A weight loss Solution or a Facade?
By Ese Ogaga
As National Diabetes Awareness Month unfolds, the buzz around Ozempic, a medication traditionally prescribed for Type 2 diabetes continues to take an interesting turn. Recently, many people have spoken about its potential for weight loss and raising questions for those considering it beyond its intended purpose. Ozempic works by mimicking a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and insulin, making it highly effective in diabetes management. However, besides its effect in stabilizing blood sugar levels, it has been found to reduce appetite and promote weight loss, leading some to call it a “miracle drug” for losing weight.
While the thought of an easy weight loss process sounds interesting, it’s important to always consider the full picture. Ozempic is not approved specifically for weight loss, and using it for this purpose can lead to side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, and possible risk of thyroid tumors. For those without diabetes, its weight-loss effects may not be sustainable after discontinuing the medication especially if measures are not taken to develop a lifestyle that naturally supports weight loss like healthy diets and active lifestyle.
Availability challenges and high costs also mean it’s not exactly a quick fix. Ozempic could be helpful for people who need to manage both diabetes and weight, but like any medication, it is essential to discuss it with a healthcare provider. Is Ozempic a solution or a facade? This is a choice only consumers can make, ideally with a holistic understanding of both its benefits and potential downsides. To help you make a more informed decision here are 5 key facts that you should note;
Designed for Diabetes
Ozempic was created specifically to help Type 2 diabetes patients manage blood sugar levels, not as a weight-loss drug.
Lack of Long Term Studies
There isn’t enough study done yet on the long term use of Pzempic for weightloss meaning that users could potentially be exposed to more risk and possible side effects as more research unfolds
Appetite Suppression
Ozempic’s effect on appetite is a secondary benefit, leading to weight loss for some users, though the sustainability of this effect without ongoing use is uncertain.
Common Side Effects
Users may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even a potential risk of thyroid tumors, as noted by the FDA.
Accessibility Issues
Increased demand has led to shortages, affecting availability for people using it to manage diabetes.
Consultation is Key
As with any medication, consulting a healthcare provider is essential to fully understand its effects, potential risks, and whether Ozempic aligns with your health needs.
