How Does Ozempic Work for Weight Loss?

How does Ozempic help you lose weight?

To understand how Ozempic is being acclaimed for its weight loss properties, we must understand its mechanism of action and its active ingredient. 

Ozempic is a brand name for a type of drug named semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. In short, GLP-1 is a natural hormone that influences several factors related to weight management and semaglutide mimics it.

GLP-1 assists in appetite regulation. As semaglutide mimics the actions of GLP-1, Ozempic can lead to increased satiety, making you feel fuller, and decreasing hunger hormones which can help users eat less. 

Semaglutide can also assist with blood sugar control. This improved insulin sensitivity and glucagon suppression can promote steadier blood sugar levels, potentially reducing cravings associated with blood sugar fluctuations. 

Semaglutide may also help with gut motility, leading to the slowing down of food passing through your digestive system, which in turn makes you feel fuller and potentially reduces nutrient absorption.

Is weight loss a side effect of Ozempic?

While these mechanisms can contribute to weight loss, Ozempic is not designed for that purpose. It’s a prescription medication primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes. Weight loss is a documented side effect experienced by some users. 

Is Ozempic licensed for weight loss in the UK?

Ozempic is only prescribed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in the UK and is not available as a weight loss treatment.

Is there an alternative to Ozempic for weight loss?

Currently in the UK, semaglutide for weight management is available via prescription under the brand name Wegovy. The drug, manufactured by Novo Nordisk, has shown promise in clinical trials to reduce 15% in body weight after one year, alongside a calorie-controlled diet and physical exercise.

How can I access Wegovy?

Wegovy is a prescribed treatment for those struggling to lose weight even with a reduced-calorie diet and physical exercise. You can be prescribed Wegovy if you are:

• An adult who is classed as obese (BMI over 30)

• An adult who is classed as overweight (BMI over 27) with weight-related health conditions, such as high blood pressure.

If you feel like you need assistance with weight loss, you should consult your doctor or healthcare professional. They will assess your health and lifestyle and may suggest a weight management prescription. 

If you need a free consultation, visit our online doctor tool. Our healthcare professionals will be able to offer independent advice about weight loss treatments.

Will Wegovy make me lose weight?

While Wegovy can be a helpful treatment to assist with weight management, it isn’t a quick fix for weight loss. In order for Wegovy to work effectively, it must be taken alongside a reduced-calorie diet and physical exercise.

Tips for weight management

Whilst weight loss treatments such as Wegovy can assist you in your weight management journey, it’s essential to combine them with healthy lifestyle changes for long-term success. 

Diet changes for weight management

Prioritising a balanced diet is one-half of the journey. In order to lose weight, you should aim to cut your daily calorie intake by 600 calories. You also need to fuel your body with the right nutrients:

• Focus on whole foods: Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your diet. 

• Limit processed foods: Reduce your intake of sugary drinks, fast food, and highly processed snacks.

• Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and support overall health - try to drink around 6-8 cups a day.

Incorporating a balanced, healthy diet into your life will help fuel your body effectively, keeping you full and energised to take on physical exercise.

Physical exercise changes for weight management

Physical exercise is the other half of your weight loss journey. Getting your body moving can help burn calories and keep your body strong. You should aim to do at least 150 minutes of moderate activity, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity, a week.

Moderate activity can include:

• Brisk walks

• Cycling 

• Dancing

• Hiking

Vigorous activity can include: 

• Running 

• Swimming

• Fast cycling 

• Football

• Aerobics 

It’s important to find an exercise that you enjoy or an exercise you can perform with others; this will help keep you engaged and committed to your goals.

Weight management resources

If you’re just starting your weight loss journey and would like to learn more, visit our blog which is full of helpful tips and resources to help you along the way.