Ozempic: Its Uses and the Reason Behind Its Increasing Popularity

Novo Nordisk, manufacturer of Ozempic, has gained significant attention and has evolved into one of the major medical products that has drawn public notice in recent years. Ozempic, a medication intended for type 2 diabetes management, came into the market in 2017 after the FDA approved its active component, semaglutide, which belongs to the GLP-1 receptor agonist drug class. The medication in this drug group works effectively to control blood sugar while helping patients lose weight. 

Since the previous few months, Ozempic injections for weight loss have seen popularity because of weight loss effects on many users. The medical interest in the Ozempic has spread into public awareness and now influences both the entertainment and fitness sectors, which has led to a rise in the cost of the Ozempic. Because of Ozempic weight-loss properties, the drug has become a popular choice among celebrities and influencers, which has ignited public discussions about the drug. In this blog, we will dive into all about ozempic, ozempics tablets, injections and how ozempic works.  

About Semaglutide

Semaglutide is marketed under the brand name Ozempic to treat type 2 diabetes. Semaglutide, an active ingredient in ozempic, is a glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist used to improve glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus, treat obesity, and reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in patients of a certain age.

Semaglutide is synthesized using recombinant DNA technology, which involves inserting the gene responsible for GLP-1 into a host organism to produce the hormone. The drug is available under the brand name Rybelsus tablets, Wegovy injection for weight loss and Ozempic injection for diabetes and weight loss. 

How Ozempic Works?

Mechanism of glycemic control

Semaglutide in Ozempic is 94% similar to human GLP-1. The GLP-1 hormone is a physiological hormone that promotes glycemic control via several mechanisms, including insulin secretion, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing postprandial glucagon secretion. Glucose homeostasis is dependent on hormones such as insulin and amylin, which are secreted by the beta cells of the pancreas. Analogues of this hormone, such as semaglutide, stimulate insulin synthesis by stimulating pancreatic islet cells and reducing glucagon secretion. They directly bind with selectivity to the GLP-1 receptor, causing various beneficial downstream effects that reduce blood glucose in a glucose-dependent fashion. 

Mechanism of cardiovascular benefit and weight loss 

Ozempic for weight loss is believed to reduce the progression of atherosclerosis via decreased gut permeability and decreased inflammation, which, hence, results in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Weight loss is believed to occur via the reduction of appetite and food cravings after semaglutide administration. 

Ingredients Used in Ozempic

Ozempic's formulation includes:

• Semaglutide – The active ingredient in Ozempic that mimics the GLP-1 hormone, aiding in blood sugar regulation and appetite suppression.
• Sodium Chloride – Used to adjust the solution's tonicity, ensuring it is compatible with the body's cells.
• Water for Injection – The solvent that dissolves the active and inactive ingredients, facilitating their delivery into the body.
• Disodium phosphate dihydrate - Used as a buffer to maintain the stability and pH of Ozempic injection
• Propylene glycol - Servers as an isotonic agent used as a humectant to retain moisture and reduce clogging
• Phenol - A preservative agent that also serves as a disinfectant and anti-microbial agent.

Uses and Side Effects of Ozempic

• Primary Uses:
• Type 2 Diabetes Management: Ozempic is prescribed to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes.
• Weight Loss: It has been shown to aid in weight loss, making it beneficial for individuals with obesity or those overweight with weight-related health conditions.
• Ozempic Side Effects:
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and constipation are frequently reported.
• Appetite Suppression: While beneficial for weight loss, reduced appetite can lead to decreased food intake.
• Adverse reactions of Ozempic: 
• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, presenting as severe abdominal pain.
• Thyroid Tumors: A potential risk, though studies in humans are limited.
• Kidney Issues: Potential for kidney problems, especially those with existing kidney conditions.
• Diabetic Retinopathy Complications: In the trial involving patients with type 2 diabetes and high cardiovascular risk, more events of diabetic retinopathy complications occurred in patients treated with OZEMPIC compared to placebo. 
• Hypersensitivity: Serious hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, angioedema) have been reported with GLP-1 receptor agonists. If hypersensitivity reactions occur, discontinue using OZEMPIC; treat promptly per standard of care; and monitor until signs and symptoms resolve.

Difference Between Ozempic and Wegovy

Both Ozempic and Wegovy contain semaglutide and function similarly in the body. However, the only difference between wegovy and ozempic is their dosage and intended use, where one is solely used for weight management, and the other has weight loss as a side effect. 

Wegovy- Wegovy is approved for chronic weight management in adults and adolescents ages 12 and older. It has been studied in people who do and do not have diabetes. A higher maximum weekly dose of wegovy is 2.4 mg, potentially enhancing its weight loss effects. During clinical trials, adults taking Wegovy lost an average of nearly 15% of their starting body weight. In a separate trial, on average, adolescents lost about 16% of their starting body mass index (BMI) for people with heart disease who are considered overweight or obese. 

Ozempic -  Ozempic is approved to treat Type 2 diabetes in adults. It can also lower the risk of cardiovascular events. The beginning dose of Ozempic is 0.25 mg once weekly for the first 4 weeks. During clinical trials, people taking Ozempic lowered their haemoglobin A1C by over 1%. A1C is the average blood glucose level over 3 months.

Why Is Ozempic Popular Among Celebrities?

Celebrities using Ozempic is currently a buzzing topic. Ozempic for weight loss aspirants offers a convenient method of controlling appetite and creating feelings of fullness, thus making Ozempic appealing for weight loss. Ozempic offers its consumers a weight loss solution that does not require significant changes to eating habits or exercise routines because it suits demanding lifestyles. 

The public visibility of Ozempic has increased because multiple famous figures like Elon Musk and Kim Kardashian, Amy Schumer, and various influencers are believed to have used it to drop weight. Such a sudden popularity has led to a rise in the cost of Ozempic.  The availability of these treatments and their appropriate medical use for the public creates significant ethical challenges because of potential unintended misuse.

Conclusion

Ozempic has become increasingly popular for its ability to manage type 2 diabetes while promoting weight loss. As a once-weekly Ozempic injection for weight loss, it helps regulate blood sugar and curb appetite, making it a preferred choice for many. However, with its growing demand, the cost of Ozempic has risen, sparking discussions about accessibility. Many wonder how does Ozempic work. It mimics the GLP-1 hormone to control glucose and reduce cravings. While its benefits are clear, using Ozempic for injection responsibly under medical guidance is essential for safe and effective results.