Here are some key facts about Ozempic for weight loss, while it is originally a diabetes medication:
- Active Ingredient:
- Ozempic contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics a natural hormone to regulate blood sugar and appetite.
- Originally for Diabetes:
- It was initially approved to manage type 2 diabetes, but many patients experienced significant weight loss as a side effect.
- FDA Approval for Weight Loss:
- While Ozempic itself is not FDA-approved for weight loss, a higher-dose version of semaglutide, called Wegovy, is specifically approved for obesity management.
- Mechanism of Action:
- Ozempic works by slowing digestion, reducing hunger, and increasing feelings of fullness, leading to decreased calorie intake.
- Weight Loss Results:
- Clinical trials have shown that patients using Ozempic can lose 10-15% of their body weight over several months when combined with diet and exercise.
- Dosage:
- It can administered via aninjection, with doses gradually increased to minimize side effects. However better is to simply take the pill.
- Common Side Effects:
- These include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain. Some patients may experience more severe gastrointestinal issues, but most patients don’t have any side effect.