What’s the Deal with the Weight Loss Drug, Ozempic?
We’ve all heard about it - Ozempic has been making waves about weight loss…but is it really the wonder drug we’ve heard about? Dig in with Bill DeHoog Whole Body Fitness as we explore the uses, side effects, and newest data coming out in relation to Ozempic, health, weight loss, and the best way to do it.
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic, also known as semaglutide, is a medication primarily prescribed for treating type 2 diabetes. It belongs to the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist class of drugs - so by mimicking the action of GLP-1, Ozempic helps regulate blood sugar levels, primarily by stimulating insulin secretion, slowing down stomach emptying, and reducing appetite. Typically administered once a week via subcutaneous injection, Ozempic is used alongside diet and exercise to manage diabetes effectively.
Is Ozempic used for weight loss?
While not its primary use, Ozempic has been associated with significant weight loss. According to manufacturer Novo Nordisk, people who experienced Ozempic weight loss side effects lost an average of 9.3 to 14.1 pounds over 40 weeks on Ozempic.
This has led to widespread off-label use of Ozempic to treat obesity, driving a global shortage of the drug. However, regaining weight after stopping the medication is common and people taking Ozempic for weight loss are still subject to all other side effects of the medication.
In addition to its primary indication for type 2 diabetes, Ozempic has gained approval for weight management. At higher doses than those used for diabetes treatment, semaglutide has demonstrated effectiveness in promoting weight loss, particularly in individuals with obesity. However, its use for weight management is typically reserved for those with a BMI of 30 or higher or a BMI of 27 or higher with certain weight-related comorbidities, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol.
What’s the Word on Potential Negative Side Effects?
Ozempic, like any medication, carries potential risks and side effects, with common side effects including nausea, diarrhea, hypoglycemia, injection site reactions, and gastrointestinal issues like vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, and indigestion.
Furthermore, there have been reports of pancreatitis and an increased risk of thyroid C-cell tumors associated with GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic. It's crucial for individuals using Ozempic to remain vigilant for these potential adverse effects and to consult healthcare providers promptly if any concerns arise.
Pancreatitis: There have been reports of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) in individuals taking GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic. Symptoms of pancreatitis include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. If these symptoms occur, it's important to seek medical attention promptly.
Thyroid C-Cell Tumors: In animal studies, semaglutide has been shown to increase the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. While this risk has not been definitively established in humans, it's a potential concern, particularly for individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).
In late 2023, the FDA began investigating reports of suicidal ideation, alopecia (hair loss) and aspiration after it identified potential risks in its July to September 2023 FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) data. In early January 2024, the agency ruled there wasn’t sufficient evidence to link Ozempic to suicidal thoughts, but it continues to investigate.
On Sept. 28, 2023, the FDA updated Ozempic’s label, acknowledging the potentially life-threatening side effect of ileus, or blockage of the intestines. People have filed Ozempic lawsuits after they suffered gastroparesis (paralyzed stomach), excessive vomiting, intestinal blockages and ileus.
“We’re alleging that the Defendants knew or should have known that these drugs could cause what’s called gastroparesis, ileus and intestinal blockages, and they failed to properly warn the American population about it,” Jonathan Sedgh of Morgan & Morgan told Drugwatch.
It's essential for individuals taking Ozempic to be aware of these potential risks and to discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider.
Addressing the Root Causes of Obesity and Diabetes:
While medications like Ozempic play a role in managing diabetes and weight, they don’t address the underlying causes of obesity and deteriorating metabolic health. The rise in obesity and diabetes in North America is multifaceted, with factors such as unhealthy diets, sedentary lifestyles, environmental influences, genetics, mental health, and the food industry playing significant roles. Obesity stems from deteriorating metabolic health, a condition no current prescription drug, including Ozempic, can address or reverse. Yet, companies like Novo Nordisk and other creators of weight-loss pills persist in promoting their drugs as superior alternatives to preventative care, proper nutrition, and a regular fitness plan.
In truth, obesity is a multifaceted issue far more complex than what Big Pharma portrays.
How Long Do Ozempic Side Effects Last?
After stopping Ozempic, it may take a few weeks for the drug to leave the body — especially at the highest dose of 2 mg — and people may still feel side effects.
How Do I Stop Taking Ozempic?
Bill DeHoog Whole Body Fitness shares how to help someone get off of a weight loss drug, such as Ozempic.
Develop a Food Plan for Insulin Sensitive Goals:
1. Eat protein first!
Choose grass fed and organic meats and aim for 1 gram per pound of body weight. Examples include lean chicken, turkey, beef, eggs, whey protein, and bone broth protein.
2. Eat Fibre: Non-Starchy Vegetables
Think of eating the rainbow - the fibre will feed the bacteria in the gut and start developing a good, healthy microbiome. Aim for 17 to 20 grams of fiber per 100 calories and keep in mind that fermented foods are good additions. Add in at least 2 fruits a day, including apples, oranges, berries, and remember that frozen fruit, and vegetables are also good choices, as well as beans, lentils, raspberries, blueberries, quinoa, chia, and hemp seeds.
3. Eat Healthy Fats
Soak in those flax seeds, avocados, coconut, ghee, walnuts, and assorted seeds, which are all good choices, as is wild caught fish.
Helpful Hints to Note:
Drink lots of water to help with the detox
Berberine is a great supplement to assist with liver metabolization
Help regulate blood sugar and prevent insulin spikes - the goal is to get insulin sensitive
Drink apple cider vinegar with water, 1 hour before eating
Ginger, garlic, cinnamon, milk thistle, ALC are great to try also
Addressing these root causes of obesity and deteriorating metabolic health requires a holistic, whole-body fitness approach involving education and individual behavior modifications rather than relying solely on pharmaceutical solutions.
Are you ready to lose weight, and get healthier - the right way?
Connect with Bill DeHoog today to schedule your free assessment and see what zoom training schedule works best for you!