According to a recent report by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 42% of Americans are obese, a statistic that has fuelled the ongoing search for safe and effective weight-loss solutions, from specialised diets and exercise regimes to medical interventions.

In recent years, one drug has sparked significant global attention: Ozempic. Originally designed to treat type 2 diabetes, the medication is now being widely discussed and used off-label for weight management.

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic, known by its generic name semaglutide, was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017 for patients with type 2 diabetes. Administered once a week via injection, the drug stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin, thereby lowering blood sugar levels.

Although Ozempic has not been officially approved for weight loss, some physicians prescribe it to patients seeking to shed pounds.

How does it work?

The drug mimics a natural hormone that signals to the brain that the stomach is full, curbing appetite. It also slows digestion, keeping food in the stomach longer. These effects, experts note, resemble certain outcomes of bariatric surgery. Weight reduction has frequently been observed as a side effect during diabetes treatment.

Is it effective for weight loss?

Research suggests that semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, can indeed aid in weight reduction. However, experts stress that optimal results are achieved when paired with a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Interestingly, a higher-dose version of semaglutide, marketed as Wegovy, was approved by the FDA in 2021 specifically for weight loss. Both drugs are manufactured by the same company, but Wegovy is designed solely for obesity management, while Ozempic remains a diabetes treatment.

Benefits and possible risks

Health experts highlight that weight loss through Ozempic can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and other serious conditions. For some patients, it could serve as a non-surgical alternative to bariatric procedures, though surgery generally provides longer-lasting outcomes.

Still, challenges remain. Over time, the body may build tolerance to the drug, slowing weight loss. Discontinuing use often results in weight regain. Moreover, misuse of Ozempic by non-diabetic individuals has raised concerns about drug shortages and unnecessary health risks.

The bottom line

Ozempic has given new hope to those struggling with obesity, but medical professionals caution that it is not a quick fix. The drug was developed primarily for type 2 diabetes patients, and its off-label use for weight loss should be carefully weighed against potential drawbacks.

Experts advise individuals seeking medical help for obesity to consult their doctors about safer, approved alternatives such as Wegovy or other lifestyle-based treatments.