Weight-loss medications like Ozempic have garnered significant attention in recent years, partly due to endorsements by celebrities and influencers. This surge in popularity has led to widespread usage, with over nine million prescriptions written in the United States during the last quarter of 2022 alone.
While the benefits of these medications are often highlighted, discussions about their potential side effects, ranging from mild digestive issues to severe health risks—have also increased. This article explores what Ozempic and its counterpart Wegovy (both containing semaglutide) offer for weight loss and outlines their possible side effects. Here’s what you need to know if you or a loved one is considering this treatment.
What Is Ozempic?
Ozempic (semaglutide) is a prescription medication primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes. Administered via a subcutaneous injection, it helps manage blood sugar levels and lower the risk of heart-related complications, such as heart attack or stroke, in individuals with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Doctors may prescribe Ozempic for off-label use to aid weight loss or weight management. However, it’s important to note that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved Ozempic specifically for weight loss.
Ozempic Basics
Ozempic contains semaglutide, an active ingredient classified as a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It is only available as a brand-name medication and is not yet offered in a generic form. This medication carries a boxed warning—the FDA’s most severe caution—highlighting its potential risks, such as an increased likelihood of thyroid cancer. (For more details, see the section “What Should Be Considered Before Taking Ozempic?”)
How Does Ozempic Work?
Ozempic helps control blood sugar levels and reduces heart-related risks in people with type 2 diabetes through several mechanisms:
- It mimics the action of GLP-1, a hormone that stimulates the pancreas to release insulin.
- It slows the digestive process, leading to prolonged feelings of fullness and reduced hunger cravings.
- It increases insulin production after meals to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels.
- It lowers the amount of sugar released into the bloodstream.
If you’re considering Ozempic, your doctor or pharmacist can provide more insights into its mechanisms and benefits.
Common Side Effects of Ozempic
Like most medications, Ozempic can cause side effects. The most commonly reported ones include:
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Nausea or vomiting
Mild Side Effects of Ozempic
Some individuals may experience mild side effects, such as:
- Changes in taste perception
- Burping or flatulence
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Indigestion or acid reflux
- Injection site reactions, such as skin discoloration or discomfort
- A slight increase in heart rate
These side effects are generally temporary and manageable. If they persist or become bothersome, consult your healthcare provider. Do not discontinue the medication without medical advice.
Serious Side Effects of Ozempic
Although rare, Ozempic can cause serious side effects, including:
- Diabetic retinopathy (damage to the eye’s blood vessels)
- Gallbladder disease, including gallstones or inflammation
- Kidney issues
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
- An increased risk of thyroid cancer (as noted in the boxed warning)
- Allergic reactions
- Severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
If you experience any severe symptoms, such as vision changes, intense abdominal pain, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.
Long-Term Side Effects of Ozempic
While most side effects are temporary, some can have long-term implications, including:
- Persistent diabetic retinopathy
- Chronic gallbladder issues
- Pancreatitis
- Thyroid cancer
If you’re worried about the potential for long-term side effects, discuss these concerns with your doctor before starting treatment.
How Long Do Side Effects Last?
Mild side effects often subside as your body adjusts to the medication. However, since Ozempic can take up to five weeks to fully leave your system after your last dose, side effects may persist during this period. Additionally, certain conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy, may worsen even after the drug has been discontinued. For personalized advice, consult your healthcare provider.
Does Ozempic Cause Hair Loss?
No, Ozempic is not known to cause hair loss. Clinical studies of Ozempic have not reported hair loss as a side effect. However, hair loss can sometimes be associated with other conditions, such as diabetes itself, rather than the medication. For individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, hair loss may result from:
- Damage to hair follicles caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels or poor circulation.
- Stress related to managing a chronic condition.
- Having hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone levels), which can occur alongside diabetes.
Additionally, medications commonly used to treat cardiovascular conditions in people with diabetes, such as statins or angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, may rarely contribute to hair loss.
If you are experiencing hair loss, it’s essential to consult your doctor. They can evaluate whether the cause is related to blood sugar management or other factors and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Explaining Ozempic’s Side Effects
Here’s a closer look at some of the potential side effects of Ozempic and how they might be managed:
Thyroid Cancer Risk
Ozempic carries a boxed warning about the potential risk of thyroid cancer. Studies have shown that Ozempic caused thyroid cancer in animal tests, but it is unclear whether this risk applies to humans. To minimize the risk:
- Avoid using Ozempic if you have a rare genetic condition called multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 or a family history of medullary thyroid cancer.
Contact your doctor immediately if you notice symptoms such as:
- A lump or pain in your neck.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Shortness of breath or wheezing.
- A hoarse voice that persists.
Gas and Burping
Flatulence (gas) and burping may occur during Ozempic treatment, though they are less common compared to other digestive issues like nausea, constipation, or diarrhea. Burping can also be linked to acid reflux or indigestion, which are known side effects of the medication.
