Share
The buzz around Ozempic has hit the world to the point that people have transformed it from a medication for diabetes to casually consuming it for losing weight. With social media feeds flooding with before and after pictures and Ozempic being the topic for a dinner party conversation, netizens are not able to see the bigger picture.
If you have the same question, ‘What is Ozempic’, rather than relying on social media, trust the doctors’ credible information. To bust some myths and explore the real implications of Ozempic on a healthy diet and nutrition, Slurrp interviewed Dr Rajmadhangi, a General Physician at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Chennai and Dr Sheethal S, MBBS, MD Internal Medicine & Consultant physician at DHEE Hospitals. Read on to know everything about Ozempic.
The Hype Around Ozempic
“Ozempic is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. The work that this medicine does is mimicking a natural hormone called GLP-1(Glucagon-like-peptide). This hormone signals the body to release insulin, slows digestion, and gastric emptying, and makes people feel full for longer. So, as the appetite is reduced, weight loss is bound to happen. This is the actual reason why people who take Ozempic often eat less and lose weight,” informs Dr Rajmadhangi, General Physician at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Chennai.
Why Is Ozempic Gaining Popularity In India?
As per Dr Sheethal S, MBBS, MD Internal Medicine & Consultant physician at DHEE Hospitals, “While Ozempic was initially developed for diabetes management, its efficacy in promoting weight loss has garnered significant attention, including in India. Some of the major reasons behind the hype include its efficacy in weight reduction, the rapid rates of obesity amongst younger generations, and the influence of public figures in the country.”
Diving deeper into the subject, Dr Rajmadhangi breaks down the mechanism, “With all the social media influencers talking about using Ozempic for weight loss, it has become a trend. However, it’s this mimicking of the hormone that is the actual cause of the weight loss. As the feeling of fullness increases, the intake is indirectly reduced. Plus, there aren't many FDA-approved medicines for weight loss across India, making this medicine even more popular as India’s drug regulatory body follows a very stringent approval process. Even several drugs approved in the US by the FDA take longer to get clearance due to potential misuse and safety issues. With limited medical options, people looking for effective weight loss solutions turn to Ozempic, hyped by social media trends, celebrity endorsements, and global attention.”
The Impact Of Ozempic On Nutrition And Healthy Eating
Highlighting the conviction of the slimming effects of the drug, Dr Rajmadhangi says, “As of now, people are coming directly asking for the medicine. Many people come to us already convinced that this is the solution they need without even knowing how the medication works or if there is any potential risk. Some of them even self-prescribing and go directly to the pharmacy. Now, that can be a bit risky as it has specific effects on blood sugar regulation, metabolism, and digestion. After all, Ozempic is not just a weight loss drug; it’s a prescription medication with a specific medical purpose.
“The portrayal of Ozempic as a rapid solution for weight loss can impact individuals' approaches to nutrition and healthy eating. The patients are prioritising medication over sustainable lifestyle changes, undermining the importance of a balanced diet and regular physical activity. However, people should know that viewing Ozempic as an effortless weight loss method may lead to neglect of essential behavioural modifications necessary for long-term health,” adds Dr Sheethal.
Are Women More Drawn Towards The Drug?
“Mentions of Ozempic in popular media, such as shows like "Bollywood Wives," can amplify public interest and acceptance, potentially leading to increased usage among viewers, particularly women. Such portrayals can normalise the medication's use for weight loss, prompting individuals to seek prescriptions without fully understanding the medical implications,” Dr Sheethal concludes.
Dr Rajmadhangi further discusses, “A recent survey by the Intake resource server discovered that 39% more women than men consulted their doctors to obtain their prescription for Ozempic. It is also from my personal experience as well. Also, women are more likely than men to experience conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), which is linked to insulin resistance and weight gain. In many cases, women are drawn more towards Ozempic after undergoing pregnancy.”
The Side Effects Of Ozempic
“Ozempic is seen as a quick-fix solution and as an easy way. The people mostly believe in terms of taking the drug and getting slim without changing their diet or lifestyle. This has two sides to it; chances to gain the weight back once you stop the medication is a possibility. Second, eating healthy is always something we need to stick to. So there is no alternative to that. This medication is suitable to take with a proper doctor's prescription.
Talking about the long-tern effects, nutritional deficiency may hit hard. Without a proper diet, you may miss out on the appropriate nutrients and minerals required for the body. The chance of some people becoming psychologically dependent on the drug and fear gaining weight without it is also a possibility,” Dr Rajmadhangi paints a clear picture.
