctors do have long-term experience with this class of medications. A concise, lay explanation of this first‑month signal—plus the typical ~2 kg by month two as dosing steps up—also underscores that results accelerate after escalation. A realistic first‑month pace is modest because you’re still titrating and focusing on tolerability. Side‑effect management and consistency matter here to keep adherence high and activity levels up.• 12 months. As you stabilize on a maintenance dose (commonly 1.0–2.0 mg), the pace of loss often strengthens compared with the earliest weeks. While shedding pounds is the most visible effect of Ozempic, its benefits extend far beyond what you see on the scale. This info helps your doctor tweak your treatment plan for maximum benefit with minimum discomfort. Keep a symptom diary, especially when starting Ozempic or changing doses. Many folks experience plateaus after a few months. Many of our patients see better outcomes when they take a comprehensive approach.Having support can increase your weight loss by up to 25%.Meanwhile, a 2025 study found GLP-1 drugs, including semaglutide, “probably have little or no effect” on a person’s risk of developing obesity-related cancers.With what’s known now, the three doctors say they’re comfortable prescribing semaglutide long-term for weight loss for a patient eligible for the medication.There's no cause for alarm, since the overall risk in terms of how many people are potentially affected is still very small, experts say.Some need slower titration due to side effects, delaying peak effects.Starting semaglutide is a commitment to stay on it long term, McGowan says. Energy levels rise as weight decreases, supporting more activity. Studies indicate steady weekly reductions of 1-2 pounds once stabilized. Small, consistent changes amplify the medication’s impact during this foundational period. Side effects like nausea may temper early enthusiasm but usually ease. This equals roughly pounds for someone at 200 pounds. Semaglutide reaches steady levels in the body after several weeks due to weekly dosing. When paired with mindful eating, the effects build progressively. This guide draws from clinical studies and real experiences to map out what to expect month by month. The No. 1 Fruits Highest in Protein, Magnesium, Potassium, Calcium and More When using Ozempic to treat diabetes, weight loss is a common side effect. It is not approved for weight loss, but some physicians prescribe it to be used for weight loss. Do health experts recommend Ozempic for weight loss purposes? This results in even more impressive results—about 20% body weight loss in clinical trials! It’s like Ozempic’s bigger sibling focused primarily on weight loss rather than diabetes. By activating GLP-1 receptors, semaglutide helps regulate insulin and glucagon and modestly slows digestion—MedlinePlus notes it “slows the emptying of the stomach and may decrease appetite”—which often reduces calorie intake and supports weight loss while on therapy.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.With maintenance doses, weekly losses of 1-3 pounds become common for many.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.Try cutting about 500 calories from your daily intake—this simple change can add another pound of weight loss per week!About one-third of people lose around 10% of their body weight, while others achieve the impressive 15-20% reduction mentioned in recent studies. What is the average weight loss in the first 3 months on Ozempic? Instead, talk to your health care provider about starting Wegovy for weight loss. However, Wegovy contains higher doses of it and is designed for weight loss. It's important that people continue to make lifestyle changes to help their weight loss, such as eating right and exercising. The active ingredient in Ozempic, semaglutide, does work for weight loss, according to research. It’s not unusual for doctors to prescribe Ozempic off-label for weight loss, Hurtado Andrade says. Semaglutide in pill form is in the works and may be appealing to more people when it's approved. GLP-1 drugs — which include Ozempic and its sister drug Wegovy, as well as Mounjaro and Zepbound — mimic at least one hormone produced by the gut to signal fullness, leading to a reduced appetite. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or medication. Early Phase: First 4-12 Weeks on Ozempic In clinical studies, patients lost an average of 1-2 pounds weekly, potentially reaching 10-15% of body weight over a year. Research shows people lose approximately 1kg (2.2 pounds) in the first month of treatment, and about 2kg by the second month. Some studies found slightly different numbers, with weight loss ranging from 1kg (2.2 pounds) to 5 pounds monthly. While Ozempic wasn’t originally designed as a weight loss drug (it’s actually for Type 2 diabetes), the scale results have got everyone talking. They both contain the same active ingredient semaglutide. Research has shown that if you stop taking Ozempic (or Wegovy), it's likely that you will gain back the weight you lost. It also slows digestion by increasing the time it takes for food to leave the body. