You have probably heard about Ozempic from various sources, including influencers and celebrities. This medication has become a hot topic of discussion on social media, television shows, and interviews. Celebrities often share their weight loss secrets, and Ozempic is frequently mentioned among them.
However, don’t forget about the possibility of paid promotions. In the world of show business, mentioning specific medications on stage or in the media can be part of a carefully planned marketing strategy. Companies are willing to pay large sums of money to create the impression that their product is the choice of celebrities. This is part of modern reality, where the line between real experience and advertising is often blurred.
Hearing such statements, it’s essential to remember that every individual is unique, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another. Additionally, the popularity of a medication does not always guarantee its safety or effectiveness for a wide range of people. Therefore, before deciding to use such products, it is necessary to carefully evaluate the information and always consult with your doctor.
What is Wegovy, and how is it different from Ozempic?
Wegovy and Ozempic are brand names for the same active ingredient, semaglutide, but they differ in dosage and indications. Both medications are manufactured by Novo Nordisk, a pharmaceutical company based in Denmark.
- Ozempic is used for treating type 2 diabetes. It helps control blood sugar levels and, with prolonged use, also contributes to weight loss (approximately 12% of initial body weight in one year).
- Wegovy is specifically prescribed for weight loss in people with excess body weight or obesity. It is used in higher doses than Ozempic to achieve more significant weight loss results. However, it’s important to note that higher doses of any medication are associated with an increased risk of side effects.
Ozempic started being used for weight loss even in people without a type 2 diabetes diagnosis due to supply shortages of Wegovy, as the company producing both drugs has been unable to keep up with demand.
How do these medications work?
Medications like Wegovy and Ozempic work by mimicking the hormone GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). This hormone is naturally produced in the body and is responsible for regulating appetite, blood sugar levels, and digestion. The main mechanisms of action include:
- Appetite suppression: The drugs act on receptors in the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that controls hunger, helping reduce the urge to consume excess calories.
- Slowing gastric emptying: By slowing the movement of food from the stomach to the intestines, they increase the feeling of fullness, which helps reduce the amount of food consumed throughout the day.
- Regulating blood sugar levels: They stimulate insulin production after meals and decrease glucose release from the liver, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Who Are These Medications Suitable For?
Officially, Ozempic is recommended for individuals with type 2 diabetes. However, Wegovy can be prescribed even without a diabetes diagnosis, provided the following criteria are met:
- Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30, which qualifies as obesity.
- Individuals with a BMI ≥ 27 who also have additional health issues related to excess weight, such as:
- High blood pressure;
- Type 2 diabetes;
- High cholesterol;
- Cardiovascular problems.
Important! Prescribing Wegovy without meeting these criteria is not considered appropriate. Why? Because this medication (and the same applies to Ozempic) comes with a range of side effects, some of which can severely impact your health.
Side Effects and Risks
The use of Wegovy and Ozempic is associated with several side effects and risks:
- Gastrointestinal issues:
- The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and bloating.
- These symptoms are most prevalent during the first weeks of use and may decrease over time.
- Risk of pancreatitis:
- These medications can increase the risk of inflammation of the pancreas, particularly in patients with gallstones or high triglyceride levels.
- Retinopathy:
- In individuals with diabetes, retinopathy (damage to the retina) may develop or worsen, especially with a rapid reduction in blood sugar levels.
- Hormonal and cancer risks:
- In animal studies, semaglutide was linked to an increased risk of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). The medication is contraindicated in individuals with a family history of MTC or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
- Loss of muscle mass:
- Rapid weight loss may result in a decrease in muscle mass, particularly without adequate physical activity and nutrition.
- “Ozempic face”:
- Includes sagging skin as the fat that supports its structure diminishes. Rapid weight loss reduces levels of elastin and collagen, which are critical for skin elasticity.
- Potential symptoms:
- Enhanced signs of aging, such as wrinkles;
- Loss of facial fat, leading to loose skin;
- A hollowed and gaunt appearance of the face.
- Risk of weight regain:
- After stopping the medications, patients often regain the weight if they don’t maintain changes in diet and physical activity.
- Rare allergic reactions:
- Possible allergic symptoms include rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, which require immediate medical attention. Allergic reactions can occur with any medication.
Why Are These Medications So Widely Used? Despite these risks, these medications remain popular because both diabetes and excess weight can severely impact health. When prescribing such treatments, it is crucial to weigh the risks against the benefits. Doctors always assess whether the potential risks of using the medication are outweighed by its expected benefits for the individual patient’s health.
