It’s impossible to ignore, Ozempic and other semaglutide medications have taken the weight loss world by storm. These drugs are everywhere!

Originally developed for managing type 2 diabetes, semaglutide is now widely used for weight loss after the FDA approved it for chronic weight management under the brand name Wegovy in 2021, sparking both excitement and concerns.

But how effective is it?

What are the risks?

And is it really the game-changer people claim it to be?

In this blog, we’ll take an evidence-based, balanced look at semaglutide. Let’s break down the facts, its benefits, side effects, and what you should consider before jumping on the trend

How Does Semaglutide Work?

Semaglutide belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. These medications mimic the GLP-1 hormone, which helps regulate blood sugar, slow digestion, and reduce appetite. As a result, people taking semaglutide tend to eat less, feel fuller longer, and ultimately lose weight.

What’s the difference between Ozempic vs. Wegovy?

Although both Ozempic and Wegovy contain semaglutide, their approved uses differ:

Ozempic is primarily prescribed for type 2 diabetes, though weight loss is a common side effect.

Wegovy is specifically approved for chronic weight management in people with a BMI of 30 or higher (or 27+ with related health conditions like high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol).

How effective Is Semaglutide for weight loss?

Clinical studies have shown that semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss. In a major trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine, participants using semaglutide lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight over 68 weeks when combined with lifestyle interventions, compared to a 2.4% loss in the placebo group (who received lifestyle counseling, including guidance on healthy eating and physical activity, but did not receive semaglutide). Notably, 86.4% of participants in the semaglutide group achieved at least a 5% reduction in body weight, while 69.1% lost 10% or more, and 50.5% shed 15% or more.

Further reinforcing these findings, the STEP 5 trial evaluated the long-term efficacy of semaglutide 2.4 mg over 104 weeks. Participants experienced a mean weight reduction of 15.2% with semaglutide, compared to a 2.6% loss with placebo. Additionally, 77.1% of those on semaglutide achieved a weight loss of 5% or more, versus 34.4% in the placebo group.

Notably, the STEP 5 trial also assessed the impact of semaglutide on eating behaviors over a two-year period. Participants reported significant improvements in controlling cravings, particularly for savory foods, and experienced reduced hunger and increased feelings of fullness. These changes were positively correlated with the degree of weight loss, suggesting that semaglutide not only aids in weight reduction but also enhances control over eating behaviors.

What are the side effects?

1. One of the most overlooked effects of semaglutide is appetite suppression, which causes some people to forget to eat. While this might seem beneficial for weight loss, it can also mean the body isn’t getting the necessary nourishment. Prolonged inadequate intake can lead to fatigue, muscle loss, and nutritional deficiencies, especially if a person isn’t mindful of maintaining a balanced diet.
2. Beyond reduced hunger, other common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Most of these symptoms are mild to moderate and tend to subside over time. However, more serious concerns, such as gallbladder-related disorders (like gallstones), pancreatitis, and thyroid tumors have been reported, particularly in cases of rapid weight loss.

Semaglutide works but what happens when you stop?

Many people assume semaglutide is a miracle drug for weight loss but lifestyle changes still matter.

While semaglutide (Ozempic) can lead to significant weight loss, it’s important to recognize that obesity is a chronic condition, not something that can be “cured” with medication alone. Ozempic is an injectable drug that is typically administered once a week. For weight loss, semaglutide is most effective when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Some studies show that one year after stopping semaglutide, participants regained about two-thirds of the weight they had lost. This reinforces that semaglutide is not a permanent fix but rather a tool that requires ongoing lifestyle management. As with certain medications used to treat chronic conditions such as antihypertensives for high blood pressure, its effects often reverse once the drug is discontinued.

It’s also important to note that semaglutide is not for everyone. Certain groups of individuals, including those with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer, pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with a history of pancreatitis, severe gastrointestinal disorders like gastroparesis, kidney or gallbladder disease, or those at risk for severe hypoglycemia or mental health concerns, should not consider this treatment without consulting a healthcare professional.

Additionally, while current studies provide valuable insights, long-term research is still needed to fully understand the lasting impact of semaglutide on weight maintenance and overall health. What remains clear, however, is that medication alone isn’t enough. Sustainable weight management requires personalized nutrition, mindful eating habits, and behavioral strategies tailored to personal preferences and needs.

Conclusion

Semaglutide has revolutionized weight loss, but it’s not a quick fix. While the science is promising, its long-term success depends on sustainable lifestyle changes. If you’re considering it, consult a healthcare professional to weigh the benefits and risks.

Semaglutide may be everywhere, but is it the right choice for you?

References

Wilding, J. P. H., Batterham, R. L., Calanna, S., Davies, M., Van Gaal, L. F., Lingvay, I., … & Kushner, R. F. (2021). Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine, 384(11), 989–1002. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183

Healthline Editorial Team. (2024, March 17). Semaglutide for weight loss: Benefits, risks, and how it works. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/semaglutide-for-weight-loss

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Semaglutide (subcutaneous route) description. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/semaglutide-subcutaneous-route/description/drg-20406730

Wilding, J. P. H., Batterham, R. L., Davies, M., Van Gaal, L. F., Lingvay, I., McGowan, B. M., … & Rubino, D. (2022). Two-year effect of semaglutide 2.4 mg on control of eating in adults with overweight or obesity: STEP 5. Obesity, 30(10), 2038-2049. https://doi.org/10.1002/oby.23586

Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Davies M, Van Gaal LF, Kandler K, Konakli K, Lingvay I, McGowan BM, Oral TK, Rosenstock J, Wadden TA, Wharton S, Yokote K, Kushner RF; STEP 1 Study Group. Weight regain and cardiometabolic effects after withdrawal of semaglutide: The STEP 1 trial extension. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2022 Aug;24(8):1553-1564. doi: 10.1111/dom.14725. Epub 2022 May 19. PMID: 35441470; PMCID: PMC9542252