Pharmaceutical advancements have led to innovative diabetes medications such as Ozempic and Semaglutide. These drugs belong to a class known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and have shown promise in helping individuals with type 2 diabetes achieve better glycemic control. Although seemingly an attractive treatment option, Ozempic and Semaglutide are not the ideal route to long-term weight loss. At Obesity Control Center, we offer better, more effective solutions.
What Are Weightloss injections?
Semaglutide and its name-brand counterpart, Ozempic, are medications designed to enhance insulin secretion, suppress glucagon release, and slow gastric emptying. Due to the nature of these medications, they have quickly become a widely popular weight loss tool sought out by many. However, these injections are not the only option - bariatric surgery, lifestyle changes, and dietiary improvements are at the top of the list for efficacy. Weight loss injections may not be the safest option, either. Let’s discuss the main side effects of using these types of medications.
Common Side Effects
- Gastrointestinal Distress: One of the most frequently reported side effects of Ozempic and Semaglutide is gastrointestinal discomfort. Patients may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. These symptoms often occur during the initial weeks of treatment and may subside after a few weeks.
- Injection Site Reactions: Both medications are administered via subcutaneous injection, which may lead to local reactions such as redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site.
- Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia occurs when your blood sugar (glucose) level falls too low for bodily functions to continue. While Ozempic and Semaglutide are not known to cause hypoglycemia, the risk of low blood sugar levels increases. Patients should be educated on recognizing the symptoms of hypoglycemia and how to manage it appropriately.
- Pancreatitis: GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic and Semaglutide have been associated with pancreatitis in rare cases. Patients should be advised to seek medical attention immediately if they experience persistent abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, as this could be indicative of a pancreatic issue.
Better Results Are Possible With Bariatric Surgery
Ozempic and Semaglutide represent additions to the wide variety of diabetes medications, offering benefits such as improved blood sugar control and potential weight loss. However, patients and healthcare professionals must be aware of the possible side effects associated with these medications. Gastrointestinal disturbances, injection site reactions, hypoglycemia, and pancreatitis should be monitored and addressed as needed.
Due to these many factors and risks, we recommend seeking other treatment options. At Obesity Control Center, we invite you to consider one of the many forms of bariatric surgery instead. We have pioneered multiple surgical techniques used worldwide, such as the IGS Improved Gastric Sleeve®, and have performed over 25,000 successful procedures.
Our surgeons at Obesity Control Center are world leaders in bariatric surgery. They have developed proprietary techniques for improved surgical outcomes, a faster recovery time, and success in long-term weight loss. Your well-being and providing the utmost care in your weight loss journey are our top priorities. Contact us to learn more about our various weight loss procedures, and schedule a consultation today!
