Weight loss no longer feels like an impossible task, especially with the growing popularity of Ozempic. This once obscure diabetes medication is now making headlines for its weight-loss benefits, with A-list celebrities and influencers openly embracing it as a game-changer. From B-Town stars to Hollywood icons like Karan Johar, Amy Schumer, and Elon Musk, Ozempic is creating a major buzz across the globe. Did you know what Elon Musk tweeted about this drug (ozempic): he said “Fasting + Ozempic/ Wegovy + no tasty foods near me”. Not just this, a famed TV personality and clothing designer, Darcey Silva has also said “ I just got my ozempic shot, hell excited about the transformation that’s going to help curve my appetite and weight loss. So, shall we do a reality check whether this drug is actually worth the hype or is it just being a talk-in-the-town subject? Let’s dive into what Ozempic is, why it’s trending, and what you must consider before hopping on this bandwagon.
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic is an FDA-approved prescription medication given to Type 2 Diabetes patients. It is provided by an injection under the skin of the patient’s thigh, belly, or upper arm. An autoinjector (pen) is used for injection and is provided once every week. Primarily, it helps boost blood sugar in type 2 diabetes patients and is well-known to reduce Haemoglobin A1C. Although Ozempic is not officially a weight loss drug, research suggests it may aid weight reduction.
The active ingredient present in Ozempic, called semaglutide, is approved by the FDA in higher doses for individuals suffering from obesity and other weight-related issues. In that case, it’s sold under the name Wegovy. The active ingredient semaglutide is available in the form of Ozempic tablets under the brand name Rybelsus. Let’s dive deep into understanding the Ozempic meaning, how it works, its side effects, and its benefits.
The Science Behind Ozempic: How It Works
Understanding the Ozempic meaning is not enough; if you want to know its benefits for weight loss, it is essential to know how it works. The studies backed by Novo Nordisk (the company manufacturing Ozempic) suggest that people who intake semaglutide may lose weight.
What is Semaglutide? It is a GLP-1 receptor that can make the natural hormone GLP-1 more effective. Dr. McGowan clarifies that in addition to controlling diabetes and blood sugar levels, GLP-1 also impacts weight in the following two ways:
- Targets the hunger centres in the brain (particularly in the hypothalamus) to decrease appetite, hunger, and cravings.
- It slows down the pace of stomach emptying and thus makes you feel full and satisfied for a long duration after meals, eventually leading to weight loss.
Unlocking the Power of Ozempic: Key Benefits
Primarily, Ozemic treats type 2 diabetes, but it has also become popular for weight loss benefits. By understanding the meaning of Ozempic, you can better understand its benefits for weight loss. The following are some of the benefits of Ozempic weight loss.
- Ozempic works by imitating the hormone GLP-1, which helps control appetite. This results in decreased appetite and an enhanced sense of fullness, making eating less easier and eventually losing weight.
- Ozempic effectively decreases belly fat, which is usually linked to a higher risk of heart disease.
- Ozempic can facilitate long-term weight loss with regular exercise and a healthy diet.
7 Common Ozempic Side Effects
Many individuals are confused about whether taking Ozempic weight loss is safe. While it contributes to weight loss, it has some side effects. It can lead to gastrointestinal side effects because it slows down digestion.
Some of the common Ozempic side effects are:
-
- Nausea occurs when your body is just getting adjusted to the usage of Ozempic injection.
- Vomiting: During the treatment process, many individuals have experienced vomiting.
- Diarrhea: Using Ozempic also has other side effects. One of these is individuals facing gastrointestinal issues.
- Constipation: Using Ozempic also leads to changes in the dietary process. This often leads to constipation.
- Bloating: Bloating is one such side effect of Ozempic due to abdominal discomfort and a sense of fullness in the stomach.
- Inflammation: There might be a burning sensation in the heart after the intake of meals.
- Acid reflux: Due to the change in dietary behaviour and usage of Ozempic, acid production might increase among many users.
Usually, these issues diminish as your body starts adjusting to the medication. However, in the short run, they can be bothersome. Moreover, some individuals report that they felt lightheaded or fatigued, specifically when they first began using the Ozempic medication.
Ozempic Dosage for Weight Loss
Usually health care professionals prescribe Ozempic injection once a week, along with a proper diet, and recommended exercise. The beginning dose is said to be 0.25mg for the first four weeks, why this much low? Because it will help the body to get used to the medicine and avoid showing any side effects. If everything goes well, the professional may increase the dose from 0.25 to 0.5mg once a week. Higher doses of Ozempic injection (for weight management) i.e. 2.4mg of semaglutide, are quite effective for weight loss in obese individuals. And for type 2 diabetes, this injection dose is usually not more than 2mg once a week. However, it is recommended that these medications be taken after the doctor’s prescription.
Takeaway
It is imperative to weigh the benefits and side effects before considering Ozempic weight loss. The drug can help some individuals lose weight, specifically those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, but it is not a highly effective solution since it comes with some side effects. It is important to understand ozempic meaning and its side effects before you make your final decision. Make sure to consult your healthcare provider before starting Ozempic injection. Note that the long-term effects of using Ozempic weight loss are still being studied, and it is beneficial for you to have regular check-ups from your healthcare provider.
