Is happiness a seven-letter word? The type-2 diabetes medication Ozempic has ignited a storm in the wellness industry over the past two years, posing a serious challenge to the Brazilian butt lift (BBL) as the hottest aesthetic trend.
Celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey, Kelly Clarkson, and Whoopi Goldberg have publicly shared their use of weight-loss medication, fueling public curiosity and demand. But what exactly is Ozempic, and why is it generating such buzz?
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic, known generically as semaglutide, is a medication initially prescribed for managing type-2 diabetes. It works by mimicking the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) hormone, which enhances insulin secretion and lowers blood sugar levels. The weight-loss benefits of Ozempic arise from its ability to reduce appetite and hunger signals, making it easier to achieve a caloric deficit.
The drug also slows gastric emptying, prolonging the feeling of fullness and reducing meal frequency. Additionally, Ozempic decreases cravings for sugary and high-calorie foods, aiding in weight loss by limiting consumption of high-energy, refined starches.
Prescription and Usage
In South Africa, Ozempic is primarily registered for diabetes management. It is administered via a weekly self-injection into the stomach, arm, or thigh, with dosage increased incrementally each week. While it helps control diabetes and can sometimes reverse the disease, its off-label use for weight loss began gaining traction in 2021.
Personal Experiences
Tebogo’s Journey: Tebogo started using Saxenda, a similar medication to Ozempic, in April and has lost 9kg. Despite a previous plateau with intermittent fasting, she found Saxenda effective after discussing it with her doctor. Tebogo experienced some side effects, including mood swings and nausea, but adjusted her dosage to alleviate these issues. Notably, she noticed clearer skin and increased energy levels.
Jabu’s Experience: Jabu, another user, reported a 4kg weight loss over two months but struggled with side effects like nausea and diarrhea. He began with a high dose and felt that a supervised approach might have mitigated some of his discomfort.
Risks and Side Effects
Ozempic comes with potential side effects, including gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. It may also cause fatigue, dehydration, and low blood sugar. Long-term use has raised concerns about risks such as thyroid cancer, although definitive proof is lacking. Some users report facial fat loss and other cosmetic effects. There are also concerns about potential impacts on fertility and hormonal balance, including cases of menstruation resuming in post-menopausal women.
Medical Advice
Dr. Carmen Briner stresses the importance of consulting with healthcare providers before starting Ozempic, as it is a prescription medication. Proper dosage management and monitoring are essential to minimize side effects and maximize benefits. Additionally, combining Ozempic with healthy eating and exercise is crucial, as it is not a quick fix but a tool to aid weight loss.
Market Impact
Demand for Ozempic has surged due to its off-label weight-loss use, leading to supply chain disruptions. This has created challenges for diabetic patients who depend on the drug for managing blood sugar levels. Limited availability has caused price fluctuations, with medical aid covering costs if prescribed.
In summary, while Ozempic offers a promising solution for weight loss and diabetes management, it is essential for users to approach it with caution, under medical supervision, and as part of a comprehensive health strategy.
