While studies have shown Ozempic can be beneficial to patients with weight-related conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, and those looking to lose substantial amounts of weight, there are risks associated, too
In this article we’ll cover:
- What Ozempic is and its uses
- The ways in which Ozempic causes you to lose weight
- How long it takes to lose weight on Ozempic
- Frequently asked questions.
Ready to learn more? Read on!
What Is Ozempic and What Is it Used for?
Ozempic is a prescription medication marketed by Novo Nordisk that was originally formulated to help regulate blood glucose levels in adults with type two diabetes. Its generic name is semaglutide.
Doses are administered by injection to a single site, which stimulates insulin production.
In addition to treatment of diabetes, it can be effective when used for long-term weight management. In fact, in this 2021 study, Ozempic (in conjunction with behavioral therapy and a low-calorie diet) was shown to significantly reduce the weight of obese adults. In the study, the drug was compared against a placebo.
Is Ozempic a Type of Insulin?
Ozempic is not a type of insulin. Its main ingredient, semaglutide, is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. This means that it mimics GLP-1, a hormone that naturally occurs in the human body and stimulates insulin production.
When the drug is administered, it activates a high level of insulin production, lowering your blood sugar content.
How Does Ozempic Cause You to Lose Weight?
High blood sugar causes glucose to be moved from your bloodstream to be stored in your cells, leading to weight gain. In excessive amounts, this can lead to obesity.
By lowering your blood sugar levels, this therefore leads to a decreased rate of weight gain, higher chance of weight loss, and a lower BMI on average.
GDP-1 also works in your body to decrease hunger signal responses, and increase your appetite’s satiety (feeling full and satisfied) after meals.
As Ozempic mimics the actions of GDP-1, it has these effects as well.
The combined effects of lower blood sugar and decreased hunger cues can then be two reasons you may be able to manage your weight when using Ozempic.
Is Ozempic a Stimulant?
Stimulants are drugs that increase the activity of the body’s nervous system, leading to greater energy expenditure and feelings of alertness. Caffeine, for example, is a type of stimulant.
While stimulant medication is often prescribed for weight loss, Ozempic does not fall under this classification as it works with your insulin production systems, not the central nervous system
How Long Will It Take Me to Lose Weight on Ozempic?
Unfortunately, there’s no way to predict a precise timeline for weight loss of any kind, as it depends on individual diet, exercise, and your metabolism.
However, according to study results, most people report effects after just a few weeks. It’s important to know that this is usually in conjunction with lifestyle changes
How Long Should I Take Ozempic?
Ozempic has not officially been approved by the HPFB as a weight loss medication on the market, only for the treatment of diabetes. However, other off-label semaglutide medication, such as Wegovy, has been.
Research has shown that a two milligram dose of semaglutide is in general safe for adults. However, in some rare cases, Ozempic could cause acute or chronic pancreatitis (when your pancreas swells), and should not be taken by those with a history of pancreatitis or thyroid cancer.
Remember that Ozempic’s availability in Canada is by prescription only, and should only be taken when prescribed to you by a medical professional.
You should also be aware that taking Ozempic for weight loss will likely not be covered by your insurance provider unless you are diabetic.
What are the Side Effects of Ozempic for Weight Loss
Some people taking Ozempic or other semaglutide medication have experienced side effects. These include, but are not limited to:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
- Sagging or aging of the skin on your face (known as “Ozempic face”).
There are also rare instances of more serious side effects, such as:
- Changes in vision
- Pancreatitis
- Gallbladder problems
- Allergic reactions.
Seek medical attention immediately if you are experiencing any of the above severe side effects after taking Ozempic.
Are There Any Foods or Medications I Should Avoid While Taking Ozempic for Weight Loss?
Ozempic may interfere with the absorption and processing time of orally administered medication. Be sure to consult with your medical team if you regularly rely on these medications.
It is also recommended to limit alcohol consumption when taking semaglutide medication, as it can have an effect on blood sugar levels.
People taking Bexarotene or Gatifloxacin are generally not advised to take Ozempic, due to the potentially serious drug interactions. There are also many other medications that may be more moderately impacted.
You can check your medication against Ozempic here, but always talk to a medical professional before stopping or starting any medication.
Key Takeaways
While the use of Ozempic can lead to weight loss, it is generally only prescribed as a treatment for type-2 diabetes. You can however use other semaglutide medications for weight loss.
Though these drugs have been shown to be an effective form of weight-management, they are not a permanent weight loss solution.
The most sustainable and safe way to lose weight is slowly, aiming for around 2 lbs a week. Any weight loss — with or without Ozempic — should be done carefully, consistently, and in combination with other lifestyle measures.
Ozempic is available by prescription only, and should only be taken on the advice of a medical professional.
How Can I Use Ozempic for the Best Results?
To get the best weight loss results from using Ozempic, you need to make sure you stick to following everything to the letter. Your doctor will advise you regarding doses, frequency and injection technique, and it’s important to follow these instructions carefully.
You also will need to combine using Ozempic with making lifestyle changes like improving your diet and getting regular exercise in order to get the full benefits of the medication.
Ozempic for Weight Loss FAQs
Is it good to take Ozempic for weight loss?
Ozempic is not officially approved as a weight loss drug. Similar medication can help, along with long term weight management, in some cases.
How much weight can i lose in a month after taking ozempic?
How much weight you can lose on Ozempic varies greatly from person to person. However, the results of one clinical trial saw participants lose around one kilogram a month on a semaglutide (generic Ozempic) treatment program.
How quickly does ozempic help me in losing weight?
The rate of weight loss on Ozempic is not consistent for everyone. However, in general it has been reported that weight loss begins after a few weeks of taking the medication.
