Ozempic - Just for diabetics or can everyone get it?

Question

Is Ozempic for people with diabetes who want to lose weight? Can it be used off-label just for weight loss?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Semaglutide/Ozempic can be used to treat Type 2 diabetes.  It has also shown and can be prescribed to help with weight loss.  Often times if the medication is being used for weight loss it is not covered by prescription drug plans and must be paid for out of pocket.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Ozempic (semaglutide) was initially approved by the FDA for the management of type 2 diabetes. The FDA expanded the approval of semaglutide (under the brand name Wegovy) for chronic weight management in adults who are either obese or overweight with at least one weight-related condition (such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol), in addition to a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity. 
This means that semaglutide can be used in non-diabetic patients for weight loss, but it is not intended to be used for cosmetic weight loss in individuals without any associated health risks. It's also important to note that it's not a substitute for healthy lifestyle changes. Diet, exercise, and other lifestyle factors continue to play an essential role in weight management.
Remember that all medications, including Ozempic, have potential risks and side effects. It's crucial to discuss these, along with your personal health history and goals, with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication. They can provide guidance on whether a medication like Ozempic might be appropriate and beneficial for you.

Brandon Richland, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Ozempic is technically written for diabetics. Wegovy, which is the same medication as Ozempic, is used more for weight loss. However, they are the same medication but prescribing guidelines might differ slightly. If you are interested in losing weight, I recommend scheduling an appointment with your practitioner or a provider who specializes in prescribing weight loss medication to see if you are a good candidate.

Howard Pyo, DO · Answer

Ozempic is primarily intended to assist control blood sugar levels and encourage weight loss in individuals with Type 2 diabetes. While certain doctors may prescribe it off-label to non-diabetic individuals in order to help them lose weight, it's essential to talk to your healthcare provider about this to be sure it's safe and appropriate for your personal situation.

Beauty Bar - Sandy Springs · Answer

In June 2021, the FDA approved semiglutide injections for chronic weight management in adults with obesity. Semiglutide is also often prescribed to type 2 diabetics to manage weight and high blood sugar.

Ozempic - Just for diabetics or can everyone get it?

Answers (10)

Answer: Ozempic is primarily intended to assist control blood sugar levels

Answer: Ozempic is primarily intended to assist control blood sugar levels

Answer: Ozempic for weight loss

Answer: Ozempic for weight loss

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Semaglutide

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Ozempic - Just for diabetics or can everyone get it?

Answers (10)

Answer: Ozempic is primarily intended to assist control blood sugar levels

Answer: Ozempic is primarily intended to assist control blood sugar levels

Answer: Ozempic for weight loss

Answer: Ozempic for weight loss

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Semaglutide

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.