Ozempic to launch in India markets soon: How it works and is it safe for diabetes and weight loss

Ozempic, a once-weekly injection, regulates blood sugar and aids weight loss in type 2 diabetes patients. (Image: AFP)

Ozempic has caught the eye of people worldwide for its ability to help with weight loss. The drug, which goes by the generic name semaglutide, is a shot you take once a week and has been approved by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). This medication is set to enter the Indian market and play a big role for patients who want to keep their blood sugar in check and also aim to reach a healthier weight.

What exactly is Ozempic?

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a drug utilized to assist people with type 2 diabetes to maintain their blood sugar levels evenly. It maintains glucose levels throughout the day by improving the body’s insulin response. Improving blood glucose levels is only one function of Ozempic. It has also gained global popularity as a weight loss aid, especially for people who are overweight or obese. Another benefit of this diabetes drug is the ease of adherence to treatment regimens as it comes as a weekly injection in comparison to the daily medications that are required for other diabetes medications.

Also Read: Ozempic weight loss might cost you muscle strength, says new study

What are the functions of Ozempic?

Ozempic is classified as a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It is designed to mimic the actions of the diabetes medications that are naturally produced in the body, the gut hormones GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) after a meal. These hormones help to regulate blood glucose levels by stimulating the pancreas to release insulin and by attenuating glucagon (which triggers the liver to release glucose into the blood), thereby lowering blood glucose levels.

Besides the control of blood glucose levels, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and thereby Ozempic, are also utilized for weight control. Ozempic can help to reduce food cravings and leftover satisfaction by signalling to the brain that the body is full and is able to maintain blood glucose levels during this time. This makes it particularly effective for managing diabetes as well as helping with gradual weight loss.

Is Ozempic safe and effective?

Research shows Ozempic can cut body weight by 15–20%, which boosts metabolic health. Even dropping 5–10% of weight can lower blood pressure, cut the chance of fatty liver disease, and reduce the risk of sleep apnea.

But Ozempic, like other drugs, has possible downsides. People often feel sick, throw up, get constipated, have diarrhoea, or feel stomach pain. In rare cases, it can cause serious problems like pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, kidney damage, and thyroid troubles. It is because of these risks, you need to take Ozempic with a doctor's care and have regular check-ups to make sure it's safe and working well.

Ozempic offers a hopeful choice for people with type 2 diabetes helping to control blood sugar and manage weight. This drug might play a key role for Indian patients dealing with growing obesity and diabetes numbers. However, it works best when combined with a doctor's advice nutritious eating, and changes in daily habits.

Also Read: Ozempic side effect: Male users reveal change to their genitals after injection

FAQs on Ozempic Weight Loss and Safety

1. How does Ozempic aid in weight loss?
Ozempic reduces food cravings and signals to the brain that the body is full, promoting gradual weight loss.

2. What are the common side effects of Ozempic?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea, and stomach pain.

3. Are there any serious risks associated with Ozempic?
In rare cases, Ozempic can cause serious issues such as pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, kidney damage, and thyroid troubles.

4. How much weight can one expect to lose with Ozempic?
Research shows Ozempic can help reduce body weight by 15–20%.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.