The Ozempic Craze Continues: What Is The Hype About?

Every couple of years we witness a major health trend that turns out to be harmful in the long run or is revealed to be questionable from the start. For instance, the trend to consume the GLP-1 drug Ozempic to lose weight, came to the forefront as celebrities and public figures such as Amy Schumer, Oprah Winfrey and Elon Musk began began discussing the reason behind their extreme body transformations.

What Is GLP-1?

Well, Ozempic is a prescription medication primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes by helping regulate blood sugar levels. The active ingredient in Ozempic is a Semaglutide, which belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. It works by mimicking the action of a hormone called GLP-1, which stimulates insulin production, slows down digestion, and reduces the release of glucose from the liver. But, besides its diabetes management benefits, Ozempic has garnered attention for its potential to aid in weight loss. This off-label use has made it particularly popular, leading to widespread discussion, especially on social media.

But beyond its virality, the use of GLP-1 drugs for cosmetic reasons rather than medical necessity has raised ethical questions, including concerns over shortages for diabetic patients. Especially since Kourtney Kardashian recently released an over-the-counter version of Ozempic called GLP-1 Daily under her wellness brand Lemme, which does not even require a doctor’s prescription.

It seems as though we’re moving towards consuming the drug and its variations without quite grasping its ill effects as a collective. But let’s get a clear picture of which other drugs are classified as GLP-1 drugs; Victoza, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Saxenda are some, all of which are administered via injections.

But, Victoza and Saxenda are Liraglutide, whereas Ozempic, and Wegovy are Semaglutide, and Moujaro is a Tirzepatide. Liraglutide only lasts for upto 13-15 hours, whereas Semaglutide lasts for up to 165 hours in the body. As forTirzepatide, it has been proven to help with obesity more than Semaglutide as it is said to invoke feelings of fullness (meal-related) and wave off excessive eating habits.

But what are GLP-1 drugs’ side effects?

Earlier this month, reports of Kate Moss’ sister Lottie being hospitalised for misusing Ozempic emerged online. Lottie spoke about experiencing seizures from dehydration as a result of taking a much larger dose of the drug than needed on her podcast. A truly horrific example of everything that could go wrong while taking a formula is encapsulated in this account of her’s.

As we spoke to Dr. Danendra Sahu, an Endocrinologist from Fortis, Delhi we gained more clarity about GLP-1 drugs and their negative impacts. “These drugs are effective and safe for long-term use when used under medical supervision. Initially, a few individuals may develop nausea and vomiting with its use. In addition, some individuals may feel flatulence, indigestion, and loss of appetite with these drugs. These side effects can be managed with the use of dietary changes and other medicines. Sometimes the dose of the medicines need to be changed to manage the side effects. Other side effects include pancreatitis and risk of hypoglycemia when used by individuals with diabetes. Therefore, though these drugs have been found to be effective and safe, one should keep these side effects in mind when taking these drugs and consult a doctor to manage them.”

Other than this, it seems that a misuse or abuse of Ozempic can also show up in one’s physical appearance. “It can cause facial side effects that some call the “Ozempic face.” It can cause sagging of the facial skin, increased signs of aging, such as more lines and wrinkles, loss of fat, which can lead to a hollowed out appearance in the face.” Dr. Shubhi Hussain founder of Health Sanctuary tells us.

But aside from the expected side effects or changes in the physical appearance, misusing GLP-1 drugs can lead to some serious health concerns, “Less common but more severe adverse events may include: Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), low blood sugar, (hypoglycemia), vision changes, increased risk of thyroid cancer or tumours, allergic reactions like skin rash, swelling, breathing difficulties,” says Dr Shubhi adding to the conversation. She also goes on to guide us about who should be cautious of the drug.

“In addition, Ozempic may not be safe for certain individuals with previously diagnosed medical conditions. Conditions such as, a history of pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, kidney disease, thyroid disorders (like medullary thyroid carcinoma), multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), retinopathy (eye problems) or any digestive disorders. Ozempic should also not be prescribed to pregnant women, women who are trying to conceive, or women who are breastfeeding.”

So, while GLP-1 drugs may be a source of freedom and confidence for those who’d been struggling with weight issues, there is a lot to consider before deciding to consume them. From the dosage to pre-existing health concerns and whether or not it’ll solve a chronic health concern. Especially since, many diabetic patients require the formula more than a person who can tackle their health concerns via alternate methods.