Are you struggling to lose weight despite trying every diet and exercise plan out there? If so, you may have heard of Ozempic, a medication that has been gaining popularity as a potential weight loss solution. It was recently described as "the worst kept secret in Hollywood" with many celebrities reportedly taking the drug to get red carpet ready. But what exactly is Ozempic, and is it really the ultimate weight loss solution?
In this article, we'll look at the pros and cons of Ozempic, as well as everything you need to know about this medication.
So, whether you're considering Ozempic or simply curious about its potential as a weight loss aid, keep reading to learn more!
What is Ozempic and how does it work?
Ozempic (semaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable medication that was originally designed to treat type 2 diabetes. It works by mimicking the effects of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which is produced by the body to regulate blood sugar levels. This hormone helps to stimulate insulin secretion, slow down digestion, and reduce appetite. The reduction in appetite, leads to decreased calorie intake which results in weight loss.
The pros of using Ozempic for weight loss
One of the biggest pros of using Ozempic for weight loss is its effectiveness. Clinical trials have shown that Ozempic can help patients lose significant amounts of weight. Studies have shown, overweight and obese patients who took Ozempic lost around 15% of their body weight over a 68 week period, compared to 2.4% in the placebo group.
Another advantage of Ozempic is its convenience. Unlike some weight loss medications, which require daily dosing, Ozempic is only injected once a week. This can make it easier for patients to stick to their treatment regimen and achieve their weight loss goals.
The cons of using Ozempic for weight loss
While Ozempic has many benefits, it also has some potential drawbacks.
Like all medications, Ozempic can cause side effects in some patients. The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.
Questions have been raised about more serious side effects such as thyroid tumours. Lab studies have linked GLP-1 drugs (such as Ozempic) with thyroid tumors in rodents. However, at present, the risk to humans isn't completely clear and studies are ongoing to monitor the longer term effects. As it stands, Ozempic is not recommended if you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Another factor to consider is life after Ozempic. Some studies have shown that once people cease Ozempic, the regain a considerable portion of the weight they have lost. Therefore if you decide to use Ozempic, it is essential to incorporate lifestyle changes in addition to the medication in order to sustain the results.
Another significant downside of using Ozempic is its cost. On the PBS, Ozempic costs approximately $40 per month, whereas on private prescription, costs are likely to be in the vicinity of $160 - $180 per month.
Ozempic vs. other weight loss solutions
If you're considering Ozempic for weight loss, you may be wondering how it compares to other weight loss solutions, such as diet and exercise or other medications. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, Ozempic may be a good option for people who have not been able to achieve significant weight loss through diet and exercise alone. It may also be a good option for people who have tried other weight loss medications without success.
The reality is that while weight loss is possible using a range of different options, it is the long term maintenance weight loss that is challenging. Research has shown that in general, for those who have lost weight, more than half of the lost weight is regained within two years and by 5 years, more than 80% of the lost weight is regained.
Who should take Ozempic?
You might be a good candidate for Ozempic if you have
Tried multiple diets and had difficulty losing weight
A family history of Type 2 Diabetes or Gestational diabetes
A waist measurement greater than 100cm
Severe cravings and find that food dominates your thinking
However, it's important to note that Ozempic is not a magic pill. It should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise to achieve optimal results. Additionally, patients should talk to their GP about their weight loss goals and medical history to determine if Ozempic is the right choice for them.
Is Ozempic the ultimate weight loss solution?
So, is Ozempic the ultimate weight loss solution? While it certainly has many benefits, including its effectiveness and convenience, it's important to remember that it's not a magic pill. Lifestyle change in terms of nutrition, exercise, sleep and stress management should absolutely be used in conjunction with a medication such as Ozempic if you want to maximise your results AND maintain them.
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