Even if you have tried, it’s impossible to ignore the hype surrounding Ozempic. This new weight loss aid went viral on TikTok, is constantly on the news, and is what a growing list of public figures attribute their weight loss to. The demand is so high, there are global shortages.
We’ve all seen diets, exercise programs, supplements, and weight loss treatments come and go. So, you may be wondering if taking Ozempic is just another fad. We are happy to share that both studies and Valley Medical Weight Loss and Med Spa clients agree—the hype is real!
Keep reading for answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding this weekly injection.
What Is Ozempic?
You may have heard of a few other trending weight loss shots, but they may be one and the same.
Ozempic began as Rybelsus, an FDA-approved daily pill for Type 2 diabetes. For convenience, pharmaceutical company Novor Nordisk launched a weekly injection of Rybelsus called Ozempic.
While we typically hear more of the negative side effects of prescriptions, both Rybelsus and Ozempic had the positive side effect of incremental weight loss.
In 2021, the FDA approved the weekly injection of GLP-1, called Wegovy for weight loss. It’s generic name is Semaglutide.
So, Rybelsus, Ozempic, Wegovy, and Semaglutide are one and the same. The only difference is that some injections include L-Carnitine or are prescribed in combination with a personalized wellness program.
How Does Ozempic Work?
Ozempic mimics the naturally occurring gut hormone GLP-1. This is the hormone that regulates insulin and blood sugar levels, which is why this prescription’s evolution began as a treatment for Type 2 diabetes.
While regulating insulin and blood sugar can reduce the number on the scale, other positive side effects include:
- Suppressing your appetite
- Minimized food cravings
- Slowing food digestion
- Feeling fuller longer
- Incremental weight loss
What Is Incremental Weight Loss?
While Ozempic is not a fad, it’s not a rapid solution for losing weight. Don’t be discouraged by this fact, though. As you may have already experienced, rapid weight loss trends aren’t sustainable—and you gain the weight back as soon as you stop taking it.
One clinical trial found incremental results as follows:
- 5.9% of total body weight was lost at 3 months, which is 10 pounds for a 200-pound person.
- 10.9% of total body weight was lost at 6 months, which is 22 pounds for a 200-pound person.
- 15% of total body weight was lost at 1.5 years, which is 30 pounds for a 200-pound person.
What If I Want to Lose Weight Faster?
We hear you, and there are several things you can do to lose weight faster while taking Ozempic! While you don’t have to make any other changes to your diet or daily routine, we strongly encourage you to make a few changes.
Many of our patients personalize their wellness journey by taking their weekly shot in combination with other scientifically proven strategies, including:
Nutritional changes—managing caloric intake and eating a diet low in trans fats, processed sugars, and processed foods.
Exercise—working out at least 4 days a week for 30 to 60 minutes, including a mix of both cardio and strength training.
Lifestyle changes—managing stress, prioritizing emotional and mental health, and making strong personal connections.
Complementary treatments—optimize your results with vitamin injections, aesthetic treatments, and other medical weight loss solutions.
Can I Take Ozempic to Lose 10 Pounds?
Maybe. The weekly dose is tiered, beginning at .25 milligrams per week and gradually working up to 2.0 or 2.4 milligrams per week. So, it typically takes a couple of months before you achieve the full dose.
That being said, if you have 10 pounds to lose for a wedding or special event that is at least a few months away, and your body max index (BMI) is above 20—it may be an option.
If your BMI is lower than 20 or it’s not the right fit for any reason, we have other options to explore.
Can I Take a Daily Pill Instead?
Not crazy about the thought of getting an injection every week? We hear you! Unfortunately, a daily pill is not an option for most.
While the daily pill Rybelsus is still prescribed for diabetes, it’s not approved for losing weight. So, unless you have Type 2 diabetes, it’s not an option for you.
We are adept at giving injections, utilizing techniques that minimize pain, and like most things—once you get accustomed to a weekly injection, it gets easier.
Can You Drink Alcohol While Taking Ozempic?
Depending on your individual health, you may be advised not to drink or to drink in moderation and with food.
While not scientifically proven, many who take the brand name or generic Semaglutide experience the side effect of decreased alcohol cravings.
Can You Skip A Week of Ozempic?
Ozempic is a weekly commitment to yourself. Consistency is key for lasting results, so aim to take it on the same day every week. It can be taken any time of day, with or without meals.
That being said, life happens. If you go on vacation, have the flu, or have a crazy busy week you can take your missed dose within 5 days of your weekly injection date. Just be mindful, that that will move your weekly injection date.
If more than 5 days have passed, Novor Nordisk advises that you should skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. If you miss multiple weeks, we will discuss whether to adjust your dose. If you miss multiple weeks, you will likely need to begin again at .25 milligrams.
On the flip side, if you will be out of town or want to adjust your weekly injection date, you may be able to take your injection a few days early. We will advise on the best method of adjusting your injections.
What Foods to Avoid While Taking Ozempic?
Did you know that the average woman spends 17 years of her life on a diet? This may leave you feeling exhausted thinking about keeping a food journal, meal planning, and counting calories.
While there are no outlined dietary rules for taking Ozempic, it is designed to be taken in conjunction with a healthy diet and daily exercise.
If it’s easier, replace the word “diet” with “nutrition” and base your daily nutrition around whole foods that are unprocessed or minimally processed.
What Are The Side Effects?
We’ve covered many of the positive side effects, now let’s discuss the negative side effects.
Ozempic is a non-habit forming, non-stimulate prescription that is generally well tolerated and generally safe and effective.
While 95% of patients have little to no symptoms, about 50% of patients experience mild nausea. As your body adjusts to your tiered weekly dose the symptoms are likely to subside.
Additional side effects include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Lethargy
- Dizziness
- Lightheaded needs
- Feeling excessively full
If There Is a Global Shortage, Where Can I Get Ozempic?
The demand is currently so high that many taking Ozempic for Type 2 diabetes can’t get their prescription filled. Not to worry though, as you can easily access its generic weight loss prescription Semaglutide.
As an added benefit, Semaglutide is significantly less expensive. Since it’s rarely covered by insurance if you aren’t diabetic, the cash price for the brand name prescription is up to $1,400 per month—but not the generic alternative!
At Valley Medical Weight Loss and Med Spa, our rates are:
- $50 per weekly injection
- $450 per 10 pre-paid injections
- $61.95 per week for the Semaglutide Weight Loss Program
- $395 per month for the Semaglutide Weight Loss Program
Our weekly and monthly programs are a comprehensive approach that includes personalized and scientifically proven strategies for losing weight.
Walk-In For Semaglutide Any Time!
We understand how busy your schedule is, and that you may not easily be able to come in for your injection at the same time every week. Not to worry as no appointment is required!
Walk in any time to our Phoenix, Tempe, or Glendale clinics for your weekly injection. Our hours are:
- Mon, Tue, Thu, or Fri between 9:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- Saturdays from 8:00 am to 1:30 pm.
Reach out if you have any questions!
