Ozempic for Weight Loss: How It Works, Benefits, and Considerations

Ozempic for Weight Loss: How It Works, Benefits, and Considerations
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How Ozempic Works for Weight Loss

Ozempic (semaglutide) is an injectable diabetes medication originally developed to help lower blood sugar levels. More recently, research has shown it also promotes weight loss by curbing appetite and reducing calorie intake. It works by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which regulates hunger and food consumption.

Understanding the Research on Ozempic and Weight Loss

In clinical trials, people taking Ozempic lost significantly more weight over 68 weeks compared to those taking a placebo. On average people lost 12-15% of their body weight on the medication. More research is still needed on long-term use for weight loss specifically.

Who is a Good Candidate for Ozempic?

Ozempic is generally intended for overweight or obese adults who have weight-related health issues. It may also help those who have struggled to lose weight through diet and lifestyle changes alone. Discuss with a doctor if Ozempic is appropriate for your health history and goals.

Potential Benefits of Ozempic for Weight Loss

Helps Shed Pounds and Reduce BMI

By curbing appetite, studies show Ozempic can lead to marked weight loss and lower BMI for most users over nearly a year and a half of treatment.

May Improve Other Health Markers

The weight loss aided by Ozempic also led to improvements in triglycerides, waist circumference, and other cardiovascular risk factors in clinical trials.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Considerations

Gastrointestinal Issues

Like other GLP-1 drugs, the most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.

Other Possible Side Effects

A small percentage may also experience reactions like pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, low blood sugar, kidney problems, and injection site reactions. Long-term safety is still being researched.

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FAQs

How much weight can I expect to lose on Ozempic?

In clinical trials, people lost an average of 12-15% of their body weight over 68 weeks on Ozempic. But weight loss results can vary from person to person.

Does Ozempic help with belly fat and BMI?

Yes, study data shows Ozempic helped reduced BMI and waist circumference more than a placebo after nearly a year and a half of treatment.

What are the most common Ozempic side effects?

Like other GLP-1 drugs, gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal discomfort are the most frequently reported Ozempic side effects.

Is Ozempic safe for long-term use?

More research is still needed on the long-term safety of using Ozempic specifically for weight loss. There may be risks with use beyond 2 years.

Who should not take Ozempic?

Ozempic may not be suitable for those with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2. Discuss your health history with your provider.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.

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