Recent research demonstrating the weight loss benefits of Ozempic, a medication primarily approved for the treatment of diabetes, is poised to revolutionize the healthcare sector. The weight loss associated with Ozempic has led to a sharp rise in the use of this medication across the world.
However, before you decide to start using Ozempic for weight loss, it is important to get a clear idea of how it works and the results you can expect. It is also essential to weigh the benefits of Ozempic against its high cost.
This article provides information on the weight loss results you can expect from using Ozempic and analyzes the benefits of this drug against the cost of the treatment.
What Is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a prescription drug used off-label for weight loss. It is the brand name of the generic medication Semaglutide.
Although Ozempic is approved by the FDA for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, clinical research has established that it might be helpful for supporting weight loss. [1]
How Is Ozempic Used?
Ozempic is an injectable medication available as a solution prefilled inside disposable pens, offering convenience in taking injections. The strengths are mentioned on the pens in milligrams of Semaglutide per milliliter (mg/mL). The available dosage strengths include 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg.
Ozempic is administered subcutaneously. This means you need to inject it just below the superficial layer of the skin. [2]
The recommended dosage of Ozempic is once a week. The recommended starting dosage of Ozempic is 0.25 mg. The doses are taken subcutaneously (just under the skin) once a week. The dose may be increased to 0.5 mg once weekly after 4 weeks and then to 1 mg once weekly if needed to improve weight loss and glycemic control.
Your healthcare provider might advise you to increase the dose to 2 mg once a week if further weight loss or blood glucose control is desired. This is the maximum recommended dose of injectable Semaglutide.
It is advisable to take the injection on the same day each week to support hormonal balance and improve the weight loss results with this drug. You should also try to inject Ozempic at about the same time on the chosen day to maintain its effectiveness.
Starting Ozempic treatment at a lower dose will allow your body enough time to adjust to the effect of Semaglutide. This will help you see how the drug is working and allow you to modify the dosage based on the gaps between your actual and expected weight loss and the appearance of side effects.
You can talk to our healthcare experts at Amp Health to find out the most suitable strength of Ozempic for you, depending on your weight loss goals and blood sugar levels.
The injection sites for both Byetta and Ozempic include the abdomen, thigh, and upper arm areas. You can rotate the injection sites to avoid skin complications. It is also important to follow the proper technique for taking subcutaneous injections to avoid local side effects such as redness and swelling and improve the effectiveness of the drug.
How Does Ozempic Work?
Ozempic is used along with a balanced diet and exercise for the management of obesity in adults with BMI>27 with or without type 2 diabetes. [3]
This medication has also been proven to reduce the risk of cerebrovascular stroke and heart attacks in adults with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. It might also help mitigate the risk of mortality associated with the complications of these conditions.
The primary ingredient of Ozempic is Semaglutide, which belongs to the GLP-1 agonist class. Semaglutide helps reduce weight by acting on the hunger center in the brain (particularly in the hypothalamus), thus reducing appetite and craving.
Ozempic also activates the GLP-1 receptors. This slows gastric emptying, keeping you feeling fuller for a longer duration. This can reduce your appetite and lower your total food intake, thus supporting weight loss. Clinical research has revealed that the treatment with Semaglutide can promote sustained and clinically relevant weight reduction. [4]
In addition, Ozempic also stimulates the release of insulin in the pancreas, making it an effective option for treating diabetes. It also increases the release of insulin in the pancreas.
You can consult our weight management experts at Amp Health to learn more about the weight loss results with Ozempic. Our healthcare experts will provide a customized weight loss plan based on your age, medical conditions, BMI, current weight, expected weight loss, diet, lifestyle, and other preferences to help you shed excess pounds safely and effectively.
How Effective Is Ozempic?
Ozempic has demonstrated substantial positive effects in weight management. Clinical research suggests that this drug might help you lose weight when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Experimental research suggests that people who do not have diabetes can expect to lose nearly 14 to 15% of their body weight from using 2.4 mg of Semaglutide once a week over a period of 68 weeks when combined with healthy dietary and lifestyle interventions. [5]
Some other benefits you can expect from using Ozempic for weight loss, include:
- Improved blood sugar levels
- Reduced waist circumference
- Improved cholesterol levels
- Lowered blood pressure
What Does The Research Say About Ozempic Weight Loss Results?
