“Ozempic face” is a term used to describe certain changes in the face that can happen when using the medication Ozempic (semaglutide). This medication is typically prescribed to help people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels, but it has also become popular for weight loss. One side effect of Ozempic can be a change in the appearance of the face, such as saggi`ng skin or a more aged look. Some people also use facial fillers or make lifestyle changes to treat these effects.

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is made by Novo Nordisk and is commonly prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes. It comes in an injectable pen and is taken once a week. Many people also use Ozempic off-label (without a prescription) for weight loss, which has led to high demand and limited availability in some areas.

How Does Ozempic Affect the Face?

Ozempic works by helping the body release insulin to control blood sugar levels. It also helps people feel full for longer and slows down digestion, which leads to weight loss. However, rapid weight loss can sometimes cause changes in the face.

Facial fat, which cushions the skin, can decrease when someone loses weight quickly. This can make the skin loose, saggy, or cause it to develop more wrinkles. As a result, people who lose weight quickly with Ozempic might notice their face looking more hollow or aged.

Other Side Effects of Ozempic

While Ozempic can be effective for controlling blood sugar and helping with weight loss, it can have side effects. These include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Stomach pain
• Fatigue

In rare cases, more serious issues can occur, like changes in vision, kidney problems, or even an increased risk of thyroid cancer. If you have serious side effects, contact your doctor right away.

Can You Prevent “Ozempic Face”?

If you are using Ozempic under a doctor’s supervision, you may not be able to avoid the changes to your face caused by rapid weight loss. However, if you are concerned about these effects, your doctor might suggest:

• Reducing the dosage of Ozempic
• Trying a different medication
• Drinking plenty of water (1-2 liters per day)
• Eating a diet with more protein to maintain muscle
• Using dermatological fillers to smooth out the skin
• Making lifestyle changes to maintain a healthy weight

If you decide to stop taking Ozempic, it can take about five weeks for the medication to fully leave your system.

What Happens When You Stop Taking Ozempic?

Research has shown that stopping Ozempic might cause weight to be regained. People may also experience increased cravings and blood sugar spikes after they stop the medication. If you stop taking Ozempic, you may notice:

• More frequent cravings
• Fewer side effects
• Blood sugar levels increasing

When to Contact Your Doctor

If you experience any serious side effects while using Ozempic, it’s important to contact your doctor. Monitor your symptoms and discuss them with your healthcare provider. Reach out for medical assistance if you encounter any of the following:

• Difficulty swallowing
• A lump or pain in the neck
• Shortness of breath or wheezing
• A hoarse voice that gets worse over time

Frequently Asked Questions About Ozempic

Does Ozempic change your face?
Yes, Ozempic can cause rapid weight loss, which can lead to a noticeable change in the face, such as a hollow or gaunt appearance.

What does “Ozempic face” look like?
It can include more wrinkles, loose or sagging skin, and a hollow appearance in the cheeks.

Does Ozempic age your skin?
The rapid weight loss caused by Ozempic can affect the skin’s elasticity, which may make wrinkles or lines more noticeable.

Summary

Ozempic is primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes, but it is also used off-label for weight loss. While it can help people lose weight, it can also cause side effects like “Ozempic face,” which is a change in the appearance of the face due to the loss of facial fat. If you experience these or other side effects, consult with your doctor. They can help you find ways to manage them and decide whether to continue using the medication.

Curious about diabetes medications being used for weight loss? Before jumping into the buzz surrounding Wegovy and Ozempic, here are eight important considerations about these semaglutide injections.

Why Are Wegovy and Ozempic So Popular?

References to these drugs have been popping up everywhere, from celebrity mentions to social media trends. Jimmy Kimmel joked about Ozempic during his Oscars monologue, and even Elon Musk credited Wegovy for his weight loss. But are these drugs the right choice for you?

Before deciding, it’s crucial to understand the details behind Wegovy and Ozempic. While these medications have been effective for some, there are significant factors to evaluate.

Eight Reasons to Be Cautious About Wegovy and Ozempic

1. Different Approvals for Different Needs

• Ozempic: Approved for managing Type 2 diabetes.
• Wegovy: Approved for individuals with obesity or those who are overweight and have related health conditions.

