Ozempic - What is it?

Ozempic – What is it?

Mariana

Ozempic, also known as semaglutide, is a prescription medication that is used by adults for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Its main purpose is to lower blood sugar levels, but it can also be used to reduce the risk of nephropathy as well as heart attacks and stroke in patients with type 2 diabetes. Although it is not officially approved, Ozempic has also gained popularity as a weight loss aid – which is why it feels like everybody is trying to get a hold of this drug. Often the media has made it seem like the ‘magic pill’ that will help you shed pounds quickly. Read further and see why it’s not as great as it may seem….
It should also be noted that Ozempic is not approved for the treatment of type 1 diabetes.

How does Ozempic work?

Ozempic works by mimicking a hormone known as GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). Under normal conditions, this hormone is released when we eat to help balance blood sugar, making us feel satiated and full after a meal. It binds to GLP-1 receptors, increasing insulin release, slowing gastric emptying time, and reducing sugar production by the liver. Since Ozempic is mimicking this hormone, it binds to GLP-1 receptors, producing a similar result. Because Ozempic causes a feeling of fullness and delays gastric emptying time, it helps to control appetite and food intake. By virtue of controlling appetite, it also helps to control cravings.

What are the Benefits of Ozempic?

Lowers blood sugar.

Reduces the risk of nephropathy.

Reduces the risk of adverse cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks.

Decreases the risk of stroke.

Stimulates weight loss.

Decreased risk of colon cancer.

What are the Possible Side Effects of Ozempic?

Nausea.
Diarrhea.
Stomach pain.
Low blood sugar.
Vomiting.
Constipation.
Vision changes.
Allergic reactions such as the swelling of the face, lips, and throat.
Dehydration.
Gallstones or Gallbladder inflammation.
Changes to your appearance
Loss of lean muscle mass

The Loss of Muscle Mass

Studies have shown that, while many people who use Ozempic experience significant levels of weight loss, a large portion of this is due to the loss of muscle mass, not fat. In general, it has been reported that patients can lose up to 15 pounds of muscle during treatment. This is significant because the loss of muscle mass can lead to a host of issues:

Reductions in strength and mobility.
Loss in ability to perform activities of daily living.
Slowed metabolism.
Increased fall and accident risk.

This effect is especially concerning for older adults, particularly post-menopausal women, who already face a natural decline in muscle mass due to aging.