Once you begin using Ozempic, some people can find it takes several weeks to see any weight loss, yet others may see some weight loss within a week or 2. While it can be difficult, try to remain patient — change looks different for everyone.
While Ozempic is not specifically labeled as a weight loss drug, studies sponsored by Novo Nordisk, the company that makes Ozempic, suggest people who take semaglutide—the active compound in Ozempic—may lose weight. In fact, the FDA approved semaglutide for weight loss in 2021 under the brand name Wegovy.
How much weight can you lose on Ozempic or Wegovy? In randomized clinical trials, patients receiving the 2.4 milligram dose of semaglutide lost a mean of 6% of their weight by week 12 and 12% of their weight by week 28, researchers reported.
So, on average, with the recommended starting Ozempic dose of 0.25 mg, a 500 to 1000 calorie reduced diet, and exercise 3 times a week, you can expect to lose 3-5 pounds in the first month of treatment, which works out to about 3% of body weight for most overweight or obese individuals.
Once you begin using Ozempic, some people can find it takes several weeks to see any weight loss, yet others may see some weight loss within a week or 2. While it can be difficult, try to remain patient — change looks different for everyone.
Key Points. Your blood glucose (sugar) levels should start to fully decline within the first week after you start using Ozempic (semaglutide) at your regular maintenance dose. However, the full effect can take 8 weeks or longer, as this is a long-acting medication that is injected only once per week.
Ozempic is only intended and approved for people with type 2 diabetes. You should not take it solely for weight loss. Doing so may prevent patients who require the medication for blood sugar management from getting it.
How can I maximise my body weight loss on Ozempic? You can assist Ozempic by lowering your overall calorie intake, moving your body where possible and limiting your alcohol consumption.
Ozempic works by binding to GLP-1 receptors and stimulates insulin release from the pancreas when you need it. It helps to lower your blood sugar levels and A1C. It also helps to reduce the amount of sugar released by your liver and slows down food leaving your stomach to help prevent blood sugar spikes.
“Ozempic face” is a term for common side effects of the type 2 diabetes medication semaglutide (Ozempic). It can cause sagging and aging of facial skin. A doctor may recommend lifestyle modifications or facial fillers to treat these effects.
Ozempic has other common side effects, including nausea, constipation, vomiting, heartburn, gas, headache, and dizziness. Not everyone experiences side effects, and they may be mild for others.
Does Ozempic make you feel tired? The short answer is that, yes, Ozempic can make you feel tired, but it's a rare side effect of the drug. Ozempic and its active ingredient, semaglutide, have been extensively studied for safety and efficacy for blood sugar control and weight loss.
Swelling/redness/itching at the injection site, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation may occur. Nausea usually lessens as you continue to use semaglutide. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
It doesn't make a big difference whether you take it in the morning or at night. It's possible to change the day of the week you inject Ozempic. The general rule is to avoid injecting it with less than 2 days in between shots. But it's best to talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist first.
The most common side effects with Ozempic include stomach problems like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain and constipation. These tend to be mild-to-moderate and usually clear up in a few weeks in most people.
High fat foods or sugary foods
Ozempic can cause nausea and vomiting if taken after eating foods high in fat or sugar. It is recommended that you take Ozempic before meals, rather than after, to minimise any potential side effects from eating high-fat or high-sugar foods.
Refined carbohydrates
This can make it harder to manage blood sugar levels in people both with and without diabetes. These types of foods are typically lacking fiber, which can send blood sugar levels soaring. It is best to avoid refined carbohydrates if you're taking Ozempic.
Can I drink alcohol while using Ozempic? The short answer is yes: you can drink alcohol while taking Ozempic. In the U.S., where Ozempic is created and distributed from, the Food and Drug Administration has not provided any specific disclaimers on mixing Ozempic and alcohol [1].
It may last for a few weeks while your body gets used to the medication and while your dose is increasing. Fatigue may be caused by other factors, however, so how long it lasts can vary. Lower your sleep debt and get in sync with your circadian rhythm to boost your energy levels.
It mimics a hormone that makes you feel full longer, reduces food cravings and suppresses your appetite. The medication also slows down stomach emptying, so patients are satisfied with smaller portions and feel less hungry overall.