Ozempic (semaglutide) has gained significant public attention, largely due to its association with weight loss. This article explores its approved uses, how it aids weight reduction, eligibility for prescription, potential side effects, and the care process.
Ozempic’s Primary Purpose and Weight Loss Use
Ozempic is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for specific medical conditions. Its main indication is to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes, alongside diet and exercise. It also reduces the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attack or stroke, in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease. Additionally, it can reduce the risk of worsening kidney disease and cardiovascular death in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.
Ozempic is not FDA-approved specifically for weight loss. However, its active compound, semaglutide, is approved for chronic weight management under the brand name Wegovy. Wegovy is prescribed for adults with obesity or those who are overweight with at least one weight-related health condition. Though sharing the same active ingredient, Ozempic and Wegovy have different approved dosages and indications. Healthcare providers may sometimes prescribe Ozempic off-label for weight loss, meaning it is used for a purpose not formally approved by the FDA.
How Semaglutide Promotes Weight Loss
Semaglutide functions as a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, mimicking a natural hormone that regulates appetite and metabolism. It activates GLP-1 receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, and brain.
This leads to several physiological changes that contribute to weight reduction. Semaglutide slows gastric emptying, promoting fullness and reducing overall food intake. It also influences appetite-regulating centers in the brain, leading to decreased hunger and fewer cravings. Additionally, by enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretion and suppressing glucagon release, it helps stabilize blood sugar levels, which can indirectly support weight management by reducing energy fluctuations and cravings.
Eligibility Criteria for Prescription
Suitability for a semaglutide prescription for weight management involves specific medical criteria. Individuals must meet certain Body Mass Index (BMI) thresholds, including adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher, classified as obesity.
Adults with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or higher, classified as overweight, may also be eligible if they have at least one weight-related comorbidity. These can include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or obstructive sleep apnea. A thorough medical evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary to assess an individual’s overall health history and determine if semaglutide is an appropriate treatment option.
Potential Side Effects and Important Considerations
Semaglutide can cause side effects. The most frequently reported are gastrointestinal, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. These symptoms are often mild to moderate and tend to improve as the body adjusts, especially with gradual dose increases.
More serious risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, acute kidney injury, and vision changes. There is also a boxed warning about the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), observed in rodent studies. It is not yet known if semaglutide causes these tumors in humans, but due to this potential risk, semaglutide is contraindicated in individuals with a personal or family history of MTC or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Patients should also avoid semaglutide if they have a history of severe allergic reactions to the medication or its components.
The Prescription Journey and Ongoing Care
Obtaining a semaglutide prescription for weight management begins with a comprehensive consultation with a healthcare provider. This assessment includes a detailed review of medical history, a physical examination, and potentially blood tests to ensure suitability. Once prescribed, treatment starts with a low dose, gradually increasing over several weeks or months. This dosage titration helps the body adapt and minimizes potential gastrointestinal side effects.
Semaglutide is prescribed as part of a broader, holistic weight management plan. This plan emphasizes significant lifestyle modifications, including adherence to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Ongoing monitoring by the healthcare provider is crucial to assess the medication’s effectiveness, manage any side effects, and make necessary dose adjustments. Consistent use of the medication alongside sustained lifestyle changes is important for achieving and maintaining long-term weight loss.