Ozempic, is a semiglutide injection made for lowering the risk of heart attack or stroke in adults with type 2 diabetes. However, it is on the rise in America as a “miracle weight loss drug.” But is it safe, and what are the side effects?

According to Ozempic’s official website, common side effects include nausea, stomach pains, vomiting, or constipation. The company however does have to warn against serious side effects such as inflammation of the pancreas, kidney and gallbladder problems, or thyroid tumors. 

There have also been reports that as Ozempic use rises so do reports of mental health issues. In an article by NPR (National Public Radio), they state, “NPR analyzed the FDA’s adverse event reporting system, or FAERS, and learned that the agency has received 489 reports of patients experiencing anxiety, depression or suicidal thoughts while taking semiglutide drugs, including Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus.” 

Apart from the side effects caused by Ozempic, using the drug for weight loss can take it away from those who actually need it. Anthony Anderson, an American celebrity with type 2 diabetes had said about Ozempic, “I will say this, it’s creating a shortage for those of us who need the medicine that we need and not for weight loss issues, but for our health.”

How does Ozempic work, anyway? According to UC Davis Health, the drug is able to mimic a hormone that tells your brain that you’re full, reducing the amount of food you eat. It also slows down digestion.

If semiglutide is taken as a weight loss drug, it has been recommended to continue to exercise and eat right, or else the weight loss effects may have minor effects. Like any drug, after extended use your body will get used to it. Meaning Ozempic can only help it user to lose a certain amount of pounds. When someone stops taking the semiglutide, they may regain the weight they lost. 

In summation, Ozempic and other diabetic drugs have not been approved for weight loss. As the fad of using them for weight loss is very recent, not many studies have been conducted on the effects of it. At the end of the day it is up to the person taking the injections to decide if it’s right for them.