Ozempic (and similar GLP-1 agonist Wegovy) can be an effective tool in weight loss; however, results cannot be guaranteed.
Numerous factors can impact how well you respond to medication, such as your sleep patterns, stress levels, and diet.
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You have an Underlying Health Condition
Ozempic (semaglutide) was initially developed to treat diabetes and lower risk factors for cardiovascular disease and blood vessel issues. But its unexpected benefit – weight loss – became an unexpected draw that revolutionized its usage, further driving demand. Unfortunately, however, the drug isn’t without risks either.
As well, obesity has been linked with gastroparesis – a condition where food sits too long in the stomach, leading to bloating and flatulence – with severe cases even leading to digestive tract blockages, known as ileus.
These medications, including Ozempic and Wegovy, should be injected once every week into either your thigh or abdomen to mimic natural hormones that signal fullness within our bodies. They have long been prescribed off-label to people without diabetes to help them lose weight more effectively.
You aren’t Taking the Medication as Prescribed
Ozempic (semaglutide), an injectable medication designed to lower blood sugar and curb appetite by mimicking the action of naturally occurring gastrointestinal hormones that signal fullness, often has weight-loss effects as a side-effect; however, for optimal weight management results, it requires consistency with dosages, diet and lifestyle habits and water consumption.
Ozempic is designed to work alongside lifestyle changes like reduced-calorie eating and increased physical activity. Therefore, those with type 2 diabetes who haven’t seen weight loss may want to consider keeping a food journal or consulting with a registered dietitian for extra accountability and guidance, advises Dr. Rao. Additionally, skipping doses is counterproductive as this can set back progress; also, managing high-stress levels helps lower cortisol production, which in turn lowers emotional eating, which ultimately can contribute to weight gain.
You aren’t Following a Healthy Diet
Ozempic and Wegovy are effective anti-obesity medications designed to suppress appetite and increase satiety; however, they should not be seen as quick solutions for bikini season weight loss. Instead, their purpose is to alter metabolism by changing hormones and altering how your stomach processes food.
Unfortunately, if you do not eat healthily while taking these medications, they may not produce the results shown in clinical trials. For instance, eating fatty foods can interfere with semaglutide-based medications by slowing gastric emptying and leading to issues like bloating, nausea, and vomiting.
Alcohol should also be avoided since it can interact with medications and cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels). Eating fruits rich in natural sugars alongside meals containing proteins will also help stabilize your blood sugar levels better.
You aren’t Exercising
Although initially approved to treat type 2 diabetes, the drug has attracted much more attention for its side effect of rapid weight loss. Hashtags such as #OzempicWeightloss have trended on TikTok, while magazines have reported on celebrity usage of the medication to shed pounds quickly while looking fashionable in 90s fashion trends (crop tops and mini skirts).
Ozempic, commonly referred to as semaglutide, works by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone that suppresses digestion and tells your brain you’re full. Taken alongside a reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity, Ozempic may help you shed excess pounds more effectively than ever.
Keep in mind that everyone’s metabolism and body are unique, which is why it is crucial to work closely with your doctor on an individualized health and wellness plan that best suits you.
You have a Pre-existing Medical Condition
Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist medication designed to manage blood sugar in those living with type 2 diabetes and promote weight loss when combined with healthy lifestyle habits and regular physical activity. Furthermore, it may assist those who are overweight or obese in losing weight when used alongside diet and exercise regimens.
Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist medication designed to mimic the naturally occurring digestive hormone that signals digestion and satiation, thus decreasing hunger and food consumption. These medicines also stimulate the production of insulin, which regulates blood sugar.
However, some users with preexisting health conditions can experience unpleasant side effects from pharmaceutical drugs. Nausea and acid reflux or belching are some of the more frequently experienced adverse reactions, sometimes so severe that patients must discontinue taking their medication altogether.