Ozempic, in combination with proper diet and lifestyle changes, has been shown to support weight loss. [6]
Clinical studies have shown that Semaglutide leads to significant weight loss in individuals with obesity or overweight. The STEP 1 trial of Semaglutide, which included participants with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or higher and at least one weight-related condition, demonstrated that participants receiving Semaglutide lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight over 68 weeks compared to just 2.4% in the placebo group. [7]
Further research in the STEP 5 trial extended this observation over a longer period, showing that participants could maintain their weight loss for up to two years. This trial involved a 104-week period and confirmed that Semaglutide not only helps in achieving initial weight loss but also supports long-term maintenance of normal weight when proper dietary habits are followed.
These studies highlight the effectiveness of Semaglutide in managing obesity, emphasizing its potential as a long-term treatment option.
Most importantly, further research suggests the possibility of gaining lost weight once the use of Ozempic is stopped. People might regain much of the lost weight when they discontinue the treatment and switch back to their unhealthy dietary habits.
Hence, it is crucial that you eat a nutritious, balanced diet and adopt healthy lifestyle habits during and even after stopping Ozempic to improve weight loss and sustain the results.
Some lifestyle habits recommended for supporting Ozempic’s weight loss results include:
- Exercise regularly
- Quit smoking
- Limit alcohol intake
- Get adequate sleep
- Avoid mental stress
- Monitor your health frequently
What Are The Side Effects Of Ozempic?
Ozempic has a favorable safety profile, although it may cause a few side effects. Some common side effects of Ozempic include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
If you develop these side effects, your doctor might advise you to stop using Ozempic and prescribe an alternative drug for weight loss.
Ozempic may lead to a few rare but serious side effects, including:
- Allergic reactions, causing symptoms such as skin rash, itching, redness, and swelling of the face, tongue, and throat
- Kidney dysfunctions, such as kidney failure
- Pancreatitis (swelling and inflammation of your pancreas)
- Hypoglycemia (very low blood sugar)
- Gallbladder disease, such as cholecystitis (swelling and inflammation of your gallbladder) and gallstones
- Increased risk of thyroid cancer
Contact your doctor right away if you have these serious side effects while using Ozempic. If the side effects are severe or life-threatening, visit the nearest emergency medical center immediately.
In addition, the FDA has issued a black box warning for Ozempic and most other GLP-1 agonists about the potential risk for people with a medical or family history of thyroid conditions,
including multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 or medullary thyroid carcinoma. The warning cautions people with these conditions against using these drugs. [8]
It is important to consider these side effects when evaluating Ozempic’s results and effectiveness so that you can make an informed decision on using it for weight loss or diabetes.
How Much Does Ozempic Cost?
Ozempic is an expensive medication. The monthly cost of this drug often exceeds several hundred dollars. The cost of Ozempic depends on factors, including your treatment plan, your location, and your insurance coverage.
The cost for Ozempic might also vary when it is prescribed off-label for weight management compared with its approved use. For example, most health insurance plans do not reimburse the cost of Ozempic when it is prescribed for weight management.
Do I qualify for Ozempic?
You may qualify for Ozempic if you are struggling with weight loss. Your doctor might advise you to use Semaglutide for weight loss if you:
- Are obese with a BMI of 30 or higher
- Are overweight with a BMI of 27 or higher and have at least one health condition associated with weight gain, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol
Ozempic is particularly useful for people who have been trying to lose weight but are unable to see any results due to their inability to control their appetite. Ozempic’s effect on the appetite center in the brain would reduce their appetite and control their cravings, thus supporting their weight loss efforts.
You may also use Ozempic, in combination with other medications, to lower your risk of stroke and heart disease. [9]
You can book a telehealth appointment with our doctor at Amp Health to find out if you qualify for Ozempic. Our doctors will analyze your case and ask questions about your diet, lifestyle, and medical history to determine whether you can use Ozempic for weight loss.
What Should I Know Before Using Ozempic?
Before considering the off-label use of Ozempic for weight loss, it’s crucial to be aware of certain health considerations and potential risks associated with this drug.
