Ozempic Under the Microscope: Potential Side Effects and Health Concerns

Ozempic, Mounjaro and WeGovy aregroundbreaking medications for managing type 2 diabetes that have generated significant excitement in the medical community and those who want to lose weight.

It has been praised for its effectiveness in controlling blood sugar levels and aiding in weight loss, However, like any medication, it comes with its own set of potential side effects and risks. As its popularity soars, it is crucial to understand both the benefits and the possible health concerns associated with Ozempic to make informed decisions about its use.

Here are some of the key health risks and side effects associated with Ozempic (semaglutide) from Harvard health, the mayo clinic and other reputable sites:

Common side effects are as follows:

Gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain.
Headache
Fatigue
Dizziness

Some of the more serious potential risks are:

Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
Gallbladder problems including gallstones
Kidney problems
Diabetic retinopathy (eye damage)
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially if used with insulin
Increased risk of thyroid tumors/cancer (boxed warning)
Allergic reactions

Other reported issues:

“Ozempic face” – facial aging/sagging due to rapid weight loss
Potential psychiatric effects like depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts (rare)
Gastroparesis (stomach paralysis)

Lately, there are several key concerns about losing lean muscle mass while taking Ozempic (semaglutide) for weight loss:

Reduced strength and function: Losing muscle mass can lead to weakness, fatigue, and decreased ability to perform daily activities, especially in older adults. This could increase the risk of falls and injuries.
Metabolic impacts: Muscle tissue plays an important role in metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and glucose regulation. Significant muscle loss could potentially disrupt these metabolic functions.
Lower resting metabolic rate: As muscle mass decreases, a person’s resting metabolic rate also decreases, which can make further weight loss more challenging and increase the risk of weight regain.
Bone density concerns: Rapid weight loss, including muscle loss, may also impact bone density, especially in older adults who are already at increased risk of osteoporosis.
Sarcopenia risk: Rapid weight loss without proper nutrition and exercise can lead to sarcopenia, a condition characterized by progressive loss of muscle mass and function, typically associated with aging.
“Skinny fat” phenomenon: While overall weight decreases, the proportion of body fat may increase relative to muscle mass, potentially leading to a higher body fat percentage despite a lower overall weight.
Potential long-term health impacts: The long-term effects of muscle loss from these medications are not yet fully understood, as they are relatively new.
Difficulty regaining muscle: If patients discontinue the medication, regained weight tends to be primarily fat, with muscle mass not fully recovering.

Insiders Health Tip:

To mitigate these concerns, experts recommend:

Maintaining a high-protein diet
Engaging in regular resistance training and physical activity
Monitoring overall health and body composition
Discussing any concerns with healthcare providers

More research is needed, particularly in older adults, to fully understand the impacts of these medications on muscle mass and long-term health outcomes.

It’s important to note that while Ozempic can cause side effects, it is generally considered safe when used as prescribed for approved indications. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal in nature. More severe side effects are rare but possible. Patients should work closely with their doctor to monitor for and manage any side effects. The benefits of treatment need to be weighed against potential risks for each individual patient.

References:

https://www.ozempic.com/how-to-take/side-effects.html

https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/glp-1-diabetes-and-weight-loss-drug-side-effects-ozempic-face-and-more

https://www.baptisthealth.com/blog/health-and-wellness/risks-of-taking-ozempic-for-weight-loss

https://www.drugwatch.com/drugs/ozempic/side-effects/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/semaglutide-subcutaneous-route/side-effects/drg-20406730?p=1

https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/medications-containing-semaglutide-marketed-type-2-diabetes-or-weight-loss

https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-174491/ozempic-subcutaneous/details