Struggling to lose or keep off weight? Here’s the truth about Ozempic

—  Struggling to lose weight? Ozempic (semaglutide) is surging

—  It cuts appetite and can trigger rapid weight loss

—  Many regain weight after stopping the drug

—  Experts warn it’s not a lasting fix

Ozempic is surging among people struggling to lose or keep off weight. But experts warn the popular weight-loss drug is not a quick or lasting fix.

Also read: Ozempic: ‘a life-long commitment, the moment you stop, you will regain that weight’ – doctor

Fitness and wellness coach Juanita Khumalo says the growing demand for Ozempic reflects how many people are searching for effective ways to lose weight and control appetite.

What Ozempic does in the body

Ozempic works by changing how your body handles hunger and fullness.

It is a prescription medication originally developed for type 2 diabetes.

Its active ingredient mimics a natural hormone that affects appetite and digestion.

“It slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach, which means you feel fuller for longer,” Khumalo explained.

It also reduces hunger signals and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

For many overweight people, that can mean eating less without constant cravings, one of the main reasons Ozempic has become so popular.

Not just for diabetes anymore

Although designed for diabetes, Ozempic is increasingly prescribed for obesity.

Khumalo says that it is not necessarily unsafe if used correctly.

“It’s not really unhealthy… but it needs to be integrated into your lifestyle,” she said.

She stressed that Ozempic should support healthy habits, not replace them.

That includes balanced meals, regular movement, strength training, proper sleep, and stress management, all critical for sustainable weight loss.

Related: SA considers wider use of Ozempic-style drugs for weight loss

Why weight often comes back

A major concern for people trying Ozempic is weight regain.

Many users report rapid weight loss, followed by weight gain after stopping the medication.

Khumalo says the reason is simple.

“When you haven’t changed your habits, weight regain is very common.”

Ozempic suppresses appetite, but it does not fix underlying behaviours.

Without long-term lifestyle changes, the body often returns to old patterns once the drug is stopped.

Risks and side effects

Ozempic is not risk-free.

Common side effects exist, but more serious complications, though less common, can include:

— Pancreatitis

— Gallbladder problems

— Thyroid tumours

Because of these risks, medical supervision is essential.

“Your doctor evaluates your health and whether your body will respond well,” Khumalo said.

Related: Don’t buy fake Ozempic or related drugs – risks are high, warns regulator

Related: Diabetics falling ill from dodgy black market Ozempic

Warning over off-market access

There are growing concerns in South Africa about people accessing Ozempic without a prescription.

Khumalo warns this can be dangerous.

“It is never advised to buy Ozempic off-market… You don’t know what’s in there.”

Using unregulated medication could put people’s health at serious risk.

A tool, not a solution

For people struggling to lose weight, Ozempic can help, but it is not a standalone solution.

Experts say long-term success still depends on consistent habits.

For people struggling to lose or keep off weight, Ozempic may help, but without lasting lifestyle changes, the weight often comes back.