Ozempic for Weight Loss: Dr. Daniel Gould Featured in Forbes Health

Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Gould, MD, PhD was featured in Forbes Health discussing the growing use of Ozempic and other GLP-1 medications for weight loss, including how the drug works and important safety considerations for patients.

Ozempic contains semaglutide, a medication originally approved by the FDA to help manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate appetite, blood sugar, and digestion.

According to Dr. Gould, one of the most notable effects of these medications is appetite suppression, which often leads to significant weight loss for some patients.

However, Ozempic is not currently FDA-approved specifically for weight loss, though physicians sometimes prescribe it off-label for that purpose. A related medication, Wegovy, contains the same active ingredient (semaglutide) and is FDA-approved to treat obesity and overweight patients with certain medical conditions.

The article also outlines important safety considerations for patients interested in GLP-1 medications.

Potential Side Effects of Ozempic

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Constipation
• Stomach discomfort
• Vomiting
• Headaches or dizziness

Dr. Gould also notes that rapid weight loss can sometimes lead to visible changes in the face or body, including loss of fat and muscle that may affect skin tightness and facial volume.

Who Should Avoid Ozempic

Ozempic may not be appropriate for everyone. Dr. Gould advises that the medication should not be used casually for weight loss or by individuals with certain medical conditions, including:

• Allergies to semaglutide
• Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)
• A personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer

Because of potential risks and side effects, individuals considering Ozempic should consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine whether the medication is appropriate for their health history and goals.