Ozempic® has gained massive popularity on TikTok, often praised as a miracle weight loss drug that helps people lose weight effortlessly.

Does it sound too good to be true? It might be.

There’s a lot of misinformation circulating about Ozempic for weight loss on social media, and there are important safety concerns to be aware of. However, it can aid in weight loss — if it’s the right option for you.

Let’s take a closer look. We’ll explain how Ozempic works, its safety profile, and the common side effects (beyond just helping you fit into your favorite jeans).

FDA-Approved Medications for Weight Loss

Managing your weight is crucial for maintaining good health as you age. Obesity increases the risk of serious health issues such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer.

In 2017, the obesity rate among U.S. adults was nearly 42%, and medical costs for adults with obesity were about $2,000 higher annually than for those without.

A body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 30 indicates being overweight, while a BMI over 30 indicates obesity.

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.

Metformin

While metformin is only FDA-approved for treating diabetes, it’s often prescribed off-label for weight loss, as well as for gestational diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Though its exact mechanism for weight loss isn’t fully understood, it’s believed to act as an appetite suppressant by increasing levels of GLP-1, signaling fullness to the brain.

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.

Phentermine-Topiramate (Qsymia®)

Phentermine (an appetite suppressant) and topiramate (an anticonvulsant) are combined in the drug Qsymia, which reduces appetite and makes you feel fuller for longer. These medications, along with exercise and a low-calorie diet, can aid in both weight loss and long-term weight management.

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.

Liraglutide (Saxenda®)

Similar to semaglutide, liraglutide is an injected GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps suppress appetite. Marketed as Saxenda for weight loss and Victoza for type 2 diabetes, this medication is FDA-approved for both conditions.

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).

Cost can be a major factor in the effectiveness of weight loss drugs. For example, injectables like Ozempic and Wegovy are generally more expensive than oral medications like metformin, which is a long-established generic.

How Fast Do Weight Loss Medications Work?

Weight loss medications work at different rates depending on the individual. Factors such as side effects, the amount of weight to be lost, and whether the medication helps maintain weight loss influence the duration of use. Typically, weight loss starts within the first few months of treatment. If a certain amount of weight isn’t lost after 12 weeks, your healthcare provider might recommend stopping the medication.

To maximize the effects, healthcare providers often recommend combining medication with increased physical activity and healthy lifestyle changes, such as eating more protein, fiber, and getting enough sleep.

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.