Recently, Ozempic, a medication prescribed to diabetics, has become controversial. While its purpose is to treat type 2 diabetes, Ozempic is more commonly used for its side effect: weight loss. As a result,  losing weight  has become easier than ever before. But, when used solely for this purpose, Ozempic poses serious issues. 

Ozempic (semaglutide) is seen as a miracle for those who desire to lose weight, as the drug can give someone quick results in a short period of time. Users typically lose up to 20% of their body weight, showing that the use of the drug is a substitute for weight-loss surgery. Ozempic is capable of causing weight loss due to its influence on gut hormones, as the drug is meant to moderate appetite and blood sugar for diabetics. 

Influencers have played a large role in spreading information about Ozempic. Many claim that its weight loss capabilities are similar to that of a “miracle drug” or weight-loss surgery itself. However, every drug has some negative consequences, no matter how positive some side effects may be. 

For example, because Ozempic is meant for diabetics, people who are using it solely for weight loss are taking the drug away from those who actually require it. There is currently a nationwide shortage of Ozempic, making it difficult for diabetics to receive proper treatment. If this continues, diabetics across the country will struggle to moderate their condition, as Ozempic plays an integral part in managing this disease. 

Ozempic isn’t just a magic weight loss drug. It has side effects, just like any other drug. Users of Ozempic might be losing weight, but there are other potential side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The drug, while it hasn’t been labeled as a weight loss drug, is being treated as such, despite the fact that it’s not meant to be used by everyone. Ozempic hasn’t been tested as a weight loss drug, it was only approved in 2017 for the treatment of diabetes. 

For now, the future of Ozempic remains uncertain. Pharmacies have increased production of Ozempic to meet the rising demand. Research on the drug’s side effects, besides weight loss, are also being researched. It could be possible that we find an answer to the “Ozempic face” (the deflation of “key areas of the face, leading to a more aged appearance” (NYT), as seen on various celebrities who use it. But, Ozempic could also be restricted to those who need it, not for those who desire to lose weight. There are many safer alternatives that people should pursue to lose weight, such as diet and exercise, before resorting to a drug. Ozempic should only be taken with a doctor’s recommendation and proper caution.