Ozempic and Wegovy: Weight Loss Miracle Drugs?
Ozempic and Wegovy: Weight Loss Miracle Drugs?
Written By: Art Waters, MA, CSCS
In the health and fitness industry our ears have been buzzing with questions about “new weight loss drugs”. Many clients in our community purport that they have heard of diabetes medications being prescribed for weight loss. Because of all of the excitement, we decided to do a little digging to see what the hype was all about. The two prescriptions we discovered consistently were Ozempic and Wegovy.
What are they?
Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide, which is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. GLP-1 is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin secretion and suppressing glucagon. Ozempic is typically given as a subcutaneous injection once a week and can improve blood sugar control, reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, and aid in weight loss. Its approved uses are for glycemic control in type 2 diabetes and to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.
Wegovy is also a brand name for semaglutide, but is prescribed at a higher dose than Ozempic. It is the first and only once-weekly injection of a GLP-1 receptor agonist that is FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or who are overweight and have at least one weight-related condition (such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes).
Are they safe?
Ozempic and Wegovy are both FDA-approved medications (2017 and 2021 respectively) and have been shown to be safe and effective for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and weight management. However, as with any medication, there are potential risks and side effects associated with their use. Common side effects of Ozempic and Wegovy include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, dizziness, belching, hypoglycemia, flatulence, and headache. Less common but more serious side effects can include pancreatitis, kidney problems, and gallbladder problems.
There are several groups of individuals who should not take these medications. Some of these include those with type 1 diabetes, a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2, or by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
It is recommended for individuals to speak with their healthcare provider about the potential benefits and risks of using Ozempic or Wegovy, and to follow their instructions for use carefully. Healthcare providers can help determine if these medications are safe and appropriate for patients based on their individual medical history and current health status.
Who should take them?
Ozempic is often used in conjunction with diet and exercise to help improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It may be recommended for individuals who have not achieved adequate blood sugar control with diet and exercise alone, or who are unable to tolerate other diabetes medications. Ozempic may also be prescribed for individuals who have a history of cardiovascular disease, as it has been shown to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events.
Wegovy is indicated for chronic weight management in adults who are obese (BMI 30+) or overweight (27+) and have at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes. It is designed to be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
How do they work?
Ozempic and Wegovy are both medications that work by activating the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor, which is a protein that is found on the surface of cells in the pancreas and other organs. When GLP-1 receptors are activated, they stimulate the production and release of insulin from the pancreas in response to rising blood sugar levels. This helps to lower blood sugar levels and improve glucose control in individuals with type 2 diabetes. In addition to its effects on insulin secretion, GLP-1 also acts on other organs and systems in the body to promote weight loss. It can slow down the movement of food through the stomach, which leads to a feeling of fullness and reduced appetite.
Will I regain weight after stopping the medicine?
It is possible to regain weight after stopping Ozempic or Wegovy, but the amount of weight regained can vary depending on various factors such as diet, exercise, and overall health. A study in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism: A Journal of Pharmacology and Therapeutics concluded that, “One year after withdrawal of once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide 2.4 mg and lifestyle intervention, participants regained two-thirds of their prior weight loss, with similar changes in cardiometabolic variables. Findings confirm the chronicity of obesity and suggest ongoing treatment is required to maintain improvements in weight and health.”
What do they cost?
There are some circumstances in which the prescriptions are covered through insurance. However, out of pocket the cost can be $1,300+ for a 28 day supply of Wegovy. Currently there are no generic options available. Ozempic is around $1,000 per month.
A Dietitian’s Take on Weight Loss Medications:
“Weight loss strategies, such as intentional diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes, should be tried prior to taking weight loss medications.
While using medications may seem like a simple solution, they are not just a quick fix. There are serious side effects that come with these drugs. Patients need to make sure they understand the potential risks associated with using these medications. Routine check-ins with a medical provider are crucial to make sure medications doses are safe and effective. The short term benefits come with a large list of potential side effects.
One concerning trend is that some patients are getting medications online with a single Telehealth visit, and are not receiving proper guidance on how to use them. These medications work to suppress appetite, which makes eating less and losing weight easy. However, when individuals stop taking the medicine, appetites will rebound and likely body weight will do the same.
Although weight loss medications can be useful, the key to successful weight loss still requires changing eating habits and adjusting lifestyle behaviors. Speaking with a Registered Dietitian while taking medications is highly encouraged. A Registered Dietitian can help individuals create realistic plans that are sustainable for long-term healthy habits, including help transitioning off of medicines.”
-Sarah Tannen, RDN, CSOWM, LDN
Final Thoughts:
It appears that Ozempic and Wegovy have significant weight loss benefits. The latter being formally FDA approved for weight loss specifically. However, there are several considerations individuals should take into account such as safety, cost, long term implications, and availability of professional guidance. If evaluating these medicines as a weight loss option, consider partnering with a Registered Dietitian to improve long term weight management.
Sources:
Ozempic vs Wegovy: What's the difference between them? (drugs.com)
FAQs About Wegovy® | Wegovy® (semaglutide) Injection 2.4 mg
FDA Approves New Drug Treatment for Chronic Weight Management, First Since 2014 | FDA
Wegovy vs. Ozempic: How They’re Different and What You Should Know - GoodRx