The rising curiosity about weight loss drugs has launched Ozempic into a headline-grabbing topic, especially after celebrities like Bollywood director Karan Johar stirred rumours concerning its use amid noticeable transformations. This injectable drug was primarily designed for managing type 2 diabetes but has now gained attention for its potential weight reduction effects, sparking both fascination and debate.
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide, a medication originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels, slows gastric emptying and promotes satiety. In recent years, semaglutide has gained significant attention for its off-label use in weight loss.
In other words, it is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist approved by the FDA for glycaemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes and mimics the hormone GLP-1, enhancing insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon release and slowing gastric emptying. This results in reduced appetite and calorie intake.
Celebrity spotlight: Karan Johar’s transformation and public speculation
Karan Johar’s striking weight loss led to rumours suggesting the use of Ozempic, a claim he addressed with humour on Twinkle Khanna’s show ‘Two Much,’ denying any chemical substances and attributing his transformation to disciplined lifestyle changes. This incident spotlights the drug’s rising profile beyond clinical settings, influencing public perceptions on weight management.
Medications like Ozempic are designed for individuals with specific health conditions like type 2 diabetes or obesity. While they do support weight loss, they aren’t magic bullets. Long-term success requires pairing them with healthy lifestyle changes. Also, side effects like nausea and muscle loss are concerns.Check her post here
In the particular episode of the show ‘Two Much’, which aired this week, Twinkle told Karan that there is a lot of food to feed him because he keeps complaining that they do not have a great enough spread for him. Karan added, “But if you read anything online, they think I don’t eat because I am on chemical substances, like Ozempic.”Twinkle hilariously added, “Beta, itna injection mat liya kar! Itna dubla ho gaya hai. Mummy kya bolegi (Son, stop taking so many injections! How thin you have become! What will your mom say)?” Karan said, “Mummy bechari kuch nahi bolti aajkal (My mother does not utter a word nowadays).”Since 2024, Karan has been grabbing attention on social media for his sudden weight loss and physique transformation. However, the filmmaker clarified time and again that the drastic results were all due to his healthy weight loss and diet choices even as many speculated that he was on weight loss drugs.The buzz around Ozempic exemplifies modern society’s fascination with quick-fix weight loss solutions that are often propelled by celebrity influence and social media narratives. As Karan Johar noted with his witty remarks, misunderstandings and myths flourish, underscoring the importance of informed and evidence-based conversations about health.
How effective is it for weight loss?
Clinical studies have demonstrated that semaglutide can lead to substantial weight loss. For instance, a landmark 2021 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reported that semaglutide significantly reduces body weight in obese patients. Participants using semaglutide experienced an average body weight reduction of 14.9% over 68 weeks, compared to just 2.4% in the placebo group. The study emphasized the need for medical supervision, given the drug’s profile and side effects.
Ozempic 101: A Comprehensive Guide to Semaglutide’s Role in Weight Loss and Health
A 2022 review in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism highlighted Ozempic’s dual benefit in improving glycaemic control while promoting weight loss, marking it as an effective intervention particularly for individuals with obesity-related comorbidities. The researchers noted, “Semaglutide offers an unprecedented approach to obesity management by targeting key metabolic pathways, but lifestyle modifications remain essential for sustained benefits.”Further, a 2024 research published in Nature Medicine found that 12.0% of patients achieved a body mass index (BMI) under 25 kg/m² after one year of semaglutide treatment, compared to only 1.2% in the placebo group
Potential side effects
While semaglutide is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects, particularly gastrointestinal issues. A 2023 study published in JAMA identified an increased risk of gastrointestinal adverse events, including pancreatitis, gallbladder disease and bowel obstruction, among users of GLP-1 agonistsAdditionally, a 2024 study in JAMA Ophthalmology linked semaglutide to a rare eye condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), which can lead to sudden vision loss. However, the absolute risk remains low, with only 32 cases reported among over 60,000 individuals in the studySafety concerns persist as common side effects reported in a 2021 Diabetes Care study include nausea, vomiting and gastrointestinal discomfort, with warnings against unsupervised use due to potential risks.From a lifestyle perspective, Ozempic is not a magic bullet. Experts stress it should complement, not replace, sustainable habits like mindful eating, regular physical activity and psychological well-being. The drug’s high cost and requirement for ongoing injections also necessitate careful consideration.
Broader health implications
Beyond weight loss, semaglutide has shown promise in other health areas. Some studies suggest that GLP-1 receptor agonists, including semaglutide, may reduce the risk of developing dementia by up to 45%, in addition to helping manage diabetes and promote weight loss Moreover, a 2024 research from the University of North Carolina, published in JAMA Psychiatry in 2024, indicated that semaglutide could significantly reduce alcohol consumption and cravings in individuals with alcohol use disorder, highlighting its potential in treating addiction.
Bottom line
While semaglutide offers significant benefits for weight loss and other health conditions, it is essential to approach its use with caution. Consulting with a healthcare provider is crucial to determine if semaglutide is appropriate for your individual health needs and to monitor for potential side effects. As research continues, semaglutide may become a valuable tool in managing weight and associated health conditions but its use should be part of a comprehensive healthcare plan.Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment.