Everyone under the sun has heard of Ozempic in the last few years, with the drug being the topic of many internet discussion boards and press articles. To some in the tabloid circles, it appears to be a shortcut to a better summer figure. To others, it’s a life-altering medication that enhances health week after week. But how does Ozempic work and is it actually the right drug for weight loss?
This blog will explore the mechanics of Ozempic, along with highlighting how it stacks up in today’s landscape of weight loss injections.
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic was developed by Novo Nordisk as a medication for type 2 diabetes, using the active ingredient semaglutide. It’s administered as injections that can be self-administered on a weekly basis. Treatment starts with the lowest dose, with patients increasing their dose every four weeks until they find the optimum amount for their needs.
Not a “weight loss drug”
When considering how Ozempic works, it’s important to remember that it’s not actually prescribed as a drug for weight loss anymore. The reason Ozempic became so popular for weight loss was that it was prescribed “off-label”. Now, semaglutide is prescribed to support weight loss efforts in the form of Wegovy.
How does Ozempic work for weight loss?
Semaglutide mimics the function of GLP-1 or Glucagon-Like Peptide-1, regulating blood sugar (for diabetes patients), while also contributing to appetite control. Weight loss was never intended to be the primary focus of Ozempic, however, it was quickly discovered to be a beneficial side effect.
Insulin release
GLP-1 (and by proxy, semaglutide drugs) stimulates the release of insulin from the pancreas. This regulates blood sugar, protecting people from the dangers of type-2 diabetes, along with regulating appetite.
Glucagon secretion
Ozempic further regulates blood sugar by suppressing the release of glucagon from the pancreas. Glucagon comes from the pancreas as a trigger for your liver to release more sugar into the bloodstream. Preventing the overproduction, especially between meals and overnight, further safeguards against diabetic dangers.
Gastric emptying effects
Glucagon reduction also helps to slow down the rate at which food leaves your stomach at, contributing to more consistent feelings of long-term fullness. This helps to reduce overall food intake and prevent post-meal blood sugar spikes.
Along with all of these physical responses, Ozempic also triggers GLP-1 receptors in your brain, which can include a reduction in hunger signal response, aiding with lower calorie consumption. However, while it can work as an aid for weight loss, there have been reports of “Ozempic not working” with people who don’t make the necessary lifestyle changes of reduced calories and increased exercise.
How long does Ozempic take to work?
So, how quickly does Ozempic work? Well, as it’s not a “weight loss drug” and every human body is different, there’s no way to know for sure how fast it will work. Many patients do report results in a matter of weeks. Ozempic might not be the best pathway for weight loss, despite becoming such a hot topic in recent years. If you’re interested in learning more about Ozempic and other weight loss drugs, make sure to check out our blog today.