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in adults with type 2 diabetes. In the STEP‑1 extension, people who discontinued 2.4 mg semaglutide after 68 weeks regained about two‑thirds of their prior weight loss over the next year, underscoring obesity’s chronic nature and the need for an ongoing plan.Behavioral changes, such as mindful eating, reinforce medication effects.Ozempic was actually created as a diabetes medication first.When patients take it regularly, we typically see A1C levels drop by 1-2% on average.This guide draws from clinical studies and real experiences to map out what to expect month by month.Small, slower meals; avoid greasy foods during titration; pause escalation if GI effects disrupt intake.Millions of patients are now using these medications, so it’s conceivable a rare, previously unidentified side effect may appear, but overall, “the concern is low that something new or unusual will emerge,” McGowan says. Ozempic and Health Beyond Weight Loss But it's important to monitor patients for any problems and pay attention to symptoms, they add. Some of the newest research has focused on how the medication might impact vision. Gastroparesis is not mentioned in the prescribing information for Ozempic or Wegovy, but delayed gastric emptying is mentioned for each drug. Weight loss that resulted from the drug was probably "a major contributor" since it led to less stress on the knee joints, the authors wrote. The company didn't address the arthritis risk finding specifically, but said it welcomes independent research investigating the safety, efficacy and clinical utility of its products. Some folks respond more dramatically to GLP-1 medications like Ozempic than others. Your starting dose makes a huge difference—doctors typically start low and increase gradually to minimize side effects. Research shows most people see modest results in the first month, with continuing progress over time when combined with lifestyle changes. This led to “off-label” prescribing for obesity treatment, which is perfectly legal though not officially endorsed. Novo Nordisk originally developed it for Type 2 diabetes management, which remains its primary FDA-approved use. Many of our patients ask about realistic weight loss expectations with this medication. Some medications available through this service may be compounded drugs, which are customized formulations prepared by a pharmacy. Trial syntheses of early semaglutide use suggest about ~1 kg (~1.1%) by the end of month one on average, with substantial individual variation tied to dose, side effects, and adherence. A landmark placebo‑controlled trial reported mean losses approaching the mid‑teens (% body weight) at 68 weeks on 2.4 mg weekly, illustrating the upper end of what the class can achieve when maximally dosed and supported (note that this differs from Ozempic’s lower diabetes doses). With close monitoring by a health care provider, paying attention to any problems and periodically reassessing whether patients still need to be on the drug, “we can do this safely,” Low Wang says. Four years after starting semaglutide, patients maintained an average weight loss of 10% of their body weight, a peer-reviewed 2024 study funded by Novo Nordisk found. There's also growing interest among women to take GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide — the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy — for weight loss while breastfeeding after giving birth. “Most people have understood Ozempic as kind of a catch-all for the GLP-1 class of medications,” Dr. Christopher McGowan, a gastroenterologist who runs a weight loss clinic in Cary, North Carolina, tells TODAY.com. The medication works on multiple aspects of metabolic health that can dramatically improve quality of life. This can boost your risk of side effects without improving results. Your body’s clever—it adapts to the medication over time. Our patients often tell us the nausea is worst right after increasing their dose. The study didn't specify which GLP-1 medications were included in the research, but "it is reasonable to assume that semaglutide was among them," Novo Nordisk said in a statement. Still, "dietary protein should be a priority to help preserve muscle mass" in people taking GLP-1 medications, experts urged in a 2025 advisory published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Currently available data on body composition do not indicate an association of greater lean body mass loss over fat mass loss with semaglutide treatment, Novo Nordisk says. Obesity is a risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease, cancer and mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, Hurtado Andrade adds. But, "practically, insurance companies will not cover Ozempic for the treatment of overweight or obesity," she clarifies. Many of our patients find these incredibly helpful for staying on track with their Ozempic journey. Join a weight management program or support group. Exercise helps preserve muscle mass while you’re losing weight. With monitoring and commitment, Ozempic helps reclaim health one