Is Ozempic Safe for Weight Loss?

Key takeaways about whether Ozempic is safe for weight loss

• Ozempic is the brand name of a semaglutide-based diabetes drug manufactured by Novo Nordisk. Some doctors are prescribing Ozempic off-label for weight loss, but it doesn’t have U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for that use.
• People have reported serious unexpected side effects from taking Ozempic. Some of these side effects can pose significant health risks.
• People who believe they’ve suffered harm by taking Ozempic have filed lawsuits against Novo Nordisk, and more people are joining the mass legal action against the company.

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is the brand name of a medicine that boosts insulin and lowers blood sugar levels. It uses semaglutide as an active ingredient to help the pancreas make more insulin. Patients take it as a weekly injection.

In 2017, Novo Nordisk sought and received FDA approval to sell once-weekly semaglutide as a diabetes medication. Novo Nordisk lauded the drug’s safety and efficacy in clinical trials.

In 2018, Novo Nordisk expanded the use of semaglutide beyond diabetes. A clinical trial targeted overweight and obese patients globally, aiming to tackle obesity-related health problem. Results showed weekly semaglutide plus lifestyle intervention led to sustained weight loss for those involved in the trial.

How does Ozempic work for weight loss?

GLP-1 receptor agonists are medications that act like the GLP-1 hormone in the human body. These medications imitate the way natural hormones act, including how they connect to cell receptors. One well-known GLP-1 receptor agonist is Ozempic.

The GLP-1 hormone plays a key role in controlling blood sugar levels and appetite. Ozempic imitates this hormone’s effect on blood sugar and appetite. When taken in higher amounts, it more effectively decreases appetite to aid in weight loss.

Studies have demonstrated the impact of GLP-1 drugs on reducing appetite. Research on animals showed that rats consumed significantly less food after treatment. Human research has also shown that GLP-1 helps decrease appetite when compared to the effect of inactive substances (placebos). 

Novo Nordisk has manufactured multiple GLP-1 receptor agonist products, which include not just semaglutide but liraglutide, to treat obesity and diabetes while broadening the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists in treating these conditions

Has Ozempic been approved by the FDA for weight loss?

The FDA hasn't approved Ozempic for weight loss. This distinction is important for healthcare providers and patients.

Initially, the FDA's approval of Ozempic marked a milestone in diabetes treatment. Anecdotal evidence and studies revealed its potential for weight loss, leading to interest in off-label use for weight management.

How safe is Ozempic for weight loss? 

Currently, the FDA hasn't approved Ozempic for weight loss. GLP-1 RA off-label use for weight loss, including the diabetes drug Mounjaro®, is based on it's ability to regulate appetite. Off-label drug use is common in medicine. However, it does mean that less research has been conducted around the safety of these uses. Anyone considering taking Ozempic for weight loss should have a serious conversation about side effects with their doctor.

Is there a semaglutide drug that is FDA-approved for weight loss?

There is a FDA-approved semaglutide weight loss medication called Wegovy®. It is made by Novo Nordisk, the same company that manufactures Ozempic and uses the same GLP-1 as Ozempic. 

Wegovy received FDA approval on June 4, 2021. It's the first weight management drug since 2014. Initially, it was for adults with a BMI over 30 or those with a BMI over 27 and weight-related health issues. On December 23, 2022, Wegovy was approved for adolescents.

Is it safe to take Ozempic for weight loss?

Ozempic is a prescription medication approved for treating type 2 diabetes. However, some people use it off-label for weight loss. While Ozempic can help with weight loss, it has potential risks and side effects you should be aware of.

Because Ozempic is not officially approved by the FDA for weight loss, its safety and effectiveness for this use haven't been thoroughly studied and proven. When a medication is used off-label, chances are higher of experiencing unexpected side effects or complications.

Common side effects of Ozempic, even when used as intended, include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Stomach pain 

These side effects can be more severe or longer lasting when taking Ozempic in higher doses for weight loss.

Other health risks associated with using Ozempic for weight loss include:

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) (not on warning label): 2021 research found that Ozempic use dramatically increased the risk of blood clots, including DVTs.
• Gallbladder disease (added to warning label in March 2022): This is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires surgery to treat various symptoms that may include pain, inflammation, infection and blockages.
• Gastroparesis (not on warning label): Ozempic may be connected to gastroparesis. This condition slows down the stomach’s normal muscle movement, preventing it from emptying properly.
• Gastroenteritis (not on warning label): Some patients using Ozempic have experienced gastroenteritis. This condition causes stomach and intestine inflammation which leads to vomiting and diarrhea.
• Ileus (intestinal blockage or obstruction) (added to warning label in September 2023): A serious and potentially fatal intestinal blockage or obstruction known as ileus prevents the bowels from working properly. Illeus isn’t the result of a structural issue.
• Intestinal blockage (added to warning label in September 2023): This is a mechanical blockage that fully or partially obstructs the intestinal tract.
• Intraoperative pulmonary aspiration (not on warning label): This is the entry of liquid or solid material into the lungs during surgery as a result of delayed stomach emptying.
• Pancreatic cancer (not on warning label): This rare form of cancer that is difficult to detect in the early stages may be linked to Ozempic use.
• Vision loss/changes: Recent studies have linked semaglutide to non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), a rare eye condition. Semaglutide releases GLP-1, a hormone that reduces blood sugar. Rapid blood sugar level changes can cause blindness or blurry vision.

