The new weight loss fad that has become all the rage in Hollywood is Semaglutide (Ozempic). It is a pharmaceutical drug designed to help those with Type 2 Diabetes. It has the off-brand side effect of weight loss which has become widely known and sought after even for those who are not diabetic.
When you visit the main website for Ozempic, it pops up a warning as soon as it loads. This warning reads “Ozempic® may cause serious side effects, including Possible thyroid tumors, including cancer.” As it turns out, it has also been shown to potentially lead to pancreatitis, diabetic retinopathy, kidney failure, gallbladder disease, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea or constipation.
Are the Results Really Worth Your Health?
Approximately 1/3 of people who take Ozempic for weight loss will lose up to 10% of their original body weight. The majority should expect to lose around 5%. That translates to a weight loss of between 10 to 20 lbs. if your starting weight was 200 lbs.
How Long Does the Average Ozempic/Semaglutide user keep the weight off?
On average once you stop using Ozempic, the weight will return within 6 months to a year.
Does the Manufacturer Approve of Semaglutide for Weight Loss?
Novo Nordisk A/S clearly states that “Ozempic is not intended for people without diabetes to take, and its side effects can be severe. If you are looking to take a weight loss drug that is approved for people without diabetes, talk with your doctor who can give you options.”
If it is So Dangerous, Why are People Using it?
And yet, more and more med spa-type clinics are carrying Semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic) for this off-brand use. Why? Because of the demand. Society sees their favorite celebrities using it with the results they want, and they are willing to overlook the risks to attain the body of their dreams.
It is important to realize that celebrities are just people too. They are fallible and under a lot of pressure to maintain their weight and appearance. They often make flawed decisions that they may regret in years to come.
Achieving Sustainable Weight Loss Goals
When it comes to Semaglutide (Ozemic/Wegovy) – The real question becomes – Are you willing to potentially risk your health to lose a dress size, temporarily? This type of weight loss does nothing to guarantee you will end up in better shape, just lighter according to a number on the scale.
If you want to lose weight the right way and recompose your body to a lower fat higher muscle percentage, talk to your doctor, dietician, nutritionist, or personal trainer.
Never jump on the celebrity diet bandwagon or you may get way more than you bargained for.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK544016/
https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/medications/semaglutide