step at a time. Individual timelines differ based on factors like dose and lifestyle. Success ties to consistent dosing, healthy habits, and provider guidance. Rare serious effects warrant prompt reporting. Some need slower titration due to side effects, delaying peak effects. Obesity often requires ongoing treatment, and most people “will have difficulty sustaining weight loss” after stopping the medication, Novo Nordisk says. "These adverse events, although rare, must be considered by patients who are contemplating using the drugs for weight loss," the authors wrote. Meanwhile, a 2025 study found GLP-1 drugs, including semaglutide, “probably have little or no effect” on a person’s risk of developing obesity-related cancers. This stage is still “building momentum,” not the peak.• 6 months. If adherence and tolerability are good—and basic nutrition, movement, and sleep habits are in place—cumulative loss typically reaches a few percent of starting weight. Many people are finishing titration (often reaching 1.0 mg weekly). To learn what we do to deliver the best health and lifestyle insights to you, Check out our content review principles. That’s why we always recommend working closely with healthcare providers throughout your journey. Your body composition, metabolism, and genetics play important roles too. Not everyone sheds pounds at the same rate, and there’s a good reason for that! That’s a significant transformation for someone struggling with excess weight. Many of our patients report they simply don’t think about food as much anymore—quite the relief! Food and Drug Administration, while Wegovy is approved specifically for weight management in people with obesity or those who are overweight and have a complication like high blood pressure. In December 2025, the World Health Organization recommended the long-term use of GLP-1 drugs — along with intensive behavioral therapy — for people living with obesity. 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.” However, doctors quickly noticed the impressive weight loss side effects. Ozempic wasn’t actually approved for weight loss initially. GLP-1 medications like Ozempic are proper little multi-taskers in your body! Some patients report even better results—up to 5 pounds monthly. Stomach However, patients who may be at higher risk for wet age-related macular degeneration, such as older adults, should be aware of the possibility of new visual symptoms.” There's no cause for alarm, since the overall risk in terms of how many people are potentially affected is still very small, experts say. Semaglutide is not approved in the U.S. for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis, the company notes. In the 2025 RAND survey, about half of patients taking a GLP-1 drug said they experienced nausea and one-third experienced diarrhea. Semaglutide is a synthetic version of a hormone known as GLP-1, which the body releases into the intestine when people eat food, as TODAY.com previously reported. At this time, there's no evidence to suggest patients in their 20s, 30s or 40s should stop taking a GLP-1 drug because of the risk of wet age-related macular degeneration, which is exceedingly rare in anyone under 50, the authors note. The risk was more than three times as high among patients who had been taking a GLP-1 drug the longest, the study found. People who take GLP-1 medications may be at an increased risk of severe stomach problems such as gastroparesis, research published in JAMA in 2023 found. A spokesperson for the company noted that gastroparesis is a known risk for people with diabetes and that "patient safety is of utmost importance to Novo Nordisk." In 2023, Novo Nordisk was sued by a woman with Type 2 diabetes who alleged Ozempic was among medications that caused gastroparesis, or stomach paralysis. Typical Results from Clinical Trials Around three months, many reach 0.5-1 mg doses where effects peak for diabetes management and weight control.That’s a significant transformation for someone struggling with excess weight.While Ozempic wasn’t originally designed as a weight loss drug (it’s actually for Type 2 diabetes), the scale results have got everyone talking.“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.More studies are needed to find out if this is an adverse effect only in patients with diabetes or if people taking GLP-1 drugs for weight loss are also at risk, VanderBeek added.If you’re close to ~1% by the end of the first month while tolerating medication and building habits, you’re on track for the steeper part of the curve later. 