Kaylah Walton
Ozempic, primarily prescribed for individuals with type 2 diabetes, has become a popular choice for those looking to lose weight. Though it has demonstrated effectiveness in combating obesity, it must be taken under strict medical supervision due to potential side effects. Actress Amy Schumer recently shared her troubling experience with this medication on Howard Stern‘s show.
Amy revealed that after using Ozempic three years ago, she experienced rapid weight loss of 14 kilos but faced severe health issues as a result. She stated, “I was bedridden, had no energy and was vomiting,” attributing her adverse reaction to her GDF15 gene, which makes her more susceptible to nausea.
FDA Status of Ozempic
The Food and Drug Administration has approved Ozempic for managing type 2 diabetes alongside diet and exercise; however, it is not sanctioned for weight loss. This is explicitly mentioned on the drug’s official website, highlighting that it should only be obtained with a prescription.
Potential Side Effects
Common side effects linked to Ozempic include nausea, diarrhea, stomach discomfort, vomiting, and constipation. This medication, delivered via injection, works by blocking the GLP-1 hormone, which plays a role in blood sugar regulation. As a result, appetite is diminished, leading to weight loss for the patient.
Drug Shortages
Dr. Esteban Jodar, the head of endocrinology at Quiron Hospital in Madrid and a professor at the European University, discussed the rising demand for Ozempic that has led to shortages in various pharmacies. He pointed out an ethical dilemma: “It is problematic when someone with diabetes and a history of heart attacks is unable to access Ozempic because someone else is using it for weight loss.”
