Ozempic Side Effects: How does the weight loss drug Ozempic work, for whom can it be dangerous?

News Topical, Digital Desk : Ozempic, a weight loss medication, is currently being widely discussed. This injectable medication was originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, but its side effect is weight loss. Therefore, people are using it for weight loss. Launched in India in December 2025, how does this medication work and for whom could it be dangerous? Let's find out.

What is Ozempic and how does it work?

Ozempic's original name is Semaglutide. It mimics the GLP-1 hormone. In fact, GLP-1 is released in the body after eating. It increases insulin, lowers blood sugar, and suppresses appetite. According to Dr. Anil Gomber, Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine and Diabetologist at Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, Ozempic is a good medication for type 2 diabetes and weight management, but it also has GI side effects that become more pronounced with increasing dosage. However, it should not be taken without consulting a doctor. 

How does Ozempic work?

• It delays the emptying of the stomach, hence there is less hunger.
• Sends signals to the brain that the stomach is full.
• Produces more insulin and reduces glucagon hormone.
• This controls blood sugar and reduces weight.

How much does this injection cost?

According to media reports, this injection can lead to up to 15% weight loss in a year, but two-thirds of the weight is regained upon discontinuation. This injection is administered weekly. In India, the cost ranges from 10,000 to 20,000 rupees per month. The latest 2025 study found that this injection can increase the risk of pancreatitis by 146%. There's also a risk of developing the rare eye disease NAION. Weight regain occurs upon discontinuation. 

What are the benefits of getting this injection?

• Good blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes.
• Weight loss, especially in obese patients.
• Reduced risk of heart disease.
• Some studies also show a reduced risk of Alzheimer's and dementia.

What are the dangers?

• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Gallbladder problems such as stones
• Increased risk of thyroid tumors or cancer (seen in rats, not confirmed in humans)
• Vision loss (an eye condition called NAION).
• kidney problem
• Weakening of the stomach muscles (gastroparesis)

Dangerous for whom?

• Those with a family history of thyroid cancer.
• Those with medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN 2 syndrome.
• Past history of pancreatitis
• Serious kidney or liver problems.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• Those with serious gall bladder or stomach disease.

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