The medication may not be safe for patients with specific medical conditions, as detailed below.
Ozempic carries a boxed warning from the FDA cautioning patients against using this drug if they have a medical or family history of certain forms of thyroid cancer. During treatment, your doctor will monitor you for symptoms of thyroid cancer, such as neck pain, a lump in your throat, or a hoarse voice, and conduct tests to check for thyroid dysfunctions if needed.
Ozempic may not be suitable for patient who suffer from:
- Kidney problems, such as kidney failure
- Diabetic retinopathy
- A history of pancreatitis
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, or plans to become pregnant
- Previous allergic reactions to the drug or its ingredients
It is important to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider to determine if Ozempic is safe and appropriate for your specific health needs.
Cost-Benefit Analysis of Ozempic for Weight Loss
Here are some points to consider when weighing the weight loss results of Ozempic vs. its high costs.
- Effective Weight Loss: Clinical studies show that Semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss, often ranging from 5% to 15% of body weight, which can be substantial for many users.
- Weight loss can improve your overall health, potentially reducing the risk of chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension.
- Improved Quality of Life: Achieving weight loss goals can enhance your self-esteem, increase your mobility, and improve your mental health, all contributing to a higher quality of life.
- Convenience: Ozempic is administered once a week, offering a relatively convenient option compared to daily medications.
- Costs: Ozempic is an expensive medication, with monthly costs often exceeding several hundred dollars, depending on your insurance coverage and other factors. So, out-of-pocket costs can be a significant burden for those without adequate insurance or financial assistance. Also, sustained weight loss often requires continued use of the medication, leading to ongoing expenses. Some people might find it challenging to maintain this financial commitment over time.
- Long-Term Health Savings: Weight loss with Ozempic can reduce the need for other medications and treatments associated with obesity-related conditions, potentially leading to long-term healthcare cost savings.
You can weigh the immediate and long-term benefits of Ozempic against its costs, considering both health improvements and financial impact.
Ozempic Results And Costs: FAQs
If I Don’t Have Diabetes, Can I Still Use Ozempic For Weight Loss?
You may use Ozempic for weight loss if you do not have diabetes. Ozempic is officially approved for managing type 2 diabetes, but doctors often prescribe it off-label for weight loss for patients who don’t have diabetes.
How Quickly Will Ozempic Work For Weight Loss?
Ozempic generally start to show weight loss results within the first few weeks of treatment. In clinical trials, significant weight loss was observed over a period of several months.
However, individual results can vary. Some people might notice changes within the first month, while for others, it might take longer. The rate of weight loss can depend on various factors, including diet, exercise, and overall health.
Do I Have To Keep Taking Ozempic Long Term Even If I Lose Weight?
It’s likely that any weight lost during Ozempic treatment might return after stopping the drug. To maintain weight loss and prevent regain, you may be prescribed Ozempic for an extended period. This long-term use can help sustain the weight loss achieved during the treatment. [10]
Are There Any Cheaper Alternatives For Ozempic?
Yes, there are a few cheaper alternatives to Ozempic that might be more affordable. For example, Wegovy, another brand of Semaglutide, is specifically approved for weight loss. While it might be priced similarly to Ozempic, it may be worth considering it based on its insurance coverage and availability.
You can also consider using compounded Semaglutide. Compounded Semaglutide offers additional benefits as its dosage can be customized based on your desired weight loss results and medical conditions.
Conclusion
Ozempic has proven to be an effective tool for weight loss, offering significant results for many users. However, the high cost associated with this medication remains a critical factor to consider.
It is important to weigh the benefits of Ozempic against the cost and explore other available options for managing weight.
You can consult with our healthcare providers at Amp Health to determine if Ozempic would be the right choice based on your health needs, financial considerations, and long-term goals.
DISCLAIMER
If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on our website are based on information drawn from medical research, societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33830968/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31305971/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34942372/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33567185/
- https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/209637s012lbl.pdf
- https://www.acc.org/latest-in-cardiology/clinical-trials/2021/02/18/19/23/step-1
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538521/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29363040/
- https://dom-pubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/dom.14725
