Beyond the Scale: The Gastrointestinal Side Effects of Ozempic
Posted By Author on October 30, 2024
From the Jenny Craig program to Zumba classes to the Keto diet, we are no strangers to the various weight loss fads that have trended over the years. However, the latest weight loss craze may end up causing undue harm to your GI tract.
Ozempic has risen in popularity over the past few years, changing course from a way to help type 2 diabetics manage blood sugar levels to an effective means of shedding weight — and fast! While the conversation continues to spark around the latest weight loss fad, there may be more to stomach when it comes to Ozempic’s side effects.
Join us as we dive into the potential side effects of Ozempic that can negatively impact your gastrointestinal tract and how our GI doctors in Charleston, SC, can help!
An Ode to Ozempic: The Rise of the Weight-Loss Drug
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a prescription drug that was originally developed to help manage type 2 diabetes in adults. The medication’s main function was to help lower the risk of heart attack and stroke in those with heart disease and diabetes, as well as manage blood sugar levels.
Ozempic helps lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes by:
• Increasing the amount of insulin your body produces after eating
• Slowing the movement of food through your stomach
• Reducing the amount of sugar released into your bloodstream
Ozempic has proven successful in managing diabetes and has also emerged as a leading option for weight loss and weight management.
Ozempic and Weight Loss
Ozempic contains semaglutide, which is part of a category of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, abbreviated as GLP-1 RAs. This active ingredient mimics the natural GLP-1 hormone that is released in the gut in response to eating.
While GLP-1 signals the body to produce more insulin, higher amounts of GLP-1 can lead to decreased appetite and make you feel full — even if you’re not.
While weight loss is classified as a side effect of Ozempic use, some celebrities have been outspoken about their use of Ozempic as a weight loss drug. Comedian and actor Tracy Morgan has admitted to using the drug for weight loss, along with the likes of television personality Sharon Osbourne and TikTok influencer Remi Bader.
The use of Ozempic as a weight loss drug has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, Wegovy is specifically designed for weight loss and management and is FDA-approved for this purpose.
Ozempic: Common Cause of Constipation
Does Ozempic cause constipation? The answer is yes. Clinical studies have found that constipation was a common side effect of taking Ozempic. While initial studies reported that about three to five percent of people experienced constipation while on Ozempic, more recent studies resulted in four to twelve percent.
Ozempic constipation, while common, often develops less frequently than other Ozempic-related side effects. These other side effects can include:
One study found that constipation from Ozempic can last about six weeks, with constipation resolving once the body adjusted to Ozempic; however, so far, research is slim as to the specifics of constipation in relation to the injectable medication.
If you are experiencing constipation in relation to Ozempic use, or other GI-related issues, consult a gastroenterologist near you to rule out any underlying GI conditions.
The Long-Term Risk of Ozempic on Your GI Tract and What We Still Don’t Know
As the saying goes, what goes up must come down, and it seems that Ozempic may have reached its peak. While GLP-1 medication has reached star status, reports have come out about patients experiencing several gastrointestinal side effects, including Ozempic stomach paralysis (gastroparesis), pancreatitis, bowel obstruction, and biliary disease.
According to Health.com, a study published in JAMA found that the risk of pancreatitis, gastroparesis, and bowel obstruction increased as a result of the use of GLP-1 agonists for weight loss.
Who is at Risk?
While some people taking a GLP-1 medication for weight loss may experience zero side effects, those losing a significant amount of weight may have a higher risk of side effects. People with other health concerns, or those who already pose a risk of developing GI conditions,may find themselves experiencing adverse reactions from these types of drugs.
Before embarking on your weight loss journey with Ozempic or other GLP-1 medication, discuss your risks with a healthcare professional. Given the apparent risk of gastrointestinal conditions in relation to Ozempic, our gastroenterologists near you can help weigh your current risks based on your individual background and concerns.
Consider the Benefits and Risks of Ozempic with Help from Charleston GI
Our team at Charleston GI is focused on providing a higher standard of care that starts with the individual.
Our team prioritizes informed decision-making over trends, helping you determine whether Ozempic or other GLP-1 medications are the right choice for you and your GI health.
We have four convenient Charleston, SC, area locations to choose from: West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, and Carnes Crossroads.
