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Health & Wellness

How Ozempic® Works for Diabetes and Weight Loss?

Discover the science behind Ozempic®, its benefits for diabetes management, and why it’s becoming a game-changer in weight loss treatment.

Written by

Dr. Marcus Cole, MD

12 min read

Medically reviewed by

Elaine Gladstone

Table of Contents

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If you’ve been hearing about Ozempic® and wondering how it supports diabetes management and weight loss, you’re not alone. Ozempic®, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist, mimics a natural hormone in the body.

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Key Timeline

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2017: FDA approved Ozempic® for type 2 diabetes management

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Clinical trials: Showed significant weight loss benefits

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Current: Used off-label for weight management under medical supervision.

In this blog, you’ll learn how Ozempic® works, why GLP-1 medications are so effective, the key benefits and possible side effects, and how Ongo Weight Loss can help you reach your health goals safely and sustainably.

What is Ozempic®?

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FDA Approved

Renowned prescription medication approved by the FDA for type 2 diabetes management since 2017.

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Active Ingredient

Contains semaglutide, manufactured and marketed by Novo Nordisk with proven effectiveness.

Dosage Information

Ozempic® is a once-weekly injection, available in 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg doses, and it works best when paired with healthy eating and regular exercise.

What’s more interesting is, research shows that Ozempic® doesn’t just help with diabetes management, but also lowers the risk of major cardiovascular events such as stroke or death in adults with type 2 diabetes who are suffering from heart disease.

Important :
Prescriptions for GLP-1 medications are issued only after an online or in-person evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider, in compliance with all federal telehealth and prescribing standards.

How Ozempic® Works in Diabetes Management

Diabetes management is essential for your body, as complications can lead to kidney failure and nerve damage. Think of Ozempic® as giving your body a little extra support. It works in 3 ways to lower blood sugar levels.

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Increases Insulin Production

Ozempic® helps your pancreas release more insulin when blood sugar levels rise. This keeps your glucose levels steady and supports overall blood sugar control.

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Reduces Liver Sugar Production

One of the ways Ozempic® works is by guiding your liver to slow down excess sugar production. This helps keep your blood sugar levels more stable and reduces the spikes that can occur after meals.

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Slows Gastric Emptying

Slowing the gastric emptying process helps you feel fuller for longer and keeps blood sugar levels more stable. This is reflected by lower hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels.

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In Summary

Ozempic® regulates insulin, reduces liver sugar production, and slows digestion for better blood sugar balance.

Is Ozempic® a Weight Loss Medication?

The Honest Answer

No, Ozempic® isn’t officially FDA-approved for weight loss. However, weight loss is a common side effect when it’s used to manage diabetes.

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Expert Opinion

According to Dr. A. Enrique Caballero, MD (Faculty Director of International Innovation Programs, Harvard Medical School), it can help people lose significant weight when combined with healthy lifestyle changes, whether or not they have type 2 diabetes.

Clinical Study Results

15%
Average weight loss with semaglutide + lifestyle changes

2%
Weight loss with lifestyle changes alone

*Based on 2023 clinical study data

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Important Notice

Ozempic® isn’t FDA-approved for weight loss, but under doctor supervision, it may support gradual and safe weight reduction through off-label prescription.

Common & Serious Side Effects of Ozempic®

While Ozempic® is a proven medication for diabetes management, there are some side effects to be aware of. Everyone’s body responds differently, so having a conversation with your doctor is essential.

Common and serious side effects of ozempic

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Common Side Effects

These side effects are easily manageable:

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Nausea

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Vomiting

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Diarrhea

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Constipation

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Abdominal discomfort

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Injection site reactions

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Serious Side Effects

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

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Serious allergic reactions

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Hypoglycemia

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Diabetic eye damage risks

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Thyroid tumors

If you experience any serious symptoms, contact your doctor immediately for proper medical evaluation and guidance.

