What you’ll learn:
- Ozempic®, originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes, has been gaining attention for its off-label use in weight loss.
- Ozempic® mimics the GLP-1 hormone, helping to slow down digestion and reduce appetite, making people feel fuller with less food.
- Pairing Ozempic® with a comprehensive approach, like Noom’s lifestyle and behavior change programs, may enhance long-term weight management success.
Ozempic® is a diabetes medication that has been all over the news and social media because of its potential weight loss benefits. Though it has only been FDA-approved for diabetes management, it can be prescribed off-label for weight loss. The increased spotlight on Ozempic® has led to many questions about what this means for people looking for new options in their weight loss journey. Understanding what Ozempic® is, how it works, and its potential risks and benefits is a must for anyone considering Ozempic® for weight loss.
If you want to know more about whether Ozempic® or another medication is right for you, see if you qualify for Noom Med. If you do, you’ll be paired with a clinician who can determine whether you’d benefit from weight loss medication. They’ll explore whether Ozempic® or similar medications are right for you and prescribe them if applicable.
What is Ozempic®: The basics
Let’s begin with a general overview of what Ozempic® is and what it can do.
What exactly is Ozempic®?
Ozempic® is an injectable form of the medication semaglutide. Semaglutide is classified as a type of medication called GLP-1 receptor agonist. GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone that is naturally produced in the body. It helps regulate blood sugar levels and contributes to a feeling of fullness after you’ve eaten.
Semaglutide mimics and acts like the GLP-1 hormone in the body. It is not the actual GLP-1 hormone itself but a drug that activates the same receptors as GLP-1.
In summary:
- GLP-1 is a natural hormone
- Semaglutide (Ozempic®) is a medication that acts like/mimics the GLP-1 hormone
- This helps regulate blood sugar levels and can help people lose weight by making them feel fuller longer and slow how fast the stomach empties. Semaglutide also influences GLP 1 receptors in the brain that control appetite and satiety.
Ozempic® is currently approved by the FDA to treat type 2 diabetes but can be prescribed off-label for weight loss.
How does Ozempic® work inside the body?
High-quality meds. Powerful psychology-based weight loss.
- Starting at $149/month
- Meds to your door in 7 days
- 100% online access to coaches and doctors
- Backed by Noom's award winning behavior change program
Medications require consultation and prescription by clinician through Noom platform. Not all customers will qualify for prescription. Compounded semaglutide is produced in an FDA-registered facility but not reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy or quality.
Ozempic® was originally developed to control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It works by signaling the body to release more insulin and reduce the amount of the hormone glucagon being produced.
Insulin helps lower blood sugar levels. Glucagon has the opposite effect—it triggers the liver into releasing stored sugar into the bloodstream, raising blood sugar levels. By promoting insulin and lowering glucagon, Ozempic® helps blood sugar levels stay in a healthy range.
For a more technical explanation of how all this works, see our article: What are GLP-1s?
Does Ozempic® have uses beyond diabetes?
Although it’s officially approved for diabetes, Ozempic®’s ability to induce feelings of fullness and slow down how quickly the stomach empties has paved the way for its use in weight management. Doctors often prescribe Ozempic® “off-label” for weight loss because it can help reduce appetite and curb calorie intake.
How is Ozempic® taken or administered?
Ozempic® is given as a once-a-week injection under the skin with a pre-filled pen. Its once-weekly schedule is a big plus for anyone looking to manage diabetes or lose weight without having to take a daily medication.
Who typically gets prescribed Ozempic®?
Ozempic® is FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes. It can also be prescribed off-label for weight loss. It’s most effective when paired with a plan that includes diet and exercise, a plan that Noom or Noom Med can help you build
How much does Ozempic® cost?
The price tag for Ozempic® can vary widely based on where you live and if you have insurance. Without insurance, Ozempic® typically costs $968.52 per month (NovoCare). Aside from health insurance, other ways to bring the cost down include looking for a medication coupon or ordering a 90-day supply from an online pharmacy.
Novo Nordisk—the manufacturer of Ozempic®—offers a savings card (for insured patients) and a patient assistance program (for non-insured patients). However, insurance companies rarely, if ever, cover Ozempic® for off-label weight loss, and the savings and patient assistance program will also likely not apply.
If you qualify for Noom Med, your clinician can prescribe other medications that might be covered by your insurance. You can also consider compounded semaglutide* through Noom GLP-1Rx. Our compounded semaglutide option contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic and Wegovy but starts at $149 per month. Ask your clinician if it might be right for you.
What is Ozempic®: Evaluating the weight loss hype
Why has Ozempic® become a hot topic in weight loss discussions? Let’s unpack the growing interest in this medication as a tool for managing weight. How effective is it, and what users can realistically expect from incorporating it into their health plan?
How does Ozempic® help with weight loss?
Ozempic®’s benefits include a unique way of working on your body’s biology. By slowing down digestion and reducing your appetite, it can help you feel fuller with less food. This results in an overall decrease in calorie intake, making it easier to manage weight.
What does “off-label use” mean in the context of Ozempic®?
“Off-label use” is the practice of prescribing medication for a purpose outside of the approved use by regulatory agencies. In the case of Ozempic®, while it’s officially approved for managing diabetes, doctors may prescribe it for weight loss based on its effectiveness in reducing appetite and calorie intake.
Is Ozempic® a sustainable solution for weight management?
Sustainability with Ozempic® can vary. It’s typically used as part of a broader lifestyle change, including diet and exercise. For some, it can be a valuable tool for long-term weight management, especially when used under medical supervision and integrated with healthy habits.
Where can I get Ozempic® for weight loss?