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. Averages range from 10-15% of starting body weight in typical doses. Clinical data and real experiences show about 5-10% body weight reduction, or roughly pounds for many. After six months, weight loss often plateaus or slows but continues with persistence. Scale changes typically appear by weeks 4-8, with 2-10 pounds lost in the first month. Behavioral changes, such as mindful eating, reinforce medication effects. Starting weight plays a big role—higher BMI often means more initial pounds lost. But what does the research say about this use of the drug? The medication addresses the root metabolic dysfunction rather than just treating symptoms. The medication mimics a hormone called GLP-1, which helps your pancreas release insulin when blood sugar levels rise. When patients take it regularly, we typically see A1C levels drop by 1-2% on average. Try cutting about 500 calories from your daily intake—this simple change can add another pound of weight loss per week! Our clinical team has found that patients who modify their diet while on Ozempic tend to lose more weight. While Ozempic can help with weight loss, combining it with lifestyle changes can really boost your results. Many patients experience more rapid loss in the first few months, followed by a plateau where progress slows. We’ve noticed that weight loss rarely follows a straight line. The medication works gradually, which is actually a good thing for your body’s adjustment. Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, belongs to a class of medications that mimic a hormone called GLP-1. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Millions of patients are now using these medications, so it’s conceivable a rare, previously unidentified side effect may appear, but overall, “the concern is low that something new or unusual will emerge,” McGowan says. “We’re putting you on a treatment that is treating the biological basis of the disease, and if you stop that medication, then you’re not going to have that effect, and you’re very likely to regain the weight back.” A previous study suggested people taking semaglutide may be at increased risk for this condition, described as "a stroke of the optic nerve." But people who notice any new changes in their vision while taking these medications should promptly inform their doctor or see an eye care specialist, they urge. There's also not enough data to recommend more frequent eye screening specifically for patients taking GLP-1 drugs, they add. McGowan’s biggest concern is that a patient will discontinue their medication, which can lead to weight regain and recurrence of hunger that “can be extreme,” he says. “The GLP-1 medications are designed to be used in one way and only one way, which is continuously. “Someone who’s considering taking a GLP-1 medication like semaglutide must plan to take it indefinitely,” he notes. Patients who experience sudden vision loss should stop taking the drugs and see a doctor immediately, Katz advised. "We take all reports about adverse events from use of our medicines very seriously. This also relates to eye conditions, which are well-known comorbidities for people living with diabetes." We cannot diagnose conditions, provide second opinions or make specific treatment recommendations through this website. However, an off-brand version of the drug has been seen at compounding pharmacies across the U.S. 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 One other difference is that Ozempic is typically covered by health insurance, while Wegovy is often not covered. 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. In the fall of 2025, Novo Nordisk, the pharmaceutical company that makes them announced a steep discount for select doses. While Ozempic can help with weight loss, it’s not all smooth sailing. Having support can increase your weight loss by up to 25%. We’ve noticed something interesting—patients who don’t go it alone lose more weight! Research has shown mixed results on cardiovascular health. These digestive issues usually improve after a few weeks as your body adjusts. Nausea tops the list, affecting many users especially when first starting treatment. Let’s look at what might happen when you take this medication and how to stay safe. Regular check-ins with healthcare providers are non-negotiable! Early observational data suggest that tapering off slowly with lifestyle support may help maintain weight for ~26 weeks rather than stopping abruptly, though this requires more rigorous study. Same‑day weekly dosing, site rotation, sleep regularity, and a brief weekly “metrics check” (weight, waist, steps) help adherence. Small, slower meals; avoid greasy foods during titration; pause escalation if GI effects disrupt intake. Pair 150 min/wk of moderate activity + 2 strength sessions to protect lean mass and improve metabolic health.• Meal structure. Distribute protein across meals and include fiber (veggies, beans, whole grains) to tame hunger between doses.