Ozempic was approved as a treatment for type 2 diabetes in New Zealand earlier this year but most people probably associate the drug with celebrity slimdowns.
The medicine has proven popular with the Hollywood set for weight loss despite not being approved for that specific purpose.
So, what is it? How does it work? And does it have any side effects?
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a brand name for semaglutide, which is a prescription medicine. It is taken as an injection once a week and is designed for long-term use.
How does it work?
Semaglutide mimics a hormone that is released in the gut when eating. It can prompt the body to make more insulin, reducing blood sugars, which is why it is used to treat some people with type 2 diabetes.
However, it can also suppress appetite and slow down gastric emptying, making people feel fuller for longer. This is why it has also been prescribed off-label for weight loss.
Off-label prescribing is when a doctor gives you a medicine that has been approved for treating a condition different to the one you’re being prescribed it for.
Ozempic was approved by MedSafe for use in New Zealand earlier this year, however it hasn’t been approved for weight loss here.
Many experts recommend people only use Ozempic if they have type 2 diabetes.
What are the potential side effects?
According to the Ozempic website, the most common side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and stomach pain.
However, the website lists more serious potential side effects, too, including pancreatitis, vision changes, low blood sugar, and kidney and gallbladder problems.
Ozempic has also caused thyroid tumours, including cancer, in studies using rodents. The maker of Ozempic says it’s not known if the drug will cause the same in humans, but advises people to contact their doctor if they get a lump or swelling in their neck or have trouble swallowing or shortness of breath.
It’s recommended people also stop using Ozempic two months before planning to become pregnant as the drug’s effect on unborn babies is unknown.
What happens if you stop taking Ozempic?
Like any prescribed medication, experts recommend people consult their doctor before stopping their use of Ozempic.
One study of people who stopped taking semaglutide found participants gained back two-thirds of their previous weight loss within a year.
Why has the use of Ozempic been controversial?
Ozempic’s use for weight loss, especially amongst celebrities, has been a cause of concern for some.
With its reputation as a “quick fix” weight loss solution, the drug has been the centre of the discourse that comes with that. This includes debate around disordered eating and body image issues.
Its popularity as a weight loss tool has also caused global shortages, which poses problems for those who use it as a treatment for diabetes.
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