The importance of medical supervision when using Ozempic for weight loss

Using Ozempic for weight loss without a doctor's supervision can be very dangerous. Your doctor needs to carefully evaluate your medical history, current health conditions and other medications you're taking to determine if Ozempic is safe and appropriate for you.

If you take Ozempic for weight loss under a doctor's care, they should closely monitor you for any potential side effects or complications. Follow the prescribed dosage and don't take more than recommended, as this can increase the risk of adverse effects.

Overall, while Ozempic can be used for weight loss, compare the overall potential benefits with the risks. Use it only under proper medical supervision and guidance.

How a lawyer can help with your Ozempic claim

The rise in Ozempic use for weight loss causes concerns. Injuries and negative outcomes due to misuse are possible. Although approved for type 2 diabetes, Ozempic is often used off-label for weight loss. Motley Rice is a law firm that handles pharmaceutical injury cases. Victims can work with us to seek compensation for their losses.

Victims of Ozempic-related injuries may be entitled to compensation for their damages, including:

• Medical expenses: Those who've suffered adverse effects or complications because of the use of Ozempic may rack up huge medical costs for treatment, hospitalization and ongoing care. These expenses can be recovered through a personal injury claim.
• Lost wages: Injuries or illnesses resulting from Ozempic use may prevent you from working and earning a living. C You can seek compensation can be sought for lost wages, both present and future, depending on the severity of the injury and its impact on your ability to work.
• Pain and suffering: The physical and emotional toll of Ozempic-related injuries can be life-changing. Victims may be entitled to compensation for their pain, suffering and diminished quality of life.
• Punitive damages: In cases where the actions of the parties involved in the distribution or administration of Ozempic were particularly egregious or reckless, punitive damages may be awarded. These cases punish the responsible parties and deter similar conduct in the future.

If you believe you were harmed by Ozempic use, consult with one of our medical drug attorneys. You may be eligible to file an Ozempic lawsuit.

Other important information about Ozempic safety

Additional Ozempic safety considerations include:

• Contraindications and pre-existing Conditions: Ozempic may not be suitable for individuals with certain pre-existing conditions, such as thyroid disorders, pancreatitis, or kidney disease. A comprehensive medical evaluation is necessary to determine if Ozempic is an appropriate treatment option.
• Impact on mental health: While the physical side effects of Ozempic are well-documented, its potential impact on mental health is an area that requires further investigation. Some users have reported mood changes, anxiety, or depression, which could be made worse by the stress of rapid weight loss or the hormonal changes associated with the medication.
• Importance of lifestyle modifications: Ozempic aids weight loss but isn't a standalone solution. Sustainable management involves lifestyle changes.
• Monitoring and follow-up: Monitoring by healthcare professionals is often necessary for diabetes treatment. Check blood sugar, kidney function and side effects regularly.
• Potential for misuse and addiction: Ozempic isn't a controlled substance, but misuse concerns exist. It's used off-label for weight loss, risking overdose and dependence.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Risks: The safety of Ozempic during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully established. Potential risks to the developing fetus or nursing infant should be carefully considered and discussed with a healthcare provider.
• Risk of Drug Interactions: Ozempic may interact with other medications, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing the effectiveness of either drug. Consulting a healthcare professional is essential to identify and manage potential drug interactions.

Our medical drug litigation experience

Our Ozempic attorneys have represented thousands of patients seriously hurt by dangerous prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

We understand that as a patient or family member, your knowledge of your medications or a loved one’s medications may be limited. If you believe Ozempic made you sick or hurt you, our attorneys have the resources needed to thoroughly investigate and:

• Investigate whether Ozempic or another diabetes drug hurt you
• Review the medicine manufacturer’s compliance with FDA regulations
• Review wheather the manufacturer adequately warned you about Ozempic’s side effects
• Recognize other issues that could affect your potential Ozempic claim

Learn more about our medical drug experience here.

Do not stop taking a prescribed medication without first consulting with your doctor. Discontinuing a prescribed medication without your doctor's advice can result in injury or death. Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro remain approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Sources

1. Administration. Rybelsus. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION: RYBELSUS (semaglutide) tablets, for oral use.
2. Cleveland Clinic. GLP-1 Agonists: What They Are, How They Work & Side Effects
3. Healthline. Ozempic Rebound: Most People Regain Weight After Stopping Semaglutide
4. New York Times. “We Know Where New Weight Loss Drugs Came From, but Not Why They Work.”
5. Novo Nordisk. FDA approves once-weekly Wegovy® injection for the treatment of obesity in teens aged 12 years and older
6. Rai P, Madi MY, Dickstein A. Liraglutide-induced Acute Gastroparesis. Cureus. 2018 Dec 28;10(12):e3791.
7. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. FDA Approves New Drug Treatment for Chronic Weight Management, First Since 2014
8. Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Calanna S, Davies M, Van Gaal LF, Lingvay I, McGowan BM, Rosenstock J, Tran MTD, Wadden TA, Wharton S, Yokote K, et al., for the STEP 1 Study Group. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2021 Mar 18;384(11):989-1002.

About the Authors

Sara O. Couch

Member

Sara Couch is a trial lawyer who contributes to litigation across several of the firm’s practice areas, including defective medical devices, harmful drugs, toxic exposure, consumer protection, and technology & privacy actions.

Jonathan D. Orent

Member

Jonathan Orent is a seasoned trial lawyer who advocates for people hurt by medical devices, pharmaceutical drugs, social media addiction and other consumer products.