Ozempic (Semaglutide) for Weight Loss: The Benefits and Side Effects

Introduction Ozempic (semaglutide), manufactured by Novo Nordisk, is a once-weekly injectable drug that manages insulin levels and is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in type two diabetics.

In 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Ozempic as a treatment for chronic weight management in individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or with a BMI of 27 or higher and at least one weight-related medical condition.

Ozempic has recently become popular as a weight loss trend on social media, particularly on TikTok, where hashtags like #ozempic and #ozempicweightloss have garnered over 703 million views.

The medication's popularity has led to shortages, including its obesity treatment counterpart, Wegovy. The weight loss effect of Ozempic is attributed to its ability to reduce appetite and slow down the emptying of the stomach, leading to reduced calorie intake.

Studies have shown Ozempic to be an effective weight loss drug, with one study finding participants who took the drug saw a 14.9% decrease in body weight.

How Does Semaglutide Work? Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which is used to help control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Recently, a higher dose of semaglutide has been approved for weight loss in adults with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or greater who have at least one weight-related condition.

Ozempic is taken once a week by injection using a pre-filled pen. The dosage depends on the patient's weight, medical history, and response to treatment. The medication is injected subcutaneously into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, and patients should rotate the injection site to avoid skin reactions.

It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions provided by a healthcare professional.

How Effective is Semaglutide for Weight Loss? Clinical trials have shown that semaglutide is effective for weight loss. In a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in February 2021, researchers found that adults with obesity who took semaglutide lost an average of 15.3% of their body weight over 68 weeks, compared to 2.6% in the placebo group. The most common side effects were nausea and diarrhea, but these were generally mild and resolved over time.

While Ozempic has been shown to be an effective weight loss treatment, it does come with potential side effects. The most common side effects of Ozempic include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. These side effects are usually mild and temporary, but it is important to speak with a healthcare professional if you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects.

What is ‘Ozempic Face’? "Ozempic face" is a term used to describe the changes in facial appearance that some people experience while taking semaglutide.

In a study published in the journal Obesity in February 2021, researchers found that participants who took semaglutide experienced a reduction in facial fat, resulting in sagging skin and loss of elasticity making people look older.

"Ozempic face" has been viewed 3.2 million times on TikTok, with users sharing their stories of the side effect, and healthcare professionals offering insights.

Fat loss from the face is “very common with any weight loss,” Silvana Obici, chief of endocrinology and metabolism division at Stony Brook Medicine told Healthline. Substantial weight loss can cause people to look older as a result of wrinkled, loose skin. According to a 2019 study, excess skin is directly linked to “massive weight loss.” However, fat loss while taking weight loss drugs like Ozempic happens across the body, not just in one area like the face. A study found it’s not possible to only reduce fat in specific areas of the body.

How to Avoid ‘Ozempic Face’ Losing a significant amount of weight is an incredible accomplishment that can greatly improve your health and quality of life. However, one of the common side effects of weight loss is loose, sagging skin, which can be frustrating and negatively impact your confidence. If you're experiencing loose, sagging skin after weight loss, Morpheus8 may be the solution you're looking for.

Morpheus8 is a fractional radiofrequency microneedling device that uses tiny needles to deliver radiofrequency energy to the deeper layers of the skin. This process stimulates collagen and elastin production, which results in firmer, tighter skin with improved texture and tone. Morpheus8 is an effective treatment for sagging skin on both the face and body.

At Dripology Medspa, we have a team of highly skilled and experienced medical professionals who are dedicated to providing our patients with the best possible care. Our team works closely with our patients to create personalized treatment plans that are tailored to their specific needs and goals. We take the time to listen to our patients and ensure they receive the best possible results from their treatments.

If you're considering Morpheus8 for sagging skin after weight loss, our experienced and knowledgeable team at Dripology Medspa can help. During your consultation, we will assess your skin and discuss your desired outcomes to determine the best course of treatment for you. We can also create a customized treatment plan that may include a combination of treatments to help you achieve your desired outcomes.

Booking an appointment at Dripology Medspa is easy and convenient. You can easily book your appointment online at www.dripology.co, where you can select the date and time that works best for you, all from the comfort of your own home.

If you're ready to say goodbye to sagging skin after weight loss, Morpheus8 treatments from our caring and compassionate team at Dripology Medspa may be a good option for you. To book your appointment, visit our website at www.dripology.co today. We look forward to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals and feel confident in your own skin.