How much weight can you lose with Ozempic?

Ozempic Weight Losss Treatment, West Malling, Kent 

In recent years, Ozempic has gained attention not only for its intended use as a treatment for type 2 diabetes but also for its impressive results in aiding weight loss. With people searching for effective solutions to manage their weight, Ozempic has quickly become a topic of interest. This blog will explore what Ozempic is, how it works for weight loss, how much weight you can expect to lose, and how to maintain that weight loss long-term. We’ll also discuss the safety of the drug and the importance of obtaining it through a licensed healthcare professional.

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is a medication originally developed for people with type 2 diabetes. It contains the active ingredient semaglutide, which is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist. Essentially, this drug mimics the action of a hormone called GLP-1, which is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. It helps to increase insulin secretion when blood sugar levels are high and also slows the digestion process.

Although primarily designed to manage blood sugar, it became clear that Ozempic also had a significant impact on weight loss. Clinical trials have shown that semaglutide can help individuals lose a considerable amount of weight when combined with diet and exercise, which led to its popularity as a weight loss solution.

How does Ozempic work for weight loss?

Ozempic works by slowing gastric emptying, meaning that it keeps food in your stomach longer, helping you feel fuller for an extended period. This effect naturally leads to reduced hunger and, consequently, reduced caloric intake. Additionally, Ozempic affects certain areas of the brain that control appetite, further decreasing cravings and the desire to eat.

By managing both appetite and the rate at which food moves through your digestive system, Ozempic creates a powerful combination for weight loss, especially when paired with lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular physical activity.

How much weight can you lose?

The amount of weight loss you can achieve with Ozempic varies from person to person, but clinical studies provide a useful reference point. On average, individuals taking Ozempic may lose around 5-10% of their starting body weight over a period of 28 to 52 weeks. For someone weighing 200 pounds, this could equate to a loss of 10-20 pounds. However, some individuals may experience more significant results, with up to 15% or more weight loss in some cases.

It’s important to note that weight loss with Ozempic doesn’t happen overnight. The process is gradual, and it’s essential to give the medication time to work while making other healthy lifestyle adjustments. It is also crucial to remain patient, as some people may see quicker results than others, depending on their unique metabolic response to the medication.

Maintaining weight loss after Ozempic

One of the common concerns for those using Ozempic is what happens after they stop taking the medication. Can they maintain the weight loss? This is a valid concern, as discontinuing the drug can lead to the return of appetite and, in some cases, weight regain.

To maintain weight loss after stopping Ozempic, it is essential to continue practicing healthy habits that you’ve adopted while on the medication. Focus on the following areas:

Diet

Maintain a balanced, calorie-controlled diet. Incorporate plenty of whole foods, such as vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains, while minimising processed foods and sugary snacks.

Exercise

Continue to engage in regular physical activity. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week, along with strength training exercises.

Behavioural Support

Seek out behavioural therapy or counselling if needed, to address emotional eating or other habits that may have contributed to weight gain in the past.

Some individuals may need to stay on Ozempic long-term to maintain their weight loss. However, by building a strong foundation of healthy lifestyle habits, it is possible to sustain your weight loss even after you stop taking the medication.

Is Ozempic safe?

Ozempic is generally considered safe when prescribed by a healthcare provider and used according to the prescribed dosage. However, like all medications, it does come with potential side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation. In most cases, these side effects are mild and tend to decrease over time as your body adjusts to the medication.

It’s important to discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider to ensure that Ozempic is safe for you.

The importance of a reputable practitioner

It’s vital to obtain Ozempic through a licensed healthcare professional following an in-person appointment. With the growing popularity of the drug for weight loss, some may be tempted to acquire it through unregulated or online sources, which can be dangerous.

By seeing a reputable healthcare provider, you can be confident that the medication is safe, genuine, and appropriate for your health needs. Additionally, your doctor will monitor your progress, adjust dosages as needed, and ensure that you’re experiencing the expected benefits without severe side effects. Skipping this step and obtaining the drug from unverified sources could put your health at risk.

If you’d like to learn more about Ozempic or to establish whether it’s right for you, click here to enquire or to book a consultation.