In recent years, Ozempic has attracted significant attention for its effectiveness in weight loss. Originally developed as a treatment for type 2 diabetes, its remarkable appetite-suppressing effect has led more people to consider using it for weight loss purposes.
However, many people may have questions and concerns such as ‘Does it really lead to weight loss?’, ‘Are there any side effects?’, and ‘How can I get it?’
This article provides a detailed explanation of the mechanism of weight loss with Ozempic, the expected effects, potential side effects and precautions, and the cost and availability, incorporating expert insights.
Weight Loss with Ozempic: Effects and Expert Views
In conclusion, numerous clinical studies have shown that Ozempic is effective for weight loss. Experts also consider it a strong option in obesity treatment when used under appropriate guidance.
However, it is important to note that Ozempic is not a ‘magic weight loss drug’. It is merely a medical aid to support the improvement of dietary habits and the establishment of exercise routines. Its use absolutely requires medical consultation and guidance from a doctor, and appropriate decisions must be made based on individual health status and goals.
How Ozempic Works for Weight Loss
The main ingredient in Ozempic, ‘semaglutide’, works similarly to a hormone called ‘GLP-1’, which is naturally present in the body. GLP-1 has the following effects:
- Effect on the brain: It acts on the satiety center, naturally suppressing appetite. This reduces food intake and helps control calorie consumption.
- Effect on the stomach: It slows down the emptying of stomach contents, helping to prolong the feeling of fullness.
- Effect on the pancreas: It promotes insulin secretion when blood sugar levels are high, helping to control blood sugar.
These combined effects make it easier to limit food intake without forcing yourself, ultimately leading to weight loss.
Expected Weight Loss Effects of Ozempic
While weight loss effects with Ozempic vary individually, significant results have been reported in clinical trials. Generally, many people start to feel the effects within a few months of starting treatment.
Ozempic Timeline: How Much Weight Loss in 1 Month?
Many cases report experiencing a decrease of a few percent of body weight within the first month after starting use. However, this is just a guideline. The onset of effects varies greatly depending on starting weight, dosage, diet, exercise level, and other factors. The first few weeks are also a period for the body to get used to side effects like nausea, so it’s important to continue without rushing.
Weight Loss Results on a 6-Week Plan
After 6 weeks of use, more noticeable weight loss is expected. This is a period when many users find it easier to control their appetite and make progress in improving their dietary habits. Reviewing your lifestyle habits concurrently at this stage is key to long-term success.
Regarding Before and After Photos of Ozempic Use
On social media, many ‘before and after photos’ of Ozempic users are posted, and the dramatic changes sometimes become a topic of discussion. These photos are personal testimonials, and the same results are not guaranteed for everyone, but they may serve as a source of motivation.
Note: Treat individual testimonials and photos as reference information, and always consult with your doctor to decide on your own treatment plan.
Ozempic User Reviews
Users share feedback like the following:
- Positive Reviews:
- ‘Appetite that I couldn’t suppress no matter what I tried before is naturally gone.’
- ‘I can be satisfied with smaller portions now, so healthy eating has become easier.’
- ‘Losing weight has boosted my confidence and made me more active.’
- Negative Reviews:
- ‘Nausea and constipation were tough during the first few weeks.’
- ‘I didn’t like injections.’
- ‘It’s expensive, so continuing is difficult.’
It’s clear that there are significant individual differences in how side effects are felt and the effects themselves.
Ozempic Side Effects and Risks
Ozempic is an effective medication, but side effects and risks also exist. When considering its use, it’s necessary to fully understand these points.
Common Ozempic Side Effects
Side effects relatively common among many people are mainly gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Nausea, vomiting
- Diarrhea, constipation
- Abdominal pain, bloating
- Loss of appetite
- Headache, dizziness
Many of these symptoms tend to appear early in treatment and lessen as the body gets used to the medication. If symptoms are severe, do not stop on your own judgment; consult the prescribing doctor.
Are There Risks with Ozempic?
Although rare, serious side effects that require attention have also been reported.
- Acute pancreatitis: If you experience severe abdominal pain or back pain that persists, seek immediate medical attention.
- Medullary thyroid carcinoma: Because the occurrence of thyroid C-cell tumors was reported in animal studies, it cannot be used by individuals with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or a family history of it.
- Hypoglycemia: The risk of hypoglycemia may increase when used in combination with other diabetes medications.
To avoid these risks, prior medical interviews and examinations, as well as continuous follow-up by a doctor, are extremely important.
‘Ozempic Face’ and Skin Changes
You may have heard the term ‘Ozempic Face’. This is a colloquial term referring to the condition where rapid weight loss causes a reduction in facial fat, leading to loss of skin elasticity and prominent wrinkles or sagging.
This is not a side effect specific to Ozempic, but rather a phenomenon that can occur with rapid weight loss in general. It is believed that it can be prevented to some extent by losing weight slowly, ensuring adequate nutrition and hydration, and practicing skincare.
Ozempic Cost and Availability
When using Ozempic for weight loss purposes, it’s necessary to know about its cost and how to obtain it.
Ozempic Price
In Japan, health insurance applies when Ozempic is used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, when used for weight loss (diet) purposes, it is not covered by insurance and is treated as a self-pay medical service with the full cost borne by the patient.
Costs vary greatly depending on the clinic, but generally, ¥20,000 to ¥50,000 per month is considered a guideline. In addition to this, initial consultation fees, follow-up fees, examination costs, etc., may be charged separately.
How to Obtain Ozempic
Ozempic is a prescription medication that requires a doctor’s prescription. It is not available over the counter at pharmacies or drugstores. The general process for obtaining it is as follows:
- Visit a medical institution: Visit a clinic that offers self-pay medical services (e.g., aesthetic clinics, weight loss clinics).
- Doctor’s consultation and examination: The doctor will conduct interviews, blood tests, etc., to determine if the use of Ozempic is appropriate.
- Prescription and guidance: If deemed appropriate, the medication will be prescribed, and detailed guidance on usage and precautions will be provided.
Caution!: It is sometimes sold cheaply on personal import proxy websites and the like online, but these carry a very high risk of being counterfeit or substandard drugs, which can lead to serious health damage. Always obtain a prescription from a legitimate medical institution.
Long-Term Use and Stopping Ozempic
Many people are concerned about what happens if Ozempic is stopped.
Does Weight Return to Normal After Stopping Ozempic?
Yes, it is highly likely.
The effect of Ozempic is purely appetite suppression while the medication is administered. If use is stopped, suppressed appetite tends to return. If dietary and exercise habits have not been improved during Ozempic use, it is highly likely that weight will rebound.
Ozempic should be viewed solely as a ‘support tool for establishing a healthy lifestyle’, and establishing dietary habits and exercise routines that prevent weight gain during the period of relying on the medication is most important for maintaining weight after treatment ends.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes regarding Ozempic and is not a substitute for medical advice. Decisions regarding treatment should always be made in consultation with a specialized physician and follow their guidance.
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