What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is an injectable medication containing the active ingredient semaglutide. It belongs to a group of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists - medications that mimic how the natural hormone GLP-1 works in your body¹.

Ozempic was originally developed and approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, where it helps regulate blood sugar levels. In recent years, however, it has increasingly been used for weight loss, although this is considered an “off-label” use in many countries. The key difference compared to Wegovy is that Wegovy is specifically approved for weight loss and is available in higher doses (up to 2.4 mg). Ozempic is available in doses of 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg. Both medications contain the same active ingredient - semaglutide - and work in the same way².

You take Ozempic once per week via a subcutaneous injection, meaning it is injected under the skin. You can administer it yourself in your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. The pen is prefilled and easy to use.

How does Ozempic work for weight loss?

To understand how Ozempic works, it helps to first understand what GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) does. GLP-1 is a hormone that your intestines naturally release after eating. It has several effects: it stimulates the pancreas to produce insulin, slows gastric emptying, and sends signals to your brain that you are full¹.

Ozempic mimics this GLP-1 hormone and enhances these natural effects. The most important mechanism for weight loss is appetite suppression. Because the stomach empties more slowly, you feel full for longer after meals³. Many users also notice a reduction in “food noise” -  - the constant thoughts about food. This makes it easier to eat smaller portions and snack less between meals.

In addition, Ozempic helps stabilize blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin production when blood sugar rises. Stable blood sugar means fewer spikes and crashes, which also helps reduce intense hunger and cravings¹.

How much weight can you lose with Ozempic?

The effects of semaglutides (such as Ozempic) on weight loss have been extensively studied in the STEP trials -  - large-scale clinical studies that evaluated the effectiveness of semaglutide. In these studies, participants lost an average of 10–15% of their body weight over a period of 68 weeks²˒⁵. This means that someone weighing 100 kg could lose approximately 10–15 kg.

It is important to emphasize that results vary from person to person. Some people lose more, others less. The best results were seen in individuals who combined Ozempic with a healthier diet and increased physical activity⁵. The medication is not a miracle cure -  - it is a tool that makes it easier to make healthier choices.

When can you expect results?
Most people begin to see weight loss within the first 4 to 8 weeks, but the greatest effect is usually achieved after 6 to 12 months⁵. You start with a low dose that is gradually increased, so patience is important.

A realistic expectation is that you can lose between 10 and 15% of your body weight in the first year if you combine Ozempic with lifestyle changes. This is clinically significant weight loss that can lead to real health benefits, such as improved blood sugar levels, lower blood pressure, and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.

Who is Ozempic suitable for?

Ozempic was primarily developed for adults with type 2 diabetes². For weight loss, it is (off-label) usually prescribed to people with a BMI of 30 or higher (obesity), or a BMI of 27 or higher in combination with weight-related health conditions such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. These BMI criteria are based on the European EMA registration of Wegovy® (semaglutide 2.4 mg), which is specifically approved for weight management; the use of Ozempic for weight loss constitutes off-label use within this same clinical framework⁸.

Ozempic may also be suitable for people with an increased cardiovascular risk. Research shows that semaglutide not only supports weight loss, but can also reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes in people with cardiovascular disease⁴.

Not everyone can use Ozempic safely. The medication is not suitable if you:

• Have type 1 diabetes

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma

• Have multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)

• Have a severe allergy to semaglutide or other ingredients

• Have a history of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)

A medical consultation is always required before starting Ozempic. A physician must review your medical history, check for possible interactions with other medications, and determine whether Ozempic is a safe and appropriate option for you⁶.

What are the side effects of Ozempic?

Like any medication, Ozempic can cause side effects. The most common side effects are related to the gastrointestinal system⁶.

This is because the medication slows gastric emptying. Many people experience the following in the first weeks:

• Nausea (the most commonly reported side effect)

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Constipation

• Abdominal pain or discomfort

The good news is that these side effects are often temporary. They are usually strongest during the first few weeks after starting Ozempic or when the dose is increased, and then gradually subside⁶.

Tips to reduce side effects:

• Eat smaller portions

• Avoid fatty or heavy meals

• Eat slowly and chew thoroughly

• Stay well hydrated

• Avoid alcohol, especially at the beginning

Although rare, more serious side effects are possible. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

• Severe abdominal pain that does not go away

• Signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling, breathing difficulties)

• Symptoms of pancreatitis (severe upper abdominal pain)

• Vision problems

• Signs of a thyroid issue (lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing)

How do you use Ozempic?

