If you haven’t heard of “Ozempic” by now, you’ve either been on a digital detox or living under a rock. This drug has exploded in popularity as the go-to solution for weight loss, especially among celebrities, influencers, and yes, even your neighbour down the street.
But before you jump on the bandwagon, I thought it was worth sitting down with Innermost’s registered Dietician, Angelica Fardella, to make sense of it all.
So, What’s the Hype About?
Ozempic (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 medication — a type of hormone that’s usually released when you eat, helping your body manage blood sugar levels and making you feel full. Originally created for managing Type II Diabetes, Ozempic has found new fame as a weight loss drug because of its appetite-suppressing effects. It’s a once-weekly injection that has shown significant results in helping people shed pounds. Given the demand for it there’ve been worldwide shortages, leading to a surge in generic versions to meet the demand.
How Does It Work?
Ready for the science bit? GLP-1 hormones stimulate insulin secretion and suppress glucagon (which raises blood sugar levels), helping to control blood sugar spikes. They also play a role in making you feel full, which naturally helps with appetite control and weight management. Ozempic mimics this hormone, making your body think it’s had enough to eat, thereby reducing your caloric intake and helping with weight loss.
Sounds perfect, right? Not so fast.
The Downside
While Ozempic can be effective, it’s not a magic bullet. The drug comes with a hefty price tag, especially if you’re not using it for diabetes. It’s not covered by most insurance plans for weight loss, and you’re looking at using it for at least a year to see consistent results.
And let’s not forget the infamous “Ozempic rebound”—where users who stop taking the drug end up gaining back the weight, often because they haven’t made the necessary lifestyle changes to maintain their progress.
Plus, the side effects are no joke: nausea, diarrhoea, and general discomfort are common, and there’s a risk of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) if you go overboard.
The Verdict
Angelica, our registered Dietitian, supports the use of Ozempic where it’s medically indicated, but with a big caveat — it should never be a quick fix. Dietary and lifestyle changes are crucial for long-term success. If you’re not making those changes, you’re setting yourself up for failure.
So, before you reach for the needle, why not consider more sustainable, less costly options? Portion control, regular exercise, a balanced diet and the right supplements. It might not be as flashy, but they’ve stood the test of time for healthy and sustainable weight-loss.
And if you need a little extra help, check out Innermost’s Weight-Loss range. These products offer effective, science-backed support designed to complement a healthy lifestyle, helping you reach your goals sustainably without the side effects, hefty price tag or the needles.
