Ozempic for weight loss is a weekly injectable that contains semaglutide, an appetite suppressant that aids in weight loss. While it is a pharmaceutical medication primarily used to help people with diabetes manage their blood sugar levels, scientific research also supports its use as a safe and effective weight loss aid for obese individuals.
How Does Ozempic Work?
Ozempic mimics GLP-1, a hormone your body naturally produces. This hormone is released by your digestive system when you eat and plays a key role in how full you feel after a meal by interacting with your brain and digestive tract. It helps slow the passage of food through your stomach and into your digestive system.
In addition to appetite control, GLP-1 regulates insulin production after meals for better blood sugar management (potentially lowering blood sugar levels) and signals to your brain that you’ve eaten enough.
Ozempic extends feelings of fullness, reduces appetite, and enhances your body’s regulation of blood sugar levels and fat storage. As a result, patients who use Ozempic can achieve weight loss.
How To Lose Weight With Ozempic
You’ll start with the lowest dose of 0.25 mg and gradually increase to a 1 mg dose over an eight-week period. This gradual increase helps minimize common side effects like nausea as your body acclimates to the medication.
Ozempic comes with single-use needles and is pre-filled in a pen-like injectable device. It includes detailed instructions and takes just two minutes to administer.
To use, insert a fresh needle into your Ozempic pen, select your dosage, and press the pen against the skin of your upper arm, upper thigh, or stomach while holding the injector button. It’s that straightforward.
Who Can Use Ozempic For Weight Loss?
Ozempic is suitable for most people who are clinically obese or severely overweight with a weight-related health issue.
You are eligible to use Ozempic for weight loss if you are between 18 and 75 years old and meet any of the following criteria:
- You have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more (clinically obese);
- You have a body mass index of 27 or more (significantly overweight);
- You have a medical condition that is often caused or worsened by excess body weight.
Who Should Avoid Using Ozempic For Weight Loss?
While most individuals can safely use Ozempic for weight loss, certain medications and health conditions may increase safety risks. Consult a health professional before using Ozempic if you have any of the following:
- An allergy to any of the ingredients in the medication;
- Diabetes and are using insulin or specific other medications;
- Kidney issues;
- Certain digestive system conditions;
- A history of eating disorders;
- Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or attempting to get pregnant.