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What are the negatives of Ozempic?
You’ve probably seen the word “Ozempic” floating around on the internet — it’s creating quite the commotion in medical and fitness communities across the US. Ozempic is essentially a medication that the FDA has approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes to help manage blood sugar. Although not officially labeled as a weight loss drug, there is research that demonstrates Ozempic can help people without diabetes lose a moderate amount of weight. In fact, the active ingredient found in Ozempic, semaglutide, is FDA-approved to treat individuals living with obesity under the drug name Wegovy.
Because there has been a recent Wegovy shortage combined with all the attention that Ozempic is getting on social media as a potential weight loss drug, many people without diabetes are seeking it out to help them lose weight off label. One thing to keep in mind is that there are risks and drawbacks associated with using Ozempic to lose weight, and most doctors recommend against doing so since Ozempic hasn’t been FDA-approved for weight loss.
1. Ozempic provides only temporary weight loss
While Ozempic may initially help you lose weight, once you discontinue the medication, you’ll likely regain most of your weight. Many studies have shown that stopping Ozempic completely results in weight gain within a few months. Medications like Ozempic are designed to be taken long-term to control chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes — not to lose weight.
2. There can be significant side effects
While Ozempic is a safe medication for approved use, there are some significant side effects to be aware of — many people on Ozempic experience gastrointestinal issues, like nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. Other less common side effects include pancreatitis, kidney problems, gallbladder issues, and hypoglycemia.
3. It can result in accelerated aging
People taking Ozempic are more at risk of experiencing facial aging compared to those not using certain medications for diabetes. This is because rapid weight loss can deflate key areas of the face, leading to a more aged appearance (luckily, dermal fillers like Juvéderm and Revanesse can help restore volume!). To age in a healthy way, both biologically and aesthetically, it’s recommended to lose weight slowly and steadily over a longer period of time.
4. Ozempic can increase the risk of cancer
Studies have found that Ozempic may increase your risk of certain types of cancer, including thyroid tumors. In fact, the FDA has issued a boxed warning for this potential risk, which is the most serious warning that they can give to medications. If you have a personal or family history of these types of cancer, then you should definitely not take Ozempic without first consulting with a doctor.
Bottom line: Ozempic shouldn’t be used as an off-label weight loss drug
Not only are there serious risks and side effects associated with taking Ozempic for weight loss, but because it is being sought out right now by everyone, those with type 2 diabetes who actually need it to help manage their chronic condition aren’t able to receive this crucial medication. Instead of relying on Ozempic for a quick-fix solution to weight loss, most doctors recommend following a well-rounded and sensible diet and exercise plan to slowly and steadily achieve the body you want.
If you are still looking to reshape your body after adopting a healthier lifestyle, there are safe and effective alternatives available, like body contouring treatments. For instance, CoolSculpting is a non-invasive fat reduction treatment that uses controlled cooling to freeze and eliminate unwanted fat cells in areas of the body, like your stomach, arms, flank, thighs, and more. Unlike Ozempic, CoolSculpting does not involve the use of medications or injections, and it does not carry the same risks of side effects or complications. CoolSculpting works best in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise regimen.
Want to learn more about how CoolSculpting can help you achieve your aesthetic goals? Check out LaserAway, the nation’s leading aesthetic dermatology provider.
