Obesity has emerged as a global epidemic, leading to various health complications such as insulin resistance, hypertension, and elevated cholesterol levels. This chronic condition is closely associated with type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and fatty liver disease, all of which significantly reduce both quality of life and life expectancy. The Covid-19 pandemic further underscored the severe health risks of obesity, with obese individuals experiencing more severe symptoms and higher mortality rates.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is crucial in addressing obesity. This involves transitioning to healthier food choices, increasing physical activity, and undergoing regular health check-ups. However, expecting immediate and drastic lifestyle changes is unrealistic. It is more effective to set small, achievable goals and gradually build upon them. For example, starting with short 10-minute daily walks is more practical than expecting someone who has never exercised to immediately start a rigorous gym routine.

Controlling appetite remains one of the most challenging aspects of weight management. Even with dietary adjustments and portion control, sustaining these changes depends heavily on appetite regulation. Recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for weight loss, Ozempic (semaglutide) was initially introduced for treating type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. Due to significant weight loss observed in users, subsequent studies explored its effectiveness for weight loss alone, with no serious long-term side effects reported.

Ozempic is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analog, a natural hormone that plays a crucial role in appetite control and glucose metabolism. It stimulates insulin secretion only when blood sugar levels are elevated, preventing hypoglycemia. Additionally, it reduces glucagon secretion, preventing blood sugar spikes. Ozempic also delays gastric emptying, leading to prolonged satiety and reduced food intake, which in turn promotes weight and fat loss.

One notable effect of Ozempic is its ability to reduce cravings for high-fat foods. Extensive clinical trials demonstrated that weekly Ozempic injections led to successful weight loss in 86% of users, averaging about 14.9% of their initial body weight. Following FDA approval, 32% of users achieved weight loss exceeding 20% of their body weight. While the amount of weight loss varies among individuals, the benefits extend beyond mere weight reduction.

In addition to weight and fat loss, Ozempic treatment significantly lowers the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes by 26%. It also improves insulin sensitivity, regulates cholesterol levels, and normalizes blood pressure, all contributing positively to overall health.

Ozempic is suitable for individuals with type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, or chronic weight issues. However, it should not be used by individuals with MEN2 syndrome or a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). Although Ozempic and Saxenda function similarly to control appetite and induce weight loss, Ozempic's once-weekly administration distinguishes it from daily Saxenda injections. Clinical trials have demonstrated superior weight loss results and fewer side effects with Ozempic.

Common side effects of Ozempic include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, abdominal pain, indigestion, diarrhea, and constipation, which are usually mild to moderate in severity. Though rare, acute pancreatitis and gallstone formation have been reported in GLP-1 analogs, necessitating regular medical monitoring during treatment.

Before starting Ozempic treatment, various tests are recommended to assess underlying metabolic issues and overall health. These tests include CBC, liver enzymes, iron levels, kidney function tests, blood sugar, insulin levels, thyroid function, lipid profile, vitamin levels, and tumor markers. Individuals with a family history of thyroid cancer should also undergo thyroid ultrasound and periodic checks.

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