To manage these symptoms, your doctor may suggest dietary changes or recommend over-the-counter remedies, such as:
- Gas-X (simethicone) for gas and burping.
- Antacids like Pepcid (famotidine) or Tums (calcium carbonate) for acid reflux or indigestion.
Seek medical advice immediately if gas or burping is accompanied by severe abdominal pain or vomiting, as this could indicate pancreatitis, a more serious side effect of Ozempic.
Dizziness
Although dizziness is not a common side effect of Ozempic, it may occur. In some cases, dizziness could signal hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which is a potentially serious side effect of the drug.
If you experience dizziness, consult your doctor right away. They may recommend monitoring your blood sugar levels more closely or adjusting your diabetes treatment plan. Carrying glucose tablets or gels can help you manage sudden episodes of low blood sugar.
Pancreatitis
Rarely, Ozempic can cause pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms of pancreatitis include:
- Severe abdominal pain that may radiate to your back.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Bloating or fever.
Inform your doctor if you have a history of pancreatitis before starting Ozempic. If symptoms of pancreatitis appear, stop taking the medication and seek medical attention immediately.
Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
Ozempic can cause hypoglycemia, especially if used alongside insulin or other diabetes medications. Episodes of hypoglycemia may also occur if you make sudden changes to your diet or activity level. Symptoms of low blood sugar include:
- Dizziness or shakiness.
- Sweating or chills.
- Confusion or clumsiness.
- Blurred vision or extreme hunger.
Your doctor may adjust your insulin dosage or other diabetes medications to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia. Always keep fast-acting glucose products, such as glucose tablets or sugary snacks, readily available to manage episodes quickly.
Allergic Reactions
Like most medications, Ozempic may cause allergic reactions, ranging from mild to severe. Symptoms can include:
- Rash or itchiness.
- Flushing or swelling, particularly around the lips, eyes, hands, or feet.
- Swelling of the mouth or throat, which can make breathing difficult (severe allergic reaction).
If you experience a mild allergic reaction, consult your doctor. For severe reactions, such as difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical help immediately.
Keeping Track of Side Effects
During your treatment, maintaining a side effect journal can help you and your doctor manage any issues effectively. Note details such as:
- The dose you were taking when the side effect occurred.
- The nature and severity of the side effect.
- How it impacted your daily life.
- Other medications you were taking at the time.
Sharing this information with your doctor can assist in tailoring your treatment plan to minimize side effects and improve your overall experience.
Warnings for Ozempic
Ozempic comes with specific warnings that may influence whether it is a suitable treatment for you. These warnings include potential risks related to thyroid cancer and interactions with certain medical conditions.
Boxed Warning: Thyroid Cancer Risk
Ozempic carries a boxed warning about the possible risk of thyroid cancer. A boxed warning is the most serious warning issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For further details on this risk, please refer to the “Side Effects Explained” section above.
Other Warnings
Ozempic can sometimes cause harmful effects, especially in individuals with certain medical conditions. These conditions may increase the risks associated with the drug. Discuss your full medical history with your doctor before starting Ozempic. Be sure to mention if any of the following apply to you:
- Kidney problems.
- A history of allergic reactions to Ozempic or other GLP-1 agonists (the drug class to which Ozempic belongs).
- Diabetic retinopathy (a complication of diabetes affecting the eyes).
- Current use of insulin or other diabetes medications.
Alcohol and Ozempic
Ozempic is not known to interact directly with alcohol. However, both alcohol and Ozempic lower blood sugar levels. Drinking alcohol while using Ozempic may increase the risk of severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Additionally, chronic alcohol consumption is a common cause of pancreatitis, and using Ozempic can raise your risk of developing this condition as well.
To reduce the risk of hypoglycemia and pancreatitis, avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking Ozempic. If you drink alcohol, consult your doctor to determine a safe amount based on your health and treatment plan.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding While Using Ozempic
The safety of using Ozempic during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not fully known. If you plan to become pregnant, you should stop taking Ozempic at least two months before trying to conceive to ensure the drug is cleared from your system. If you become pregnant while using Ozempic, contact your doctor immediately for guidance.
If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, consult with your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of continuing Ozempic treatment during this time.
What to Ask Your Doctor
If you have concerns about potential side effects or interactions while using Ozempic, your doctor or pharmacist can provide answers and help you feel more confident in your diabetes treatment plan. Consider asking the following questions:
- What is my risk of experiencing serious side effects with Ozempic?
- Are there steps I can take to prevent diabetic retinopathy while using Ozempic?
- If I have kidney disease and experience diarrhea with Ozempic, is it safe to use electrolyte replacement solutions like Pedialyte?
- How should I manage injection site reactions with Ozempic?
- I have gallstones that I manage through my diet. Should I avoid using Ozempic?
By discussing these questions with your doctor, you can better manage your treatment and make informed decisions about your health.
