Ozempic Face and Other Negative Consequences of Using Ozempic for Weight Loss

Ozempic (semaglutide) has recently gained popularity as a weight loss drug, despite only being approved by the FDA for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk reduction. Using Ozempic for weight loss is considered off-label and may not be covered by insurance. While Ozempic has been shown to be effective at promoting weight loss, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and negative consequences of using it for this purpose.

Potential Risks

One of the potential risks of using Ozempic for weight loss is the development of gallstones and associated problems like pancreatitis. Rapid weight loss can increase the risk of gallstone formation, and Ozempic can cause weight loss to occur quickly. In addition, using Ozempic for weight loss may result in loose skin and vitamin deficiencies if a person is not getting enough nutrition in their diet.

Another negative consequence of using Ozempic as a weight loss drug is the development of "Ozempic face," a term used to describe the rapid aging in the face as a result of extreme weight loss. This is likely seen more often in those who are taking Ozempic for small amounts of vanity weight loss, rather than for obesity or type 2 diabetes. It is not caused by the medicine itself, but by the weight lost from the medicine.

It is also important to remember that GLP-1 medications like Ozempic affect everyone differently, and some people may experience more severe side effects than others. Most people tolerate GLP-1 medications pretty well, but some may experience moderate to severe nausea. It is important to keep the dose low and only increase it as tolerated each month according to the label. Patients should be on the lowest effective dose.

In addition to the potential risks and negative consequences listed above, Ozempic may cause serious side effects such as thyroid C-cell tumors, pancreatitis, diabetic retinopathy, allergic reactions, kidney problems, and low blood sugar. Common side effects of Ozempic include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, headache, dizziness, and fatigue. Some of these side effects are similar to eating disorder symptoms and may seriously affect your mental health.

Ozempic Cost and Availability

Ozempic may be expensive and hard to find. The average cost of Ozempic is about $800 per month without insurance. There is also a global supply shortage of semaglutide due to high demand and manufacturing issues. You may have to wait for a long time or pay a premium price to obtain the medication. It is important to discuss the cost and availability of Ozempic with your healthcare provider and insurance company before considering it as a weight loss option.

This shortage may make it difficult for people who need the medication for its intended use, such as treating type 2 diabetes, to access it. Using Ozempic for weight loss may take resources away from patients who need it for its intended use.

Furthermore, while some people are turning to compounding pharmacies for compounded semaglutide to bypass the shortage, compounded drugs are not FDA-approved and their quality and efficacy cannot be guaranteed. Using compounded GLP-1 agonists for vanity weight loss adds an extra element of unstudied territory.

Consult a Healthcare Professional

It is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any weight loss program, and to only use medications for their intended purpose. Ozempic may not be very effective for weight loss by itself, and the average weight loss with Ozempic is about 5% to 10% of body weight after one year of treatment. You may need to combine Ozempic with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise to achieve your weight loss goals.

Ozempic may also interact with other medications you are taking, such as oral contraceptives, warfarin, or insulin. You should consult your doctor before using Ozempic and inform them of all the drugs you are taking.

Conclusion

In summary, using Ozempic for weight loss is considered off-label and may come with potential risks and negative consequences, including gallstone formation, loose skin, vitamin deficiencies, "Ozempic face," and taking resources away from those who need it for its intended use. It may also cause serious side effects and interact with other medications.

It is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any weight loss program, and to only use medications for their intended purpose. Combining Ozempic with lifestyle changes may be necessary to achieve weight loss goals, and the cost and availability of the medication should be discussed with healthcare providers and insurance companies.