The weight loss drug is everywhere, and the chatter doesn’t look to be dying down. So we decided to do a deep dive into it and ask the experts. From what it is, to how it works, and even which star has recently admitted to using it, here’s what we know.
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic works by managing the blood glucose level and HbA1c (average blood sugar level) in people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. It is usually injected once per week, and is used alongside a healthy diet and exercise regime for patients.
Ozempic is a semaglutide, which is a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. These copy the action of GLP-1 — a naturally occurring hormone produced by the pancreas that helps to release the right amount of insulin when blood sugar levels are high. The drug reduces patient’s appetites, resulting in weight loss, but this is not what it was originally designer for.
One study following patients that used semaglutide each week for a year concluded that participants regained two-thirds of their prior wright loss.
How does Ozempic work?
Ozempic mimics a naturally occurring hormone, and as that hormone rises the molecules go to your brain telling you you’re full. It also slows digestion, which is a similar effect of bariatric surgery.
‘Ozempic works by slowing gut motility, so basically it makes your guts move slowly, meaning food lingers in for a little bit longer, so you feel full quicker and you actually stay full for longer,’ explains GP Dr Ahmed El Muntasar. As a side effect, individuals on the medication can also experience weight loss.
Concerns over Ozempic usage
While the drug certainly helps to lower blood sugar in those with diabetes, there are concerns over people misusing the drug simply as a quick fix to manage – and lose – weight. It appeals to people because it’s near effortless. The problem with this is that it’s created a surge in demand globally, resulting in Ozempic shortages, leaving diabetics, who rely on the drug, in a dangerous situation.
And the side effects can be fairly horrible, including nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain and constipation, to name a few. Because the drug is relatively new, too, there’s little research when it comes to long-term usage.
What’s more, concerns have recently arisen regarding suicidal thoughts amongst users. As medical authorities research its safety when it comes to our mental health, the search for the next best natural alternative has erupted. Now, TikTok claims it has found the answer: Berberine.
What is berberine?
Berberine is a naturally occurring compound in goldenseal, Oregon grape, tree turmeric, and other plants. Traditionally used in Asian medicine, it is typically found in supplements. Lately it has been dubbed by influencers as ‘nature’s Ozempic’, and the hashtag #berberine currently as 54.1M views on TikTok.
Physicians and dietitians have cautioned that its long-term effects are unclear. I.e. proceed with caution, as with all weight loss ‘hacks’.
Is Ozempic available in Australia?
Ozempic and other GLP-1 receptor agonists are approved for use in Australia when prescribed by a doctor, subject to certain conditions. These drugs are not widely available at the moment, and it is likely to remain limited for the year due to a global shortage. Prescribers have been advised to limit new patients due to this shortage.
Celebrities and Ozempic
Celebrities have also been known to use the drug, including Rebel Wilson who recently shared that Ozempic was incorporated into her weight loss regime. Alongside a high-protein, low-sugar diet, Wilson changer her physique. Speaking to The Sunday Times, the Pitch Perfect actress, who is currently promoting his memoir Rebel Rising, shared her brief experience with Ozempic.
“Someone like me could have a bottomless appetite for sweets, so I think those drugs can be good,” said the 44-year-old.
“Basically no one apart from my mom wanted me to lose weight. People thought I’d lose my pigeonhole in my career, playing the fat funny character, and they wanted me to continue in that.”
Rebel went on to state, “I feel strongly that young women shouldn’t try to obsess over looking like Victoria’s Secret models — they should just look like themselves. I know that my relationship with food is complicated but I am happy with my still curvy and solid weight.”
“I really think beauty is at any shape and size so I do really promote that.”
Getty Images
Women’s Health does not endorse off-label use of the medication and always advocates for lifestyle-first weight loss methods. For any questions about weight loss medications, contact your GP or pharmacist.
