Ozempic (semaglutide) has reshaped obesity medicine. Originally approved for type 2 diabetes, its weight loss effects have made it globally sought-after.
What Is Ozempic?
Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide — a GLP-1 receptor agonist by Novo Nordisk. A weekly injection approved by the FDA in 2017 for type 2 diabetes. Wegovy is the higher-dose version approved specifically for chronic weight management.
How It Causes Weight Loss
GLP-1 is naturally released after eating — signalling the pancreas to release insulin, slowing gastric emptying, and sending satiety signals to the brain. Semaglutide mimics this hormone continuously, creating persistent reduced appetite. Most users report genuinely not feeling hungry — a novel experience for many who have struggled with cravings for years.
Clinical Results
The landmark STEP trials showed average weight loss of 14.9% of body weight at 68 weeks (2.4mg Wegovy dose). For a 200 lb person: ~30 lbs. Results vary — some lose 5-8%, others 20%+. Weight tends to return if medication stops without lifestyle changes.
Side Effects
Nausea (44%), diarrhoea (30%), vomiting, constipation. These typically improve after 4-8 weeks. Rare serious risks: pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and theoretical thyroid risk (animal studies only at very high doses).
Who Qualifies
BMI ≥30, or BMI ≥27 with one weight-related comorbidity. See our full eligibility guide →
2025 Cost
Without US insurance: Ozempic ~$900-$1,000/month; Wegovy ~$1,300-$1,400/month. Manufacturer savings cards can significantly reduce costs. See our complete cost guide →