The Dangers of Ozempic for Weight Loss as a Non-Diabetic
The meteoric rise of Ozempic for weight loss as a non-diabetic has had a serious impact on general health, especially for those struggling with eating disorders.
You may have seen celebrities, influencers, and other public figures promoting these drugs without discussing the risks and potential side effects. Or worse, claiming their weight loss is the result of diet or exercise and omitting the truth of how their body is changing.
Oprah Winfrey, who has previously opened up about her use of weight loss medication, even released a special on Ozempic, aimed at addressing the shame and stigma associated with weight—while also promoting Ozempic at the same time.
All of this promotes the impossible body ideal, leading to more disordered eating and eating disorders. What’s more, the long-term personal and public health impact of Ozempic is still unknown.
If you’re considering taking Ozempic for weight loss as a non-diabetic because you feel you should or maybe your doctor told you to do it—please read this first.
What is Ozempic?
This is not the first weight loss drug to pose a severe danger to the public—but it is the newest. Ozempic, developed by Novo Nordisk, is a prescription diabetes medication. However, in recent years, Ozempic and other GLB-1 medications have become increasingly popular for off-label use as a tool for “weight management” and to drive rapid weight loss.
The generic name for Ozempic is semaglutide, and it can be taken orally or by injection, often in the form of over-the-counter medication. Primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes, it is sold for that purpose under the brand names Rybelsius and Ozempic.
When administered, Ozempic activates GLP-1 receptors, leading to increased insulin release from pancreatic beta cells and decreased glucagon secretion from pancreatic alpha cells. This dual action helps lower blood sugar levels and promotes satiety, making it an attractive option for quick and significant weight loss.
When being sold expressly for weight loss, it can also be found under the brand name Wegovy. Its effects include decreasing blood sugar levels, lowering appetite, and slowing down digestion, which causes reduced food intake and results in less body fat.
Off-Label Use for Weight Loss
Off-label use refers to the practice of prescribing medication for purposes other than those approved by regulatory agencies. In the case of Ozempic, its off-label use for weight loss in non-diabetic individuals has gained traction. Thanks to our body-weight-obsessed culture, it's become increasingly popular.
The emergence of Ozempic as a weight loss aid outside of its approved indication raises significant concerns. While some individuals may experience weight loss with Ozempic, the risks and potential health consequences associated with off-label use cannot be overlooked.
The Dangers of Ozempic for Weight Loss
If you've struggled with chronic weight management, an eating disorder, or struggle with diet culture and disordered eating, a quick and easy way to experience weight reduction is appealing.
Yet, non-diabetic individuals taking this medication without a diagnosis, as a way to lose weight, are in extreme danger. Ozempic can cause severe harm to your mental and physical health long-term. Here are some of the most common and concerning Ozempic side effects to be aware of.
Gastrointestinal Issues
Common side effects of Ozempic include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can be bothersome and impact the quality of life for some individuals.
Hypoglycemia
As a medication that lowers the person's blood sugar level, Ozempic can increase the risk of hypoglycemia. This is especially concerning in non-diabetic individuals who may not be accustomed to monitoring their blood sugar levels. This can lead to health issues related to chronic low blood sugar, including dizziness, headaches, shaking, heart palpitations, and more.
Pancreatitis
There have been reports linking Ozempic use to pancreatitis, a potentially serious inflammation of the pancreas that requires medical attention.
Thyroid Tumors
Studies have suggested a potential risk of thyroid tumors and thyroid cancer associated with the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic, although further research is needed to fully understand this risk.
Connection to Eating Disorders
One of the most significant concerns surrounding the off-label use of Ozempic for weight loss is its potential connection to eating disorders. Individuals may develop unhealthy relationships with food, body image issues, and disordered eating patterns while using Ozempic for weight loss purposes.
Mental health
Possible mental health side effects, including suicidal ideation, have been reported.
Ultimately, doctors warn that the long-term impact of taking Ozempic remains unknown—making it even more dangerous to take right now without any medical need.
Address Your Disordered Eating
If you’re feeling tempted to take Ozempic for weight loss as a non-diabetic, I want you first to recognize your underlying disordered eating beliefs. In the world we live in today, it’s nearly impossible to escape diet culture—and what it tells you your body should look like.
Even more concerning is how the Western medical establishment treats weight and “obesity”—even if you think nothing is wrong with the size of your body, your doctor may tell you something different.
The problem is that losing weight won’t fix those negative beliefs about your body. Then, if you ever get off Ozempic, you’ll likely experience weight gain, putting you right back where you started. If this sounds familiar, there are steps you can take to work on these negative body and food beliefs to recognize that your body is not the problem—diet culture is.
Recognize the Problem
Acknowledge that there is a problem with your eating habits or relationship with food. Understand that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Seek Professional Help
Reach out to eating-disorder-informed providers like our team at Columbus Park, who specialize in treating this specific disorder. They can provide guidance, support, and treatment options tailored to your specific needs.
Educate Yourself
Learn about eating disorders, their causes, symptoms, and potential consequences. Understanding the underlying factors contributing to your disordered eating behaviors can help you make informed decisions and work toward recovery.
Develop a Support System
Surround yourself with supportive friends, family members, or support groups who understand your struggles and can provide encouragement and empathy during difficult times. Sharing your experiences with others who can relate, like those in an eating disorder support group, can be incredibly beneficial.
Address Underlying Issues
Explore the underlying emotional, psychological, or environmental factors contributing to your disordered eating behaviors. Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), family-based therapy (FBT) IFS, and others can help you identify and address these underlying issues.
Ozempic for Weight Loss as a Non-Diabetic: Just Don’t Do It
Those susceptible to or currently experiencing disordered eating are particularly vulnerable to abusing drugs like Ozempic. Taking off-label weight loss medications as a non-diabetic individual is a sign of disordered eating and can lead to severe health issues down the line.
We believe that full recovery is possible for anyone with an eating disorder. It is extremely important to seek support if you or someone you love is struggling. Book a free phone consultation to learn more about our clinical services and commitment to providing an inclusive environment for all. Ozempic is not your only option. Just say no—we can help you do that.
