The Latest Hollywood Drug: How Does Ozempic Work?

In the past few years, a new Hollywood drug has been making waves. Ozempic is a new injectable medication intended for therapeutic use, but recently, it has been co-opted by celebrities and tech moguls. So what are they using it for? Plus, is it even legal to use Ozempic outside its medical indications?

We're covering everything you need to know about this trending treatment.

What Is Ozempic?

Ozempic is a new injectable medication that comes in a pre-filled pen. FDA-approved in 2017, it's intended for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. A brand name of the medication semaglutide, Ozempic is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which means it helps regulate blood sugar levels. Specifically, Ozempic works by helping the body release more insulin after eating, thus regulating blood sugar levels.

Ozempic is a once-weekly injection, and its application pen is single-use and disposable. While not used for type 1 diabetes, it's been shown to be effective in helping people manage their type 2 diabetes. But now, Ozempic is attracting attention for a different use altogether.

Why Has Ozempic Become Popular in Hollywood?

While Ozempic was formulated to help manage diabetes, elites in Hollywood and Silicon Valley are now using it as a weight loss drug. Ozempic may aid weight loss because it helps to control hunger and cravings. It does this by helping the body release more of the satiety hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).

When users take Ozempic for weight loss, they typically inject it once a week, the same as someone using it to control diabetes. Some users report losing up to 10 pounds in a month with this regimen.

Who Is Using Ozempic for Weight Loss?

A-listers, like Sofia Vergara, Adele, and Rebel Wilson, have all been rumored to be using Ozempic for weight loss. The injectable medication hasreportedly also found popularity among Silicon Valley execs, like Sheryl Sandberg and Mark Zuckerberg.

It's not clear how widespread the use of Ozempic for weight loss is, but it's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with using this drug — especially if you're not diabetic.

Is It Safe to Use Ozempic If You're Not Diabetic?

There is no definitive answer to this question yet, as Ozempic has not been studied outside of its therapeutic context. However, many experts believe that Ozempic is safe to use for non-diabetic patients seeking weight loss. Additionally, Ozempic is not known to cause any serious side effects when used correctly.

Is It Legal to Use Ozempic for Weight Loss?

Yes, it is legal to use Ozempic for weight loss. However, because it is not FDA-approved for this purpose, your doctor may not be willing to prescribe it to you. Additionally, off-label prescriptions can be more expensive than medications that are FDA-approved for a specific use.

Does Ozempic Show Up on Drug Tests?

Ozempic is not a controlled substance, so it will not show up on most drug tests. However, if you are taking Ozempic for weight loss, it's important to be honest with your doctor about your use of the medication. This is because Ozempic can interact with other medications, and your doctor will need to monitor your health closely to ensure that you're not experiencing any adverse effects.

What Are the Potential Side Effects of Ozempic?

Although Ozempic is generally considered safe, there are some potential side effects associated with its use. The most common side effect of Ozempic is nausea, which typically goes away after a few days of use. Other potential side effects include:

• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Upset stomach or heartburn
• Bloating or burping
• Tiredness

Additionally, Ozempic may cause low blood sugar levels in non-diabetic patients. And rarely, patients using Ozempic may experience more severe side effects such as:

• Allergic reactions (including hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing)
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Kidney problems

If you experience any of these side effects, it's important to stop taking Ozempic and consult with your doctor immediately.

Who Shouldn't Use Ozempic?

Ozempic is not recommended for use in children under 18 years old. Additionally, people with a history of pancreatitis or kidney problems should avoid using Ozempic.

If you're considering using Ozempic — whether for weight loss or diabetes management — it's important to speak with your doctor first. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits of the medication and determine whether it's right for you.

What Other Drugs Are Used for Weight Loss?

If you're seeking FDA-approved weight loss medications, there are several options available. These include:

• Orlistat (Xenical)
• Liraglutide (Saxenda)
• Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia)
• Bupropion-naltrexone (Contrave)
• Lorcaserin (Belviq)

Each of these medications comes with its own set of potential side effects, so it's important to speak with your doctor about which one may be right for you. Some people also use weight loss drugs and supplements that aren't approved by the FDA. However, these drugs may be more likely to cause serious side effects, so it's important to use them with caution.

Are Weight Loss Drugs Addictive?

Weight loss drugs are not considered addictive, but some people may develop a psychological dependence on them. If you find that you're thinking about weight loss drugs all the time or fixating on using them to lose weight, it's important to speak with your doctor. They can help you get the treatment you need to manage your weight in a healthy way.

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