Potential Benefits of Ozempic®

Several studies are underway to explore the potential benefits of Ozempic® beyond diabetes, weight management, and heart health.

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Liver Health

GLP-1 drugs may help reduce liver fat and inflammation in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a condition linked to obesity and insulin resistance.

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Alcohol Use Disorder

Some preclinical studies showed that GLP-1 drugs could serve potential benefits in alcohol use disorder (AUD) patients with obesity or higher body weight.

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Brain Protection

Researchers are studying whether these medications might also help protect your brain and lower the risk of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.

Note:
These findings are still under clinical investigation, and any use beyond FDA-approved indications should always be discussed with your licensed provider.

Conclusion

Remember, Ozempic® isn’t a quick fix. It works best when combined with healthy habits and regular medical supervision. A licensed doctor can guide you through a safe and effective treatment plan for lasting weight loss.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Talk to a licensed Ongo Weight Loss provider today to see if a GLP-1 treatment like Ozempic® is right for you. Every plan is personalized, HIPAA-secure, and doctor-supervised for safe, sustainable results.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Does Ozempic® Help With Weight Loss?

Ozempic®, originally approved for managing blood sugar in type 2 diabetes, is sometimes used off-label for weight loss. It works by reducing appetite, slowing stomach emptying, and boosting insulin response, helping you feel fuller, eat less, and support steady, healthy weight loss.

How Are GLP-1 Injections Administered?

They are usually administered under your skin in the abdomen, thigh, or arms once a week using a prefilled pen, which makes the process simple and convenient.

How Can I Get a GLP-1 Prescription?

You can get a GLP-1 prescription from a licensed doctor at Ongo Weight Loss through a simple and secure virtual evaluation. During the consultation, our doctors review your medical history, discuss your health goals, and determine the best treatment plan for you.

What is GLP-1 Peptide for Weight Loss?

GLP-1 peptide for weight loss is a medication that mimics a natural hormone in your body to help control appetite, slow digestion, and regulate blood sugar. This helps you feel fuller longer, eat less, and lose weight more effectively.

What Is the Average Weight Loss on Ozempic®?

In clinical studies with type 2 diabetes patients, weekly Ozempic led to weight reductions generally ranging from 5 to 6.5 kg (11–14 lbs) over 7 to 12 months. Results vary by dose, individual, and lifestyle factors. It is FDA-approved for diabetes, though some use it off-label for weight loss.

Is Ozempic® Safe for Weight Loss?

Ozempic® can support weight loss, but it is FDA-approved for diabetes, not obesity. Off-label use may be considered under medical supervision. Safety depends on your health, dosage, and possible side effects, so consult a doctor first.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes and should not replace medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider before starting any new medication or treatment plan.

References

1. Drugs.com. Wegovy® (semaglutide) FDA approval history. Drugs.com. Updated August 31, 2025.https://www.drugs.com/history/wegovy.html

2. Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Calanna S, et al. Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity. N Engl J Med. 2021;384(11):989-1002. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2032183

3. Semaglutide (Wegovy®): CADTH Reimbursement Review: Therapeutic area: Weight management [Internet]. Ottawa (ON): Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health; 2022 Dec. Clinical Review. Available from:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK601688/

4. Wadden TA, Chao AM, Moore M, et al. The Role of Lifestyle Modification with Second-Generation Anti-obesity Medications: Comparisons, Questions, and Clinical Opportunities. Curr Obes Rep. 2023;12(4):453-473. doi:10.1007/s13679-023-00534-z

5. Wegovy®. “Patient Experiences.” Novo Nordisk.https://www.wegovy.com/about-wegovy/wegovy-patient-experiences.html

Post Author

DR Marcus Cole

Medical Writer & Weight-Loss Specialist

Ready to Start Your Weight loss Journey?

Ongo Weight Loss partners with you for safe, science-backed results using Ozempic and GLP-1 therapy.

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Personalized dosing from 0.25 mg to 1 mg

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Expert medical support at every step

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Real results average 12–15% weight loss

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