Ozempic comes in a prefilled pen that you use once per week. You inject the medication subcutaneously - under the skin - into your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. The injection is relatively painless and can be done at home after instruction from a healthcare professional⁶.

Standard dose escalation schedule:

• Weeks 1–4: Start with 0.25 mg per week (this is a titration dose, not a therapeutic dose)

• Weeks 5–8: Increase to 0.5 mg per week

• Week 9 and onward: Increase to 1 mg per week if needed

• Later, if required: Maximum dose of 2 mg per week

This gradual titration helps your body adjust to the medication and reduces the risk of severe side effects. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosing schedule based on your response and any side effects you experience⁶.

Practical tips for using Ozempic:

• Choose a fixed day of the week for your injection (e.g. every Monday)

• Rotate injection sites to prevent skin irritation

• Store unused pens in the refrigerator (2–8°C)

• An opened pen can be stored at room temperature for up to 56 days

• Dispose of used needles in a sharps container

Consistency is crucial. Try to administer your injection at roughly the same time each week. If you forget a dose, take it as soon as possible unless it is almost time for your next dose. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How long do you use Ozempic?

Ozempic is intended as a long-term treatment. The medication only works as long as you are using it - it is not a permanent solution, but a tool for long-term weight management. Studies show that when people stop using Ozempic, appetite returns within weeks and, on average, about two-thirds of the lost weight is regained within one year⁷.

This does not mean you must use Ozempic forever, but it does mean that sustainable behavior change is essential. Many people continue using Ozempic to maintain their weight, while others successfully stop by permanently adapting their lifestyle - healthy nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.

Important: never stop Ozempic abruptly without consulting your doctor. If you are ready to stop, create a gradual tapering and weight-maintenance plan together. The best results are achieved by viewing Ozempic as part of a broader lifestyle change, not a quick fix.

Conclusion

Ozempic is a proven and effective medication for weight loss that works by reducing appetite and helping you feel full for longer. With average weight loss of 10–15%, it delivers clinically significant results, but it is not a miracle cure. The best outcomes are achieved by combining Ozempic with a healthier diet and increased physical activity. Side effects such as nausea are usually temporary and manageable. It is essential to use Ozempic under medical supervision, with a clear dosing schedule and regular follow-up.

Medically supervised weight loss at Menkind

At Menkind, you gain access to the most relevant range of GLP-1 medications, including Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Rybelsus. You receive unlimited medical support from BIG-registered physicians, and the entire process is safe and discreet. Menkind is specifically developed for men, because we understand that your needs and challenges are unique. Want to know if GLP-1 medication is right for you? Start the medical intake today and discover which treatment suits you best.

References

1. Collins, L. & Costello, R. A. (2024). Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists. StatPearls. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551568/

2. Davies, M., Færch, L., Jeppesen, O. K., et al. (2021). Semaglutide 2.4 mg once a week in adults with overweight or obesity, and type 2 diabetes (STEP 2): a randomised, double-blind, double-dummy, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial. Lancet, 397(10278), 971–984. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33667417/

3. Blundell, J., Finlayson, G., Axelsen, M., et al. (2017). Effects of once-weekly semaglutide on appetite, energy intake, control of eating, food preference and body weight in subjects with obesity. Diabetes, Obesity & Metabolism, 19(9), 1242–1251. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28266779/

4. Marso, S. P., Bain, S. C., Consoli, A., et al. (2016). Semaglutide and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes. The New England Journal of Medicine, 375(19), 1834–1844. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27633186/

5. Garvey, W. T., Batterham, R. L., Bhatta, M., et al. (2022). Two-year effects of semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity: the STEP 5 trial. Nature Medicine, 28, 2083–2091. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36216945/

6. Kommu, S. & Whitfield, P. (2024). Semaglutide. StatPearls. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK603723/

7. Rubino, D., Abrahamsson, N., Davies, M., et al. (2021). Effect of continued weekly subcutaneous semaglutide vs placebo on weight loss maintenance in adults with overweight or obesity: The STEP 4 randomized clinical trial. JAMA, 325(14), 1414–1425. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33755728/

8. European Medicines Agency. (2024). Wegovy (semaglutide): EPAR - Productinformatie. https://www.ema.europa.eu/nl/documents/product-information/wegovy-epar-product-information_nl.pdf