• Hydration + electrolytes. FDA-Approved Uses and Off-Label Trends Several doctors interviewed by TODAY.com believe semaglutide needs to be taken for years, decades or possibly life. Data from clinical trials don't suggest a causal relationship between the drug and NAION, it added. When asked about the study, Novo Nordisk said it "remains confident in the benefit-risk profile of our GLP-1 medicines, when used consistent with their indications and product labeling." The findings are based on data from 139,000 Canadians who were at least 66 years old and were diagnosed with diabetes. This phase prioritizes body adaptation over rapid drops. Actual scale movement starts modestly, often 2-5 pounds in the initial four weeks. Many notice appetite changes within days to a week of the first 0.25 mg dose. Higher initial BMI often correlates with more pounds lost early on. Individual factors like starting weight and metabolism influence pace. It is not meant to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Many regain some or most lost weight without habits in place. Results accelerate as doses increase over time. Ozempic can help people lose weight, which can reduce the risk for many other serious health conditions, such as heart problems.People who take GLP-1 medications may be at an increased risk of severe stomach problems such as gastroparesis, research published in JAMA in 2023 found.Confused about all these similar-sounding medications?We’ve noticed that weight loss rarely follows a straight line.Learn about other weight loss medications that are availableRegular check-ins with healthcare providers are non-negotiable!Progress continues steadily into months two and three.“We’re putting you on a treatment that is treating the biological basis of the disease, and if you stop that medication, then you’re not going to have that effect, and you’re very likely to regain the weight back.”The active ingredient in Ozempic, semaglutide, does work for weight loss, according to research. Ozempic is a brand-name medication with semaglutide as its active ingredient. Starting a weight loss journey with Ozempic often brings hope mixed with curiosity about timing. It says there are no approved generic versions of these drug. Experts still recommend that people avoid using Ozempic unless they have type 2 diabetes. Semaglutide treatments can also be used as an alternative to bariatric surgery for some patients who are obese. 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. About 12% of Americans have taken one of these popular medications for weight loss, according to a 2025 report by RAND, a nonprofit research organization. The blockbuster medication is meant to treat Type 2 diabetes, but comes with weight loss as a celebrated side effect. 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. Find out if weight loss medications can actually help you lose weight However, semaglutide is approved for weight loss under the name Wegovy. Most people find these side effects bearable compared to the weight loss benefits, but chat with your doctor if they’re making life miserable. Research suggests most people lose around 1kg (2.2 lbs) or about 1.1% of their body weight after just one month on Ozempic. Average losses climb to 6-11% of body weight, often pounds from baseline. In the starting phase, the body adjusts to semaglutide while doses ramp up slowly. Early doses focus on adjustment, minimizing side effects while the drug accumulates. The FDA does not conduct premarket review for compounded drugs to evaluate their safety, effectiveness, or quality. Work with your prescriber on when to hold, extend a step, or escalate, based on side effects, glucose response, and progress toward your weight goals. Ozempic is titrated slowly to improve tolerability, which is why early weight loss is modest. If you’re close to ~1% by the end of the first month while tolerating medication and building habits, you’re on track for the steeper part of the curve later. On the obesity dose (2.4 mg), averages are higher and timelines longer (≈1 year+), so manage expectations accordingly and align dose, goals, and support plan with your clinician for sustainable results. Around three months, many reach 0.5-1 mg doses where effects peak for diabetes management and weight control. For years, people have been trying all sorts of methods and medications in search of the perfect weight loss solution. In the STEP‑1 extension, people who discontinued 2.4 mg semaglutide after 68 weeks regained about two‑thirds of their prior weight loss over the next year, underscoring obesity’s chronic nature and the need for an ongoing plan. In diabetes‑focused trials, higher weekly doses of semaglutide tend to produce greater weight reductions, with the 2.0 mg strength outperforming 1.0 mg and 0.5 mg once people reach and tolerate maintenance. With what’s known now, the three doctors say they’re comfortable prescribing semaglutide long-term for weight loss for a patient eligible for the medication. About one-third of people lose around 10% of their body weight, while others achieve the impressive 15-20% reduction mentioned in recent studies. Medical conditions and other medications might also affect how quickly you lose weight. Many patients achieve 10-15% total body weight reduction over the course of a year. By month two, that typically doubles to about 2kg (4.4 lbs) or 2.2% of body weight. Many patients ask us about what to expect when starting Ozempic for weight loss. Trials show averages of 14-17% reduction by 68 weeks in higher-dose semaglutide studies. Weight loss averages around 2-6% of starting body weight by week 12. With maintenance doses, weekly losses of 1-3 pounds become common for many. By the end of month one, average losses range from 2-12 pounds depending on response and habits. For weight loss, these combined actions create a calorie deficit without extreme dieting. Clinical data shows weight loss begins subtly in the first month, accelerating with dose increases. 