You may have heard of Ozempic, the drug sweeping the nation as it is increasingly used as an off-label treatment for weight loss, or perhaps you even take Ozempic yourself. But what is Ozempic, and is it really as safe as it claims?
Is Ozempic for Weight Loss?
Ozempic is an FDA-approved prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists, or GLP-1 RA for short. In essence, this means that the drug is intended to mimic a naturally occurring hormone, GLP-1, which helps your body release enough insulin to properly control your blood sugar levels. These drugs work by activating the same receptors in your body as GLP-1, which can help individuals with type 2 diabetes in managing their blood sugar levels. Ozempic helps manage blood sugar levels in individuals with Type 2 diabetes. Other drugs, such as Rybelsus and Wegovy, utilize the same active ingredient as Ozempic, semaglutide, to produce similar results. Other active ingredients that can be used as GLP-1 receptor agonists in medications include dulaglutide (also known as Trulicity) and tirzepatide (also known as Mounjaro) to achieve the same result. Ozempic is less likely to cause low blood sugar events compared to insulin.
How Ozempic Works
Ozempic is a once-weekly injectable medication that works by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone in the body called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). This hormone plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. When you take Ozempic, it stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin, which helps lower blood sugar levels. Additionally, it reduces the release of glucagon, a hormone that typically raises blood sugar levels. By activating GLP-1 receptors throughout the body, Ozempic enhances the effects of this naturally occurring hormone, leading to improved blood sugar control and promoting weight loss. This dual action makes Ozempic an effective tool for managing both blood sugar and body weight.
Can Ozempic Be Used for Chronic Weight Management?
A growing number of studies have demonstrated that these same drugs can slow down how fast your stomach empties food, which in practice meant that people taking these medications could feel full for longer, and as a result, some of these individuals lost weight. These medications can help individuals lose weight when combined with lifestyle changes. In 2021, Wegovy (which uses the same active ingredient as Ozempic) was approved by the FDA for weight management, the first medication to obtain such approval since 2014. Wegovy and Ozempic are the same medication but approved for different uses. At present, most other drugs in this class, such as Ozempic and Trulicity, are still only approved by the FDA to treat diabetes. But that hasn’t stopped the increased marketing or usage of these medications for off-label use as a weight loss drug.
Benefits and Risks of Ozempic
Ozempic offers several benefits for individuals with type 2 diabetes. It has been shown to improve blood sugar control, aid in weight loss, and reduce the risk of major adverse coronary events. These benefits make it a valuable option for those struggling to manage their diabetes and body weight. However, like any medication, Ozempic comes with potential risks and side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. These are usually short-term and tend to improve within a few days to a few weeks after starting Ozempic or adjusting the dose. More serious side effects can include pancreatitis, thyroid cancer, and multiple endocrine neoplasia. It’s essential to be aware of these risks and discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting Ozempic.
But is Ozempic safe?
Recently, an increasing number of individuals have reported serious side effects and even injuries as a result of taking Ozempic and other similar drugs. Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher are considered obese and may be prescribed Ozempic for weight loss. Some individuals have reported feeling full longer than intended, in some cases even for days at a time. Other side effects have included nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain, side effects that Ozempic initially claimed would decrease over time. Ozempic removed mention of these side effects from the instructions given to medical providers on what information to provide to patients in 2020 after being listed since 2017, despite studies indicating these side effects can be common.
More serious reported side effects have included bowel obstructions, pancreatitis, and diseases affecting the gallbladder and other parts of the biliary system, side effects which can have serious and potentially long-term effects on those who suffer from them. More recently, a 2023 study has linked Ozempic and other similar medications to increasing the likelihood of developing gastroparesis, also known as stomach paralysis, a side effect that Ozempic did not propose to the FDA. Gastroparesis can contribute to nausea and vomiting, acid reflux, and the development of stomach blockages. In severe cases, gastroparesis can cause serious complications such as malnutrition, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalance. Ozempic is specifically used for weight loss in individuals with type 2 diabetes and obesity, highlighting both its benefits and limitations in managing these conditions.
References:
[1] Novo Nordisc, “Highlights of Prescribing Information,” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Drugs@FDA, Dec. 2017. [Online]. Available: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/209637lbl.pdf
[2] Novo Nordisc, “Highlights of Prescribing Information,” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Drugs@FDA, Jan. 2020. [Online]. Available: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/209637s003lbl.pdf
[3] U.S. Food and Drug Administration, “FDA Approves New Drug Treatment for Chronic Weight Management, First Since 2014,” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, June 2021. [Online] Available: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-drug-treatment-chronic-weight-management-first-2014
[4] V. Preda, S. S. Khoo, T. Preda, and R. V. Lord, “Gastroparesis with bezoar formation in patients treated with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists: potential relevance for bariatric and other gastric surgery,” Oxford University Press, Feb. 2021. [Online]. Available: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9891341/
[5] P. Cure, A. Pileggi, and R. Alejandro, “Exenatide and Rare Adverse Events,” The New England Journal of Medicine, May 2008. [Online]. Available: https://libraryguides.vu.edu.au/ieeereferencing/technicalreports
Safety and Long-Term Use
Ozempic is generally considered safe for long-term use in adults with type 2 diabetes. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if Ozempic is right for you and to discuss any potential risks or concerns. It’s important to note that while Ozempic is not officially approved for weight loss, its use for this purpose is considered off-label. If you’re thinking about using Ozempic for weight loss, it’s vital to discuss the potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider and carefully weigh the pros and cons.
Clinical trials have shown that Ozempic is safe and effective for up to 26 weeks, but the long-term effects on weight loss and other health outcomes are not yet fully understood and require further study. Working closely with a healthcare provider to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed is essential. Remember, Ozempic is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. Combining it with a balanced diet and regular exercise is crucial to achieve and maintain weight loss. Additionally, Ozempic may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with a history of pancreatitis, thyroid cancer, or multiple endocrine neoplasia.
Why Choose Hollis Law Firm for Your Case?
If you’ve experienced severe side effects from Ozempic or similar drugs, we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. With over 15 years of experience in pharmaceutical law, we combine legal knowledge with a deep understanding of the science behind harmful prescription drugs and medical devices. We stay informed on the latest research to better represent individuals like you who have been injured.
At Hollis Law Firm, we focus on ensuring that those harmed by medications such as Ozempic have their voices heard. Reach out to us today to discuss your case. You can contact us through our form or at (800) 701-3672.
