What is Ozempic (Semaglutide) and How Does It Work?
If you are on #nutritiontok or #weightlosstok or really any social media these days, then there is almost no way you have missed the drug some are calling the “Miracle Skinny Shot,” unless you’ve been hiding under a remote pool-side cabana. We’re talking about Ozempic and Wegovy, also scientifically known as Semaglutide, the weight loss injection solution that has recently gone viral in social media and in weight loss communities everywhere.
In June of 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that the Semaglutide injection was approved “for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition (such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol), for use in addition to a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity.” Basically, in layman’s terms, “Semaglutide works on the hormones in your body that control your appetite and your ability to be satisfied when eating less food, which is how it helps people lose weight,” says Danielle Diaz, Trend’s in-house Nurse Practitioner.
Originally, Semaglutide injections were launched and marketed as “Ozempic” and “Wegovy” brand names, with Ozempic being prescribed to mainly patients with Type 2 diabetes, and Wegovy being mainly prescribed to those looking for assistance with weight loss. You can imagine how quickly both brands became popular, leading the manufacturer to announce an official shortage in late 2022. Luckily, these drugs are more accessible and available in compounded versions under the generic drug name of Semaglutide injections, which is great news for anyone wanting to take this hard-to-find drug.
Who Is Ozempic For?
Officially, the drug is indicated for “chronic weight management in patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 kg/m2 or greater who have at least one weight-related ailment or in patients with a BMI of 30 kg/m2 or greater,” according to FDA.gov. A little more plainly put, this medication is meant for those who currently have Type 2 diabetes, or those who may be on their way to being diagnosed due to being overweight.
With 70% of Americans being overweight, the shot came at just the perfect time, inspiring many to take the drug and lose stubborn weight. The CDC recently stated that 65.7% of San Antonio adults are overweight or obese, while 32.4% of children aged 10-17 are considered overweight or obese in the city. Basically, we are not doing a great job ourselves staying at a healthy weight, and it’s starting to affect our next generation as well.
Of course, taking Ozempic isn’t a cure-all solution to obesity. Doctors recommend you take Ozempic alongside a healthier intake of a balanced diet, as well as recommended levels of exercise according to your weight and BMI. Either way, you’re doing the hard work, and the shot is meant to add a bit of support along the way.
How Much Ozempic Would I Be Taking?
The common dosage of the Semaglutide injection is 2.4 mg once per week. It’s also common to begin taking the medication at a lower dosage while your doctor or nurse practitioner monitors your health. After a few weeks, your medical professional might increase your dosage if your body has responded well. As tempting as it may be, you shouldn’t take extra doses of Semaglutide injections to try to lose weight more quickly. Taking the drug (more or less) than you were prescribed can cause negative side effects and actually delay your weight loss journey. It’s also important to stick with the medication over a period of several weeks so that an accurate history and upcoming results can be recorded. Your medical professional can go over results and any concerns that you have along the way.
Results and Reviews – Is It Really That Great?
If you ask social media, specifically TikTok, you’ll find mostly rave reviews of Ozempic or semaglutide injections for weight loss. (This is likely the main reason for the shortage, actually). You’ll also find a ton of helpful remedies for any side effects that bother you, and with tummy issues being the main culprit, you’ll find tips and tricks on how to deal with bloating and other uncomfortable side effects. The general consensus is that “putting up with” the gastro issues is totally worth it when you see the results in the mirror.
According to several online case studies and feedback from the medical industry, reviews of Ozempic for weight loss have been mostly positive, due to “ease of use” and “effectiveness” of the drug. Of course, anyone who has a bad experience is allowed to be disappointed, and it’s important to weigh every option and do your own research on what works for you and your healthcare professional. Talking through the pros and the cons will be a big step, so bring a notepad to the office and document those before making this big decision.
See Real Before-and-After-Ozempic Photos
Not sure what to think about Ozempic for weight loss? Take a look for yourself at these before and after photos of actual patients who have taken Semaglutide injections as a part of their weight loss journey.
Understanding the Risks
According to trial studies, the most common side effects of Semaglutide included nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, headache, fatigue, indigestion, dizziness, abdominal distension, belching, gas, and low blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes. Some study participants also got gastroenteritis (an intestinal infection aka a “tummy bug”) and acid reflux. It may sound like a variant of the famous Pepto Bismol commercial jingle, but side effects shouldn’t be completely brushed off. Many of them are manageable using common natural remedies.
OK, But How Much Does It Cost?
Of course, nice things tend to show their worth in the price tag, don’t they? Most insurance plans will not cover this drug unless you are using it to help with your Type 2 diabetes. However, at The Trend Effect, we offer a 3-month Ozempic Injection program starting at $879. We even offer buy now, pay later options to help offset paying upfront.
We encourage you to talk to our in-house nurse practitioner, Danielle Diaz, about your weight loss goals and dreams, and find out if Semaglutide injections might be right for you.
She will take into account your medical history, your current medical statistics, and your future plans, all while providing her years of expertise and advice on what she believes will help you reach your desired outcome.
Legal Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to a medical health professional about your health needs
I was needing information regarding Ozempic. I eat healthy exercise often but weight just does not come off.
If you are in San Antonio, TX contact our office to learn more about our weight loss program that uses Ozempic (Semaglutide) injections.