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 can help people lose weight, which can reduce the risk for many other serious health conditions, such as heart problems. Ozempic has lower doses of semaglutide and was developed specifically for type 2 diabetes patients. Learn about weight loss medications, like Wegovy, and whether they're right for you 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. Growing evidence suggests GLP-1 drugs, including semaglutide, may reduce the craving for alcohol, helping people with addiction. Adults with obesity or who were overweight lost 15% of their body weight on average after taking Wegovy for one year and four months, according to Novo Nordisk. “Keeping in mind that obesity is at the core of many of these diseases, treating obesity can truly have a cascade effect of clinical benefits,” she notes. And along with that, other elements of their health then often get better, too,” Dr. Cecilia Low Wang, endocrinologist at UCHealth and professor at University of Colorado School of Medicine, tells TODAY.com. The medication also slows down stomach emptying, which may contribute to the feeling of fullness. It signals to the brain that you’ve had a meal, so patients have reduced appetite, and when they do eat, they feel full sooner. The medication addresses the root metabolic dysfunction rather than just treating symptoms.In clinical studies, patients lost an average of 1-2 pounds weekly, potentially reaching 10-15% of body weight over a year.While Ozempic can help with weight loss, combining it with lifestyle changes can really boost your results.It’s specifically approved for weight management.Medical conditions and other medications might also affect how quickly you lose weight.While shedding pounds is the most visible effect of Ozempic, its benefits extend far beyond what you see on the scale.Distribute protein across meals and include fiber (veggies, beans, whole grains) to tame hunger between doses.• Hydration + electrolytes.Side‑effect management and consistency matter here to keep adherence high and activity levels up.• 12 months."These adverse events, although rare, must be considered by patients who are contemplating using the drugs for weight loss," the authors wrote.Wegovy is a once-weekly injection approved by the FDA in 2021 for chronic weight management. NAION is a very rare eye disease, and it's not an adverse drug reaction listed on the labels for semaglutide in the form of Ozempic, Rybelsus and Wegovy, Novo Nordisk said in a statement. It's possible that the rapid correction of high blood sugar induced by GLP-1 drugs rather than a toxic effect "could be a possible mechanism for vision loss," the 2025 study noted. But the authors of both papers said they can't determine if the antidiabetic drugs cause eye complications until large clinical trials are done. The review featured four semaglutide patients who developed nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), an optic nerve injury that can cause blindness, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. "If this risk was carried over millions of users, those affected could end up being a sizable group of patients," VanderBeek noted. Real-world reports align with trials showing about 5-6% drop in three months. Progress continues steadily into months two and three. Dose escalation to 0.5 mg begins around week four, boosting effects. Ozempic offers solid results, especially for those with diabetes needs. Some extend treatment indefinitely under supervision for ongoing benefits. Sustained use maintains losses while improving heart health markers like blood pressure. By six months, some achieve 10-15% total loss with strong adherence. As a general health benchmark, the safe rate of loss is about 1–2 lb per week; that’s roughly 4–8 lb (≈2%–4%) per month depending on starting weight, consistent with CDC guidance on losing weight at a safe rate, which helps set expectations while you ramp. On antidiabetic doses of semaglutide (0.5–2.0 mg weekly), trial and real‑world summaries commonly land in the mid‑single‑digit to low double‑digit percent loss range over 6–12 months, assuming adherence and lifestyle support. By activating GLP-1 receptors, semaglutide helps regulate insulin and glucagon and modestly slows digestion—MedlinePlus notes it “slows the emptying of the stomach and may decrease appetite”—which often reduces calorie intake and supports weight loss while on therapy. Blood Sugar and A1C Improvements Some research participants lost around 15 pounds after three months and a whopping 27 pounds after six months of treatment. Research shows that people taking Ozempic can expect to lose approximately 5 pounds per month on average. Individual results may vary, and these medications should only be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. The typical ladder is 0.25 mg weekly for 4 weeks, then 0.5 mg for at least 4 weeks; if additional glycemic/weight benefit is needed and tolerated, many