Ozempic® must be prescribed by a healthcare provider. If you’re considering it for weight loss, it’s essential to discuss it with your doctor, who is best equipped to evaluate its suitability for your specific needs. If you qualify for Noom Med, our clinicians can determine if it, or another medication, is right for you.
What lifestyle changes should accompany the use of Ozempic®?
Incorporating Ozempic®’s benefits into your health plan should go hand-in-hand with adopting a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Effective weight management often involves a holistic approach that combines medical treatment with lifestyle adjustments.
What is Ozempic®: Side effects and safety considerations
Ozempic® offers significant benefits for diabetes management and weight loss. But like any medication, it comes with potential side effects. It’s important to be aware of these and know when to contact your healthcare provider. Here are common questions about the safety and side effects of using Ozempic®.
What are the most common side effects of Ozempic®?
Many users experience mild to moderate side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and constipation. These symptoms are usually temporary and often diminish as your body adjusts to the medication.
How can I manage nausea and other digestive side effects associated with Ozempic®?
Managing these side effects involves simple adjustments, like avoiding foods that are overly rich, spicy, or fatty. Eating smaller and more frequent meals throughout the day can also help reduce side effects. Staying hydrated and eating bland, easy-to-digest foods can also help alleviate symptoms.
Is muscle loss a side effect of Ozempic®?
One effect of Ozempic® is making the body think it is full, resulting in reduced calorie intake and weight loss. However, with weight loss, anywhere between 20 and 40% can be muscle loss. If you don’t eat enough protein and do some resistance exercises, you won’t be able to rebuild muscle.
Thankfully, Noom has strategies to help minimize this side effect. You can also use the GLP-1 Companion to track your protein intake, ensuring you are getting enough to preserve muscle as you lose weight. Incorporating strength training is another way to protect and build muscles while losing fat.
Should I stop taking Ozempic® if I experience side effects?
It’s essential to consult your clinician before changing your medication regimen. They can guide managing side effects or adjusting your dosage if necessary.
When should I call my doctor about the side effects of Ozempic®?
If side effects persist or worsen, or if you experience severe symptoms such as significant abdominal pain, continuous vomiting, or signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., a rash or itchiness, swelling in the face or mouth, dizziness, etc.), contact your clinician immediately.
Are there risks associated with using Ozempic® for weight loss?
As with any medication, there are risks, particularly when used off-label for weight loss. It’s vital to use Ozempic® under the supervision of a healthcare provider who can monitor its effects on your body.
How often should I be monitored by my doctor while taking Ozempic®?
Regular monitoring is key when on Ozempic®. Your clinician will likely schedule follow-ups to check your progress, adjust dosages, and ensure the medication works effectively without adverse effects.
By keeping these safety considerations in mind, people using Ozempic® can better manage their treatment and minimize potential side effects. This awareness also paves the way for integrating medication into a broader health strategy, like Noom’s, which complements medical interventions with behavioral changes.
What is Ozempic®: The role of Ozempic® in Noom’s holistic approach
If you’re considering using Ozempic® for weight loss, you may wonder how Noom can support your journey. Here are some frequently asked questions about how Noom and Noom Med integrate with Ozempic® treatment:
Can Noom Med help me get Ozempic® for weight loss?
Noom Med offers telehealth consultations with licensed healthcare providers who can prescribe medications like Ozempic® when appropriate. This service is designed to provide a seamless experience for those seeking medical support alongside Noom’s behavior change program. They can also consider other branded medications, like Wegovy® or Zepbound®, or compounded semaglutide through Noom GLP-1Rx.
How does the Noom approach complement the use of Ozempic®?
Noom focuses on building sustainable healthy habits through psychology-based techniques, which can make Ozempic® even more effective. By combining medication with lifestyle changes like improved nutrition and increased physical activity, you may experience better long-term weight loss results and overall health improvements.
How does Noom help address the potential side effects of Ozempic®?
Noom’s GLP-1 Companion can help you manage side effects by providing strategies for dealing with digestive issues, maintaining a balanced diet, and staying motivated. If you use Noom Med, your clinician can offer personalized guidance and support as you navigate challenges while taking Ozempic®.
Can Noom help me develop healthy habits to maintain the weight loss achieved with Ozempic®?
Yes, Noom is designed to help you build lasting healthy habits that can support long-term weight maintenance. By pairing science with personalization, Noom empowers you to make sustainable changes that can help you maintain your progress even after you stop taking Ozempic®.
Is Noom suitable for everyone considering Ozempic®?
Noom’s program can benefit many people considering Ozempic®. It can help you access personalized advice to ensure you receive the most appropriate care plan for your unique situation.
It’s clear that true wellness isn’t just about popping a pill or following a diet; it’s about combining medical interventions with solid, sustainable lifestyle shifts. Ozempic® and other GLP-1 medications have their benefits, but when you combine that with Noom’s focus on behavioral changes, you’re setting yourself up for long-term success. If you use Noom Med, the blend of medical treatment and lifestyle overhaul doesn’t just improve health issues temporarily—it sets the stage for long-term health and well-being.
High-quality meds. Powerful psychology-based weight loss.
- Starting at $149/month
- Meds to your door in 7 days
- 100% online access to coaches and doctors
- Backed by Noom's award winning behavior change program
Medications require consultation and prescription by clinician through Noom platform. Not all customers will qualify for prescription. Compounded semaglutide is produced in an FDA-registered facility but not reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy or quality.
See if you qualify for Noom Med today and start paving the way for a healthier tomorrow.
*Compounded semaglutide available on the Noom platform is produced in an FDA-registered facility but not reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy, or quality.
Note: Ozempic® is not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.
