In the weight management and obesity medicine space, we have several medications at our disposal that we use in conjunction with improved diet and lifestyle choices. Medications like phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia), GLP-1 agonists (Saxenda, Rybelsus, Wegovy, Zepbound and Ozempic) and bupropion-naltrexone (Contrave) have helped dozens of my patients achieve a healthier weight and reverse some of their chronic medical conditions when used as part of a comprehensive lifestyle change. Today we're going to talk about Ozempic. 

Ozempic has been in the news lately. It was initially developed to treat the symptoms of type 2 diabetes. However, it was found to effectively help patients lose weight as well. So, how does it work? And more importantly, what does it mean for anyone who wants to lose weight? We’ll look into the science behind it and highlight the holistic approach that may help you on your weight management journey. 

The Science Behind Ozempic

Ozempic is semaglutide, a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. These drugs mimic a hormone your body makes on its own that helps you to feel fuller faster and stay fuller or for longer. This leads to eating less and spending less time hungry.

Ozempic does lead to significant weight loss in many ways. Studies show that patients can do a lot better with Ozempic than with diet and exercise alone. Remember, Ozempic is just a tool, not a magic shot. It allows people to manage their weight, but it is not a substitute for healthy lifestyle choices. 

Medicine Is a Tool 

Perhaps because of the apparent miraculous effects of weight loss medications like Ozempic in encouraging the expulsion of unneeded fat, many patients, caregivers, and allies view dropping excess pounds as a matter of pressing a button, when – at the very least – merely pressing a button (or injecting medicine) will naturally lead to lingering disappointment. Of course, as we have seen, these medications can aid in weight loss, but medication alone is likely to leave you deeply frustrated, at best. 

Weight loss is complicated. This is because it entails lifesaving changes – not only in our habits but in our identities. A medication such as Ozempic might trim one’s appetite to make it more tolerable to adhere to a calorie deficit, but only if one is similarly committed to eating healthier foods and exercising.

Lifestyle Changes Are Key

There is no denying that Ozempic is a useful adjunct to the weight loss regimen. It has helped so many of my patients in so many ways. But, it should always be used alongside lifestyle changes. Nutrition is so important when it comes to weight loss. One of the key elements of a weight loss diet is the focus on whole foods such as fruit, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. By incorporating these diet changes and maintaining a regular exercise routine, you are taking the steps to a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. 

The Importance of Support

This aside, it is equally important to have a personal commitment and a support system for it to work. Ensure you maintain regular communication with your health care provider and even a weight loss support group. Social connections are one of the 6 pillars of lifestyle medicine.

A Valuable Tool

Overall, Ozempic is an excellent ‘tool’ for weight loss – but only if it is accepted on realistic terms with the right attitude, and understood in its proper context. Used as part of an overall approach to health, this medication gets results and carries less chance of failing and/or rebounding to the old weight. There’s no getting around it: health and well-being require hard work, discipline, persistence, and a positive attitude – there are no shortcuts to healthy success!