advance to 1.0 mg, and some to 2.0 mg as the maximum diabetes‑labeled dose. Focus on consistent dosing, protein‑forward meals, fiber, hydration, light daily movement, and sleep so your second month can compound gains without chasing aggressive deficits that risk side effects or dropout. The best use of this class of drug would be leveraging the window of opportunity provided by the drug to help patients to improve lifestyle for longevity and quality of life.” “I understand there is an argument that obesity is a chronic disease like hypertension, diabetes, and once you need to be on it, you should be on it for lifetime. But other doctors say more long-term data is needed before committing patients to this drug for life. Weight loss generally slows and plateaus, with further change depending on dose, diabetes status, and lifestyle inputs. A concise summary of one‑month Ozempic results also notes ~2 kg by month two and explains how dose escalation shapes early outcomes.• 3 months. Early averages are modest—about ~1 kg (~1.1% body weight), with wide person‑to‑person variability. A. Pawlowski is a TODAY health reporter focusing on health news and features. Combining Ozempic with Diet and Exercise for Faster Progress The medication helps your body process glucose more effectively throughout the day, reducing those frustrating spikes after meals. For context, every 1% reduction in A1C can slash the risk of diabetes complications by about 40%. Ozempic was actually created as a diabetes medication first. “(But) with semaglutide being out for this many years, so far nothing has emerged that’s been really new in terms of safety signals.” But I don’t think the data is there for the effectiveness of this class of drug on a long-term basis. Starting semaglutide is a commitment to stay on it long term, McGowan says. “It is a drug that we anticipate will require long-term use,” Hurtado Andrade adds. Obesity is a chronic condition that needs chronic treatment, just like high blood pressure does, Low Wang says. No safety signal been found so far when it comes to lean mass loss with semaglutide, it adds. Wegovy patients may also experience an increased heart rate, and depression or thoughts of suicide, the company says. Wegovy patients may also commonly experience headache, fatigue, upset stomach, dizziness, feeling bloated, belching, gas, stomach flu, heartburn, and runny nose or sore throat, Novo Nordisk notes. The most common side effects of Ozempic and Wegovy include nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation and vomiting, according to the manufacturer. “It’s not that GLP-1 does not reduce the risk of cancer; I don’t think we can make that conclusion from our study,” co-author Dr. Cho-Han Chiang told NBC News. Ozempic has become quite the hot topic in weight management circles. The weight-shedding journey isn’t identical for everyone, but these figures give you a ballpark idea of what might happen. Our programs include both the provider and medication, with no hidden fees or office visits. Our mission is to make treatment fast, easy, and affordable for everyone. At a safe pace (about 1–2 lb/week), many people would need 10–20 weeks. Aim for 8 glasses daily—your body will thank you! They work brilliantly with Ozempic’s appetite-suppressing effects. Many of our patients see better outcomes when they take a comprehensive approach. Some patients tell us they notice changes in appetite and cravings within the first week, even before seeing movement on the scale. Wegovy contains the same active ingredient (semaglutide) as Ozempic but at higher doses. Confused about all these similar-sounding medications? Our “My Type 2 Transformation” program participants often report needing less medication for other conditions after 3-6 months on Ozempic. It's the first drug approved for this purpose since 2014. Wegovy is a once-weekly injection approved by the FDA in 2021 for chronic weight management. Ozempic has a smaller dose of semaglutide than Wegovy. Ozempic, known generically as semaglutide, was approved in 2017 by the U.S. It’s specifically approved for weight management. This comprehensive approach explains why many healthcare providers now consider it a first-line treatment for patients with both conditions. We’ve seen remarkable transformations in our patients with both type 2 diabetes and obesity. Many of our patients report improved blood sugar readings within 2-4 weeks—often before significant weight loss occurs. If weight loss stalls, don’t just increase your dose without medical guidance. Moving your body isn’t just good for your heart—it supercharges your Ozempic weight loss! Earlier in 2025, a small study in JAMA Ophthalmology focused on eye complications experienced by nine people who took GLP-1 antidiabetic drugs, including semaglutide. "Semaglutide’s efficacy and safety have been extensively demonstrated in people with obesity/overweight with robust evidence for improving health outcomes," the company noted in a statement to TODAY.com. “GLP-1 drugs offer important benefits for cardiovascular health, kidney health and weight management, and those benefits remain very significant.