Ozempic has gone viral when it comes to weight loss conversations across the globe. The popularity of this type 2 diabetes injectable can be traced to numerous Hollywood celebrities talking about how it suppresses appetite and has yielded a variety of results. Dr Manoj Kutteri, medical director and CEO of Atmantan Wellness Centre, weighs in on the hidden dangers associated with relying solely on drugs like Ozempic for weight loss, potential side effects, long-term health implications, and why such approaches may not be sustainable in the pursuit of overall well-being.

What is Ozempic, and how does it work in the context of weight loss?
Kutteri: Ozempic is the brand name of a medication known as semaglutide, which is used to treat Type 2 Diabetes and off late, it has also been promoted to address obesity. Ozempic works by mimicking the incretin hormones that the body naturally produces to help control blood sugar and weight gain. Specifically, it enhances the release of insulin and decreases the amount of the hormone glucagon, which elevates blood sugar. Though it is not meant to be a direct recommendation for weight loss, the main adverse impact of Ozempic has been associated with weight loss. Less food may be ingested because the medicine may cause a decrease in appetite and a feeling of fullness. It's important to keep in mind that everyone may experience distinct weight loss advantages.