Ozempic has become a global phenomenon for its dramatic weight-loss effects. But beneath the hype lies a complex medical story involving diabetes care, digestive changes, and potential health risks that every patient should know.
GLP-1 medication,specifically Ozempic, has been on the buzz for years, employed by numerous influencers and – according to rumour mills – Hollywood celebrities for its incredible weight-loss results. However, its use as a weight management tool has long been controversial, considering that it is prescribed as medicine for those with diabetes.
Regardless, its effects on both diabetic patients and regular enthusiasts cannot be denied. But like any drug, Ozempic does have its downsides.
So let’s take a look at what it actually does – and what you should keep in mind if you are considering it for yourself.
What Is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a brand name for semaglutide, which is used in the treatment of those with type 2 diabetes. It is a type of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist, which is designed to mimic the natural GLP-1 hormone in your body.
GLP-1 regulates the amount of insulin released in your gut after eating, slows down the digestion process, and gives you a feeling of fullness. This means that if your body is on Ozempic, the result will be greater insulin secretion, lower blood sugar levels, and less hunger.
Why People Want to Get on Ozempic
While the advantages are more obvious for people with diabetes, research shows positive impacts on other body systems as well.
Weight Loss
This is probably the most hyped-up benefit of GLP-1s like Ozempic.
It works by increasing the time it takes for food to leave your stomach, keeping you full for longer. As such, you can create a calorie deficit through the suppression of your appetite, thus enabling you to more easily lose weight.
Improved Blood Sugar Control
Insulin is a hormone that reduces blood sugar levels. Since Ozempic can help increase the production of it in response to food consumption, it thus decreases your likelihood of seeing a spike in your blood sugar after meals.
Protective Effects on Certain Organs
Since high blood sugar levels can be damaging to the kidneys, reducing it can help delay the development of chronic kidney disease.
In addition, semaglutide has been found to lower the risk of serious cardiovascular issues, such as a heart attack or stroke. Research also suggests that it could ease certain symptoms tied to heart failure, such as fatigue or shortness of breath.
Neurocognitive Benefits
Beyond weight and metabolic control, recent studies suggest that GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic may also benefit the brain.
Research from Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre found that semaglutide could potentially support cognitive function and reduce nicotine dependence. Other findings indicate that GLP-1 receptor agonists may improve blood flow and glucose metabolism in the brain, which are critical for memory and learning.
Some early research also points to possible protective effects against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, due to the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties of the medication.
Watching Out for the Side Effects of GLP-1s
Despite all the proven benefits of Ozempic, this medicine does come with some pretty concerning (and surprising) downers.
Gastric Problems
The impact of Ozempic on our digestive system is not always good.
The delayed gastric emptying can lead to stomach pain, constipation, diarrhoea, and nausea or vomiting. In fact, these are the most common side effects of being on Ozempic.
Pancreatitis
In more severe cases, Ozempic can also cause the inflammation and swelling of the pancreas. This could be due to its involvement in food digestion and insulin production.
So if you notice yourself experiencing the symptoms of pancreatitis, including a distended abdomen or abdominal pain that radiates to your back, get to a doctor immediately.
Gallbladder Issues
Ozempic can also increase the risk of gallstones. Gallstones prevent bile, a fluid that helps break down fats, from flowing from the liver to the gut.
Note that if you develop gallstones, or gallbladder disease, you might experience pain on the right of your stomach.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a type of eye disease that some people may experience when they are on Ozempic, especially if they have already had retinopathy prior to starting on this medication. Its symptoms include blurry vision, floaters, and even vision loss.
Kidney Injury
Unfortunately, Ozempic can also do a lot of harm to the kidneys. The chances of this increases if you are suffering from severe diarrhoea or vomiting while taking the medicine, or if you are not keeping yourself sufficiently hydrated.
If you have got kidney damage, you could be experiencing greater confusion or fatigue, or swelling in your ankles or feet. You may also find yourself urinating less than you normally would.
Thyroid Cancer
In animal studies, Ozempic was discovered to cause thyroid tumours. While this has not been proven in humans, note that the risk may be there.
The medicine is also not recommended to you if you have a family history of thyroid cancer.
“Ozempic Face”
Even as Ozempic makes you slimmer, faster, it also comes with an undesirable aesthetic consequence.
As Dr Rachel Ho, Medical Director of La Clinic, explained it in The Straits Times: “The disappearance of facial fat pads causes a gaunt face. The sudden deflation of facial volume can also result in loose, sagging skin. Loss of facial volume and stretch in the face also accentuate wrinkles and lines.”
“Ozempic Vulva”
A less discussed but increasingly reported side effect is what some are calling “Ozempic vulva” – a term popularised on social media to describe vulvar discomfort, dryness, or sagging skin after rapid fat reduction in the pelvic area.
Doctors suggest this may be due to overall loss of fat pads, as well as hormonal shifts that accompany sudden weight loss, rather than a direct side effect of the medication. This sensational term is also a reminder that medical supervision and gradual progress matter more than speed.
Is Ozempic Worth It?
For many people, this medicine has given a major boost to their physical health, as well as their self-image.
However, the benefits do not always outweigh the costs, and such a medication is not suitable for everyone. If you have been thinking about starting on Ozempic, have a chat with your doctor. They can tell you more about the risks and side effects, and the type of results you can expect.
Remember, when it comes to your health, informed choices will always win over quick fixes.