But these medications should never be used without prior medical evaluation and continuous health monitoring. Their use is only justified for specific medical indications and should not be considered a general solution for weight loss without proper justification.
Risk of SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) with Wegovy and Ozempic Use
The slowing of the digestive system caused by these medications can lead to food stagnation in the intestine. This creates a favorable environment for the excessive growth of bacteria that are not normally present in such high numbers in the small intestine.
Why does this happen? The consistent slowing of gastrointestinal motility increases the time food remains in the small intestine. This promotes the active fermentation of carbohydrates and other nutrients by bacteria, leading to their uncontrolled proliferation.
This microbial imbalance not only causes local issues such as bloating and abdominal pain but can also harm overall health by triggering systemic inflammation and reducing the absorption of essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12 and iron.
Using Ozempic Solely for Weight Loss with Normal or Low Blood Sugar Levels
Using Ozempic solely for weight loss in individuals with normal or low blood sugar levels carries specific risks. Since the medication was originally designed to control blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes, its use in people without this diagnosis can lead to excessive lowering of blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include dizziness, weakness, tremors, sweating, confusion, and even fainting.
While such symptoms can also occur in individuals with diabetes, they tend to be more pronounced in those without diabetes, as their bodies are less adapted to these changes.
Impact on Psycho-Emotional Well-Being
Side effects such as chronic nausea, abdominal pain, and digestive disturbances not only worsen physical health but also significantly affect emotional well-being. The close connection between the brain and the gut means that digestive problems can cause stress, anxiety, and even depression. Patients often experience isolation and avoid social activities, especially those involving food or locations with limited access to restrooms.
This vicious cycle between emotional and physical symptoms can substantially reduce quality of life and may require additional psychological support.
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The Problem of Weight Regain
One of the key challenges with using Ozempic and Wegovy for weight loss is the risk of quickly regaining lost weight after discontinuing these medications. These drugs work by suppressing appetite and slowing gastric emptying, but once treatment is stopped, the body often returns to its previous metabolic state. This can lead to increased appetite and higher calorie consumption, ultimately causing weight regain.
The risk is particularly high for patients who have not made long-term lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet and regular physical activity. In such cases, the lost weight may return within a few months, and in some cases, patients may gain even more weight than they originally lost. This is due to metabolic changes and the absence of sustainable habits to maintain a healthy weight.
Furthermore, excess weight rarely arises without underlying causes. Identifying and addressing the root causes of the problem, such as hormonal imbalances, chronic conditions, or poor dietary habits, is crucial instead of relying solely on medications for weight loss.
All of these factors highlight the importance of a comprehensive approach to weight management. Medications (only when truly necessary) should be combined with lifestyle modifications, including balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and addressing the factors contributing to weight gain. This approach ensures sustainable results and helps avoid returning to previous problems.
Counterfeit Medications
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about counterfeit versions of Ozempic appearing on the U.S. market. In December 2023, the FDA seized thousands of counterfeit Ozempic 1 mg units from the legal drug supply chain. Testing revealed that these counterfeits contained unidentified ingredients and non-sterile needles, increasing the risk of infections when used.
Counterfeit drugs may contain incorrect or missing active ingredients and potentially harmful substances, making their use extremely dangerous. In June 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a warning about falsified batches of Ozempic found in the U.S., UK, and Brazil. So far, no cases of counterfeit Ozempic have been reported in Canada.
Conclusion
Ozempic and Wegovy have become widely discussed for their effectiveness in treating type 2 diabetes and aiding in weight loss. However, despite their popularity, it is crucial to remember that these medications require strict adherence to medical guidelines. Using them without proper indications, without accounting for individual health conditions, and without accompanying lifestyle changes can not only reduce their effectiveness but also lead to severe side effects.
Weight loss is a complex challenge that demands attention not only to medications but also to diet, physical activity, and addressing the root causes of excess weight. Medications can be valuable tools but only as part of a comprehensive plan developed under the supervision of a doctor. The popularity of these drugs should not replace a thoughtful and informed approach to health.
Before starting Ozempic or Wegovy, consult your doctor, undergo necessary examinations, and discuss potential risks and alternatives. Only then can you achieve sustainable results and avoid unwanted consequences.
FDA warns consumers not to use counterfeit Ozempic (semaglutide) found in U.S. drug supply chain