2. Long-Term Commitment
Losing weight with these drugs often requires continued use to maintain results. Discontinuing them usually leads to rapid weight regain.

3. Cost Barriers
Without insurance coverage, the annual expense can exceed $15,000. Most insurance plans don’t cover these medications for weight loss unless tied to diabetes management.

4. Supply Issues
High demand for Wegovy and Ozempic has led to shortages, complicating access for patients who truly need them.

5. Potential Side Effects

Common gastrointestinal side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases, complications like retinopathy (a diabetes-related eye condition) may arise.

6. Lifestyle Changes Are Still Necessary
While these drugs reduce appetite, success also depends on cutting back on sugary and high-fat foods and incorporating exercise.

7. Concerns About Appearance
Some users report experiencing “Ozempic face” or “Wegovy face,” where rapid weight loss results in a gaunt or aged look due to facial fat loss.

8. Health Risks and Contraindications

• People with a history of retinopathy, pancreatitis, or medullary thyroid cancer should avoid these drugs.
• Regular check-ups with specialists are necessary to monitor health.

Understanding Wegovy and Ozempic

Are They the Same?

Yes, both are versions of semaglutide but are prescribed for different purposes. Ozempic is for Type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy targets obesity or weight-related conditions.

How Do They Work?

Both drugs mimic the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), suppressing appetite and slowing stomach emptying to reduce food intake.

Who Qualifies?

• Wegovy: Adults and teens (12+ years) with a BMI of 30+ or a BMI of 27+ with related health risks like high blood pressure or diabetes.
• Ozempic: Approved solely for individuals with Type 2 diabetes.

Benefits and Risks

Why Are Weight Loss Drugs a Breakthrough?

Over 70% of U.S. adults are overweight or obese, increasing risks of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and certain cancers. Losing even 5–10% of body weight can significantly improve cardiovascular health.

Common Side Effects of Wegovy

Gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, bloating, and constipation, is most prevalent. Less common but severe risks include retinopathy and pancreatitis.

Financial and Equity Challenges

The high cost of these drugs limits accessibility for many. Without insurance, they remain unaffordable for most, raising concerns about health equity.

Are These Drugs Right for You?

Who Should Use Wegovy?

People with obesity or a BMI of 27+ with health conditions qualify for Wegovy. Those outside these parameters may use it “off-label,” but insurance may not cover such prescriptions.

What About Ozempic?

Ozempic is designed for diabetes management. Individuals using it purely for weight loss are not adhering to its intended use.

Addressing Needle Phobia

Both Wegovy and Ozempic are injectables taken once a week. For those uncomfortable with injections, a daily oral version called Rybelsus is available for diabetes patients.

Key Health Considerations

Risks for Eye Health

Individuals with existing retinopathy or poorly managed diabetes should consult an eye doctor before starting these medications, as semaglutide can exacerbate the condition.

Other Rare Risks

Pancreatitis and contraindications for thyroid cancer make thorough medical evaluations essential.

Stopping the Drugs

No tapering is needed, but stopping use often leads to weight regain and worsened diabetes symptoms.

The Bigger Picture

Shifting Perspectives on Obesity

For decades, obesity was seen as a failure of willpower, but recent research highlights genetic and physiological factors. Drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic may represent a turning point in managing a condition once misunderstood.

Importance of Lifestyle Changes

While these medications can be transformative, they are not a substitute for a balanced diet and regular exercise. A long-term commitment to healthy habits remains essential.

Making an Informed Decision

Before starting Wegovy or Ozempic, consult healthcare providers, including primary care doctors, endocrinologists, and eye specialists, to ensure safe and effective use. While these drugs can deliver remarkable results, they come with responsibilities and potential risks that demand careful consideration.

For those seeking more affordable options, consider accessing Wegovy and Ozempic through pharmacy-affiliated services like Better You Rx, which provides cost-effective alternatives from Canada. Balancing affordability and expert guidance can make these groundbreaking medications accessible to more individuals in need.