Oh, oh, oh, Ozempic?
With its catchy jingle and trending hashtags, lately Ozempic seems to be on a rise to stardom. But what is this drug, and why is everyone talking about it?
An Effective Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes
FDA approved in 2017, Ozempic was developed to help individuals with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes forms when the pancreas cannot create enough insulin, causing blood sugar to rise to unsafe levels. Through weekly injections, Ozempic helps the pancreas to produce insulin, reduces the amount of sugar the liver makes, and slows the movement of food out of the stomach. Ozempic also mimics a hormone released in the digestive tract that reduces appetite and creates a feeling of fullness. While the drug’s official website states that Ozempic is “not a weight-loss drug,” others have begun to use it that way.
The Rise of Ozempic
The prescription drug Wegovy, created by the company that developed Ozempic, contains the same active ingredient found in Ozempic that contributes to weight loss. Wegovy contains this ingredient in a higher dosage and was FDA approved in 2021 for chronic weight management. Due to this similarity, doctors have been prescribing Ozempic “off-label,” which is when an FDA-approved drug is prescribed to treat a condition other than its FDA-approved criteria.
A study titled “Descriptive analysis of TikTok videos posted under the hashtag #Ozempic” gathered 100 Tik Tok videos on Ozempic and found that these 100 videos alone garnered nearly 70 million views. Influencers are posting their weight loss journeys, crediting Ozempic for its quick and effective results, and the prescription drug has been called Hollywood’s “worst kept secret” as many notable celebrities are suddenly donning slimmer physiques.
What Do the Experts Say?
Doctors are in favor of Ozempic when used correctly, as it can reduce the risk for other serious conditions such as heart attacks and stroke. However, not all doctors are reserving Ozempic for those with type 2 diabetes and are continuing to prescribe it off label for those that are trying to lose weight. Its popularity has led to shortages, forcing those with diabetes to seek alternatives. Experts especially do not recommend Ozempic, or any other prescriptions that assist in weight loss, for those who do not qualify as overweight. However, WIRED tested the process of obtaining compounded versions of Ozempic (substitute medications created due to drug shortages) through prominent telehealth companies and found that it was “remarkably easy” to purchase, even if not medically necessary, as these companies did not require lab work or medical records.
Celebrities and influencers often set beauty standards in our society, no matter how unattainable or unrealistic they may be. When it comes to using any prescription medication, whether it be for cosmetic or health purposes, it is crucial to consult with your doctor and listen to the experts. If you are interested in learning more about the rise of Ozempic and its impact on society, visit this link for an informational read.
