Ozempic, a popular drug for treating diabetes 2 has gained considerable attention, particularly among individuals aiming to shed some pounds. However, it is crucial to delve deeper into this drug’s purpose and its potential impact on our bodies.

About Ozempic

Ozempic is an FDA-approved medication used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults. The drug received FDA approval in 2017. Ozempic’s active ingredient is called semaglutide.

As reported on the Ozempic official site, semaglutide is instrumental in lowering the A1C level, which is a long-term gauge of blood sugar concentration. Besides managing blood sugar, Ozempic also helps mitigate the risk of severe cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks or strokes. However, it is important to remember that these benefits can be maximized only if the individual maintains a healthy lifestyle.

Ozempic is a once-a-week medication that users can self-administer via injection. It is available in doses of 0.5 milligrams, 1 milligram, and 2 milligrams.

Understanding Ozempic’s Effect On The Body

The central component of Ozempic is semaglutide, a compound that mirrors the actions of a hormone naturally found in our bodies, known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Semaglutide operates by latching onto and stimulating GLP-1 receptors throughout the body, which in turn amplifies the performance of the naturally present GLP-1 hormone.

Dr. Christopher McGowan, a specialist in obesity medicine and endobariatrics, helps us understand the crucial role of GLP-1 in our body. He explains that GLP-1 performs several vital functions, one of which is promoting the release of insulin when we eat, which aids in maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Moreover, GLP-1 also suppresses the production of glucagon, another hormone that typically raises blood glucose levels, thus further contributing to blood sugar control.

Ozempic’s Unexpected Role In Weight Loss

Although Ozempic was not originally marketed as a weight loss drug, it has recently found its way into the weight loss scene. This shift came after a study conducted by Novo Nordisk, the creator of Ozempic, demonstrated that semaglutide, its active ingredient, could aid in shedding unwanted pounds.

Consequently, in 2021, the FDA granted approval for the use of semaglutide in weight management, under the brand name Wegovy. But note, Wegovy has a higher dosage – 2.4 milligrams. This shift in use has propelled the drug into popularity among those striving to lose weight.

Semaglutide acts in a way that resembles the function of GLP-1, a hormone in our body. It significantly influences the area of our brain that manages feelings of hunger. This action aids in moderating and lowering hunger pangs, appetite, and cravings. Additionally, semaglutide also decelerates the rate at which the stomach empties, making one feel satiated for extended periods.

Backing this up with scientific evidence, the clinical trial sponsored by Novo Nordisk monitored 1,961 adults who were either overweight or obese, but not diabetic. Spanning 68 weeks, these individuals received a weekly dose of either 2.4 milligrams of semaglutide or a placebo, alongside lifestyle interventions. The outcome was noteworthy: those administered semaglutide saw an impressive weight loss of up to 14.9% of their body weight, while the placebo group achieved a modest weight reduction of 2.4%.

Health Issues Linked to Ozempic and Semaglutide 

While Ozempic brings numerous benefits, it is crucial to be aware that it also carries potential health issues. Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain

Less frequent but more severe side effects can include:

• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Blurred vision
• Kidney failure
• Gallstones (cholelithiasis)
• Cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder)
• Increased risk of thyroid tumors or thyroid cancer

Studies and clinical trials have found a potential downside of Ozempic. There is growing evidence suggesting that semaglutide could be linked to an increased risk of gallbladder diseases, such as gallstones and cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder).

Medical professionals have highlighted specific risks associated with Ozempic, especially for certain individuals. For example, those with a history of pancreatitis or diabetic retinopathy may face heightened risks when using Ozempic.

Key Milestones in the Development and Approval of Ozempic

• In 2012, Novo Nordisk pioneered the development of Ozempic, a diabetes therapy designed as a longer-acting alternative to liraglutide.
• Clinical trials for Ozempic commence in 2016.
• The FDA New Drug Application for Ozempic is filed in the same year.
• By May 2017, clinical trials for Ozempic are completed.
• In December 2017, Ozempic receives approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an injectable form of semaglutide, offering improved glycemic control for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
• Researchers from the University of Leeds and Novo Nordisk published findings in 2017, indicating that semaglutide can be used for treating obesity.
• Ozempic gained approval in Europe, Japan, and Canada in 2018.
• By 2021, over 10,000 semaglutide-related adverse events are reported to the FDA Adverse Reporting System (FAERS).

These significant events mark the progressive development, clinical trials, regulatory approvals, and safety monitoring of Ozempic and Rybelsus, showcasing their evolution as innovative treatments for diabetes and related conditions.