What is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a brand-name GLP-1 receptor agonist medication (semaglutide). Ozempic mimics the effects of the hormone GLP-1, a naturally occurring hormone, to help regulate blood sugar and promote weight loss. GLP-1 drugs, also called GLP-1 agonists, are shortened names for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists. GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic the GLP-1 hormone that is naturally released in the gastrointestinal tract in response to eating.
When you eat, your digestive system breaks down carbohydrates into simple sugars that travel through your bloodstream. The GLP-1 hormone triggers the release of insulin from your pancreas. The insulin helps deliver glucose (sugar) out of the bloodstream and into your cells, where it can be used for nourishment and energy.
In people with type 2 diabetes, the body’s cells are resistant to the effects of insulin, which means the body can’t produce enough insulin. GLP-1 agonists stimulate the pancreas to release insulin and suppress the release of another hormone called glucagon, both of which help control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
What Is Ozempic Used For?
Ozempic is a brand of GLP-1 receptor agonist medication that is used for weight loss and to treat type 2 diabetes. The dosing is higher for weight loss than it is for type 2 diabetes.
Are There Other Brands Of GLP-1 Drugs?
Yes, there are several other brands of GLP-1 drugs. Most of them are administered by injection, but there are some in pill form as well. But beware, there are inexpensive brands that are not FDA approved, and could put your health at serious risk. (Center for Drug Evaluation and Research)
Is Ozempic FDA Approved?
Yes, Ozempic is FDA approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, and not for weight loss. There is another semaglutide made by the same company called Wegovy, which is FDA approved for weight loss.
Ozempic does work well for weight loss, but there are drawbacks. It is likely that the weight will return after use is discontinued. And health experts say it is not advisable to use Ozempic unless you actually have type 2 diabetes.
“Ozempic Face” As A Side Effect Of GLP-1 Drugs
The term “Ozempic face” as a side effect of GLP-1 drugs, is a bit misleading because this can be a side effect of any GLP-1 drug or any other cause of rapid weight loss.
The rapid loss of fat in the face can cause:
- a hollowed look to the face
- changes in the size of the lips, cheeks, and chin
- wrinkles on the face
- sunken eyes
- sagging jowls around the jaw and neck.
References
UC Davis Health. (2025, August 23). Ozempic for weight loss: Does it work, and what do experts recommend?: Cultivating health. health. https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/cultivating-health/ozempic-for-weight-loss-does-it-work-and-what-do-experts-recommend/2023/07
Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (n.d.). FDA’s concerns with unapproved GLP-1 drugs used for weight loss. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/fdas-concerns-unapproved-glp-1-drugs-used-weight-loss
