Healthy agreement: new study reveals 5 health topics that unite republicans, democrats, and independents

Here's what we'll cover

• Ozempic for weight loss: how it works, side effects & more
• How effective are weight loss medications?
• Side effects of weight loss medications
• Conclusion

Ozempic for weight loss: how it works, side effects & more

Ozempic® has gained massive popularity on TikTok, often praised as a miracle weight loss drug that helps people lose weight effortlessly. You may be familiar with weight loss medications like Ozempic® and Wegovy®, but there are several other prescription drugs approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or prescribed off-label for weight loss. These medications are typically prescribed to individuals with obesity or those who are overweight and have related health problems like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.

Semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Rybelsus®)

Semaglutide is available under brand names like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus®. While Ozempic is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, it’s also prescribed off-label for weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. Wegovy, on the other hand, is FDA-approved specifically for weight loss in people who are obese or overweight. These medications belong to a class called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic a hormone that regulates appetite.

Naltrexone-Bupropion (Contrave®)

A combination of naltrexone (used for treating alcohol and drug dependence) and bupropion (commonly prescribed for depression or smoking cessation) is used for weight loss. Together, they target hunger and reward systems in the brain, reducing appetite and cravings. When paired with a low-calorie diet and exercise, this combination can help maintain weight loss.

Orlistat (Xenical®, Alli®)

Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor that reduces the amount of fat your body absorbs from food. It’s used in combination with diet and exercise to promote weight loss and prevent weight regain. While Xenical requires a prescription, Alli is available over the counter in a lower dose.

How effective are weight loss medications?

Prescription weight loss medications can be effective, but their results vary. For instance, a study showed that people who took Wegovy® (semaglutide) lost nearly 15% of their body weight, while those taking a placebo saw significantly less weight loss. Metformin also shows promise. A 2020 analysis of 21 clinical trials found that it led to modest reductions in BMI, particularly in those with obesity. In smaller studies, metformin has been associated with average weight loss ranging from 5.6 to 7 kg (about 13 to 15 pounds).

Side effects of weight loss medications

Like all medications, weight loss drugs may have side effects. Injectables like Ozempic and Wegovy can cause swelling or discomfort at the injection site. Common side effects of weight loss medications include:

• Stomach pain or constipation
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Some medications, like liraglutide and naltrexone-bupropion, may increase heart rate or cause headaches. There is also a small risk of pancreatitis or thyroid cancer with liraglutide and semaglutide, though serious side effects are rare.

Conclusion

Several FDA-approved medications, such as semaglutide, orlistat, phentermine-topiramate, naltrexone-bupropion, and liraglutide, are available for weight loss. Metformin is another commonly prescribed off-label option. These medications work in different ways, primarily by reducing appetite and helping individuals stick to a lower-calorie diet.

However, the choice of weight loss medication depends on individual needs, as each drug has different side effects and costs. Injectable options like Ozempic and Wegovy tend to be more expensive, whereas generics like metformin are more affordable.

It’s essential to talk to a healthcare provider about the best options for your specific situation. If you’re interested in exploring other weight loss treatments online, assistance is available.