If it feels like you’ve been hearing about Ozempic, Wegovy or other weight loss drugs everywhere lately, you’re not alone. These medications have made headlines and sparked conversations on social media, but with all the buzz, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction.
If you’ve been wondering whether these medications might be right for you or someone you love, here’s what you need to know about how they work, who they’re intended for, and why they’re only part of the bigger picture when it comes to long-term health.
What Are These Medications, and How Do They Work?
Ozempic and Wegovy are brand-name versions of a medication called semaglutide, which belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. Originally developed to help people manage type 2 diabetes, these drugs mimic a natural hormone in your body called GLP-1, which helps control hunger and blood sugar.
They achieve this by:
- Slowing digestion (so you feel fuller longer)
- Reducing appetite and cravings
- Improving insulin sensitivity
Wegovy is specifically FDA-approved for weight management in people who meet certain criteria. Ozempic is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, but some doctors prescribe it off-label for weight loss.
Who Are These Drugs Meant For?
Weight loss medications like Wegovy aren’t for everyone, and they’re not meant to be a quick fix.
According to the FDA, these medications are approved for people who:
- Have a BMI* of 30 or higher (classified as obesity), or
- Have a BMI of 27 or higher (overweight) and at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol
*While BMI isn’t a perfect measurement, it’s one tool health care providers use to help assess overall health risks.
GLP-1 medications are not recommended for people with a personal or family history of certain thyroid cancers or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome. That’s why it’s so important to talk with your doctor before starting anything new.
What Are the Risks and Side Effects?
Like any medication, weight loss drugs can have side effects. The most common ones include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Headache
- Fatigue
These side effects are often mild and may go away as your body adjusts. More serious risks, while rare, include gallbladder issues, pancreatitis, and kidney problems.
Why Lifestyle Still Matters
Even when these medications are effective, they work best when combined with healthy lifestyle habits. That means:
- Eating a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, whole grains, fruits and vegetables
- Getting regular exercise (aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week)
- Managing stress and sleep, which can both affect metabolism and appetite
Studies have shown that people who combine medication with lifestyle changes tend to lose more weight and keep it off longer than those who rely on medication alone. In many cases, weight loss also leads to improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels — important health wins beyond the scale. The Obesity Medicine Association adds that while these medications can help lower the barrier to behavior change, healthy habits are still essential for long-term success.
Is It a Lifetime Commitment?
That tends to be one of the most common questions many people have when considering taking GLP-1s. For many people, weight tends to return if the medication is stopped, especially if no other long-term changes are in place. That doesn’t mean you’ll need to be on these medications forever, but it does mean that working closely with your health care provider to create a long-term plan is key.
Some people may use medication to kick-start weight loss and gradually taper off under medical guidance. Others may benefit from staying on it longer, especially if they have ongoing metabolic concerns. Your doctor will work with you on a plan to gradually lower your dosage based on your goals and long-term maintenance.
Talk to Your Doctor First
Whether you’re curious about these medications or have already started them, the best thing you can do is have an open and honest conversation with your doctor. They’ll help you understand your options, monitor for side effects, and create a plan that supports your whole health, not just the number on the scale.
Weight loss is personal, and your care should be, too. If you’re interested in learning more about GLP-1 medications or exploring other ways to reach a healthier weight, talk with your doctor or a specialist in weight management. To find a physician on staff with Texas Health, visit TexasHealth.org/Doctors.
Sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- Obesity Medicine Association
- American Diabetes Association (ADA)
- New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM)