In 2022, when Kim Kardashian graced the Met Gala in the iconic dress worn by Marilyn Monroe in 1962, all eyes were on more than just the historical fashion choice. The 42-year-old celebrity stunned onlookers not only with the dress but also with a dramatic weight loss of 16 pounds in three weeks. The buzz surrounding her transformation sparked rumors of Ozempic, a prescription drug for type II diabetes, leading to a TikTok storm and a widespread interest in the supposed ‘miracle’ weight-loss drug.
Ozempic quickly became a go-to solution for shedding extra pounds, embraced by various celebrities seeking a quick fix. However, the use of this injectable medication has faced increasing scrutiny recently due to its association with notable weight loss stories. Jimmy Kimmel even made a humorous reference to Ozempic during the 95th Academy Awards, playfully pondering if it was right for him.
The active ingredient in Ozempic, semaglutide, has gained immense popularity among celebrities. Tech mogul Elon Musk openly credited semaglutide, also known as Wegovy, for his weight loss, sharing his regimen of “Fasting + Ozempic/Wegovy + no tasty food near me” on social media.
The Kardashian-Jenners have also become synonymous with the Ozempic trend, with fans speculating about Kris Jenner and Kylie Jenner’s potential use of the drug. Oprah Winfrey hinted at her experience with weight-loss medication, expressing relief at the existence of a medically approved prescription for managing weight.
Most recently, Khloé Kardashian’s 40th birthday photos reignited Ozempic rumors, as she showcased a noticeably slimmer figure in a strappy silver dress. However, as the Ozempic craze gains momentum, medical professionals are sounding a warning about the potential risks associated with the drug.
Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, can lead to adverse effects such as nausea, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, heartburn, lightheadedness, and poor appetite. Serious side effects include pancreatitis, allergic reactions, kidney issues, and rare yet severe complications like severe gastroparesis (stomach paralysis). Furthermore, the drug carries an FDA boxed warning regarding thyroid C-cell tumors, medullary thyroid carcinoma, and multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Originally prescribed for type II diabetes, Ozempic’s mechanism involves semaglutide mimicking glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which are released in response to eating. While the drug may offer weight-loss benefits, its potential risks and side effects emphasize the need for caution and thorough consideration before opting for a supposed magic bullet against obesity.
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