The Other Side of Ozempic: What You Need to Know About This Popular Weight Loss Injection

Ozempic (semaglutide) has received significant attention as a new tool in weight management. Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, it is now widely used — both legally and off-label — for weight loss. While some users report impressive results, it’s important to understand that Ozempic is a prescription medication with real risks, side effects, and long-term concerns.

As a clinical nutritionist, my goal is to offer balanced, evidence-based information. Below is a closer look at the potential drawbacks of relying on Ozempic for weight loss.

1. Ozempic Is a Medication – Not a Lifestyle Change

Ozempic works by mimicking a hormone (GLP-1) that helps regulate insulin and appetite. This can lead to reduced hunger and lower food intake. However, the weight loss is largely driven by appetite suppression, not improved nutrition, movement, or lifestyle habits.

Why this matters: Once the medication is stopped, many people report rapid weight regain — especially if foundational health behaviours haven’t changed. Ozempic doesn’t teach how to eat well, move regularly, or manage stress — it simply turns down the dial on hunger.

2. Side Effects Are Common and Often Underreported

While some tolerate Ozempic well, many experience unpleasant or even severe side effects. These include:

• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea

• Constipation and abdominal pain

• Fatigue, dizziness, and headaches

• Bloating and feeling overly full

In clinical trials, up to 44% of participants reported gastrointestinal side effects, with some requiring discontinuation of treatment.

Long-term use is still being studied, and there are questions about the medication’s effect on gallbladder function, kidney health, and nutrient absorption over time.

3. Ozempic Can Be Nutritionally Risky

Appetite suppression may sound like a dream solution for weight loss — but in practice, it can lead to nutrient deficiencies if food intake becomes too limited. Many users report eating very little due to nausea or early satiety.

Long-term nutritional shortfalls can impact:

• Immune function

• Energy levels

• Mental health

• Hormonal balance

This is especially concerning when Ozempic is used without proper dietary support or professional guidance.

4. It’s Not Approved for Everyone

Ozempic is not suitable for people with:

• A personal or family history of thyroid cancer

• Pancreatitis

• Type 1 diabetes

• Certain gastrointestinal disorders

Yet it is increasingly being accessed off-label for weight loss — sometimes without thorough screening or monitoring.

Misuse of prescription medication can carry serious risks, especially without medical oversight.

5. Cost and Access Are Ongoing Issues

Ozempic is not subsidised for weight loss in Australia. Many users pay out of pocket, with costs often exceeding $130–$200 per month. Due to high demand, shortages have been reported, leaving some diabetic patients unable to access essential treatment.

The ethical dilemma: Widespread off-label use for weight loss may limit access for those who rely on Ozempic for blood sugar management and cardiovascular protection.

6. Psychological Impact

There’s growing concern about the mental and emotional impact of using Ozempic long-term, especially if weight becomes the sole focus.

• Fear of weight regain when stopping

• Dependence on a medication for body image confidence

• Disordered eating patterns due to extreme hunger suppression

A sustainable approach to weight and wellness needs to include self-compassion, body awareness, and long-term behavioural strategies.

In Summary

Ozempic may offer short-term weight loss results, but it is not a silver bullet. It comes with risks — both physical and psychological — and does not replace the benefits of a whole food diet, movement, sleep, stress reduction, and practitioner support.

If long-term health and sustainable weight management are the goals, programs like Ultra Lite offer a real-food, practitioner-supported alternative — without the need for needles or side-effect risks.

Evidence-Based, Not Hype-Driven

Weight loss is complex. Medications have a place for certain individuals under supervision, but it's essential to look beyond the quick fix and focus on what supports the body, not suppresses it.