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One of the most talked about topics in the world of celebrity as of late is Ozempic.
Who’s on it? Who is not? Is it safe? Are there ethical and moral complications to using such a drug? These are many of the questions, and more, raised about the semaglutide-based drug, which has been attributed to the major weight loss of many A-listers over the last 18 months.
Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, Keke Palmer, Jessica Simpson and more have all been rumoured to have taken the drug at some point, while other celebrities including Oprah Winfrey, Sharon Obsourne, Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star Heather Gay and more have admitted to actually using Ozempic for a period of time.
With endless speculations as comparisons of before-and-after photos of celebrities surface, hinting at the drug’s possible role in their transformations.
While the truth behind these claims is another question entirely, one thing is clear — the trend is gaining traction in the UAE, catching the attention of doctors and patients alike.
GRAZIA spoke to Dr Ruhil Badiani, a family physician, at Cornerstone Clinic in Dubai that focuses on medical treatments as well as aesthetics.
What Is Ozempic Used For?
While the medicine was initially hailed for its effectiveness in regulating blood sugar levels, an unexpected side effect emerged during clinical trials: weight loss. Patients using Ozempic reported significant reductions in body weight, prompting further investigation into its potential as a weight management tool. Dr. Badiani explained that many individuals are now turning to Ozempic solely for its ability to trim inches from their waistlines, igniting a wave of interest in its weight management potential.
What are the differences between Ozempic, Wegovy & Mounjaro?
Ozempic is a brand name and the medicine with the same active ingredient, semaglutide, which belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. The drug is also sold under the name Wegovy, which uses the same key ingredient. Those looking into using it have also come across another medication called Mounjaro, however, it is not the same as Ozempic or Wegovy Dr Badiani explained. “It’s totally different than Ozempic and the active ingredient is tirzepatide in Mounjaro.” The latter is “supposed to be better at weight loss,” Dr Badiani said.
Are people in the UAE using Ozempic and Mounjaro?
Like many parts of the world, the trend has made its way to the UAE as well. “In the last year and a half, the demand has massively increased,” Dr. Badiani said.
Why are people using it now more than ever?
“I think people see it as a way to lose weight,” Dr. Badiani remarked. “For what it does, it can be a lifesaver, to get people to exercise, get healthy, learn portion size.” She also emphasised the significant health benefits associated with weight loss, including reduced risks of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
“Some people say that it’s the easy way out, I don’t think that,” Dr. Badiani continued. “There is a portion of people who cannot lose weight despite lifestyle changes, and this is a great medication for that.”
Here’s What To Keep In Mind
“It must be started by a doctor,” Dr. Badiani emphasised. “They must be monitoring your weight and sugar levels and carrying out blood tests. Nobody should be going to the pharmacy and picking this up.”
One of the issues with the medication is the loss of muscle mass it can cause, Dr Badiani explained, stressing once again on the importance of starting it under medical supervision.
“I think that pharmacists are becoming more strict due to stock issues and they are requesting prescriptions, which is great,” she added. “Also, you have to be careful with Ozempic because one of the effects of Ozempic is losing muscle mass.”
As we keep an eye on the Ozempic phenomenon unfolding, for now, the medication has presented an option for those looking to manage their health. From diabetes aid to weight loss tool, one thing is for sure, the use of it has sparked a discussion about health and lifestyle choices.
