While Ozempic, Saxenda, Wegovy or Mounjaro may effectively aid weight loss, the post-usage side effects may outweigh the benefits.
Dubbed as the ultimate rapid weight loss solution, a viral TikTok trend for type 2 diabetes drugs has taken the world by storm. However, the alarming truth remains concealed beneath the surface.
Discontinuing the use of Ozempic, Saxenda, Mounjaro or Wegovy, commonly recommended for managing type 2 diabetes or obesity, can unleash a host of unfavourable side effects, UAE-based doctors revealed to Arabian Business.
The TikTok hype caused a global shortage in the lifesaving medicine for diabetes patients earlier this year, including in the UAE, after being sold at pharmacies without prescription at exorbitant prices as people hopped on the TikTok bandwagon to lose weight quickly.
Ozempic face’
“Ozempic face” is one of the common side effects associated with the type 2 diabetes drug, which refers to the sagging and ageing of facial skin as the drug affects skin elasticity.
The term, which has been widely used on TikTok, has raised concerns among many who are taking these drugs.
“Weight loss can cause dermatological changes and shrinking because the fat that stretches and cushions the skin is no longer in place,” Dr. Mustafa Ghura, Specialist General and Bariatric Surgeon at Abu Dhabi’s Burjeel Day Surgery Centre in Al Reem Island, told Arabian Business.
“Structural integrity is affected when weight loss affects the skin’s ability to retract.”
Board-certified Plastic Surgeon Gary Motykie said in a TikTok video posted in February that rapid weight loss or weight loss through drugs like Ozempic affect the face just as they do the body.
“The thing about rapid weight loss or things like Ozempic, is whatever happens to your body will also happen to your face,” Motykie said at the time, “So what they’re saying is a lot of loss of facial fat volume, volume in the face is also going away.
“It is not necessarily a great look, because everybody knows as we get a little bit older and we lose volume in our face, we tend to look gaunt, tired, and older.”
Signs of rapid ageing such as wrinkles, loose skin or a hollowed-out appearance may be seen in some people taking Ozempic. In addition, it increases their risk of lipodystrophy, a problem with how the body accumulates and stores fat.
“‘Ozempic face’ is a rather derogatory phrase to describe the various effects of rapid significant weight loss on the facial appearance, including extra facial skin, hollow cheeks, or the apparent look of ageing,” Ajith Kumar, Consultant Endocrinologist at Medeor Hospital Dubai, told Arabian Business.
Ghura warned that those taking Ozempic may be “unable to prevent facial side effects,” but can minimise them by reducing the dosage, opting for a different medication, drinking at least 1 litre of water per day, improving protein intake, or using dermal fillers.
“This is not a medical term and should not be used, as it adds to the stigma and discrimination associated with the diagnosis of obesity,” Kumar said.
Weight regain
Losing weight on Ozempic is just as easy as gaining it back once you stop taking it.
Aside from diabetics, these drugs are often prescribed to those grappling with obesity to help them kick-start their weight loss journey. While the results of these medicines are very quick and highly effective, it is important to note that they work to regulate blood sugar and curb one’s appetite. Discontinuing the medicine can mean that one’s appetite may revert back to normal, resulting in overeating and potentially weight gain.
A 2022 study, which examined the changes in body weight and metabolic risk factors of 1,961 participants one year after taking Ozempic, found that weight regain was a common occurrence after they stopped taking the medicine and that some experienced increased cravings and blood sugar spikes.
“Once you stop taking these medications, the body will gradually revert to its previous state. The body’s metabolism and energy levels will return to their previous state and the patient may experience an increase in appetite and weight gain,” said Ghura.
“Those who stop these effective injectable GLP1 agents tend to have gradual weight regain,” Kumar said.
This is why doctors encourage patients to use the drug in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise for both optimal results and prolonged weight control after discontinuing the medication.
Obesity is becoming more prevalent worldwide, with estimates predicting that over 4 billion will be obese or overweight within the next 12 years, according to the World Obesity Federation.
“While taking these medications, patients should make lifestyle changes that will help them maintain their weight loss once they stop the medication. This may involve adopting healthier eating habits, a regular exercise routine, and managing stress,” said Ghura.
According to Kumar, there is no one ideal duration to suit all patients.
“Generally, the duration of the initial clinical trials on the efficacy and safety of these effective injectable GLP1 agents have been 1 to 2 years. Hence, it is expected that the treatment be continued for 1 or 2 years,” Kumar explained, adding that however continuous treatment is evolving, especially for those who experienced weight regain after drug withdrawal.
Increased risk of thyroid cancer
In clinical trials with rodents, Ozempic and other similar medicines were seen to cause thyroid tumours, including thyroid cancer.
This information is mentioned on the box of the medicine stating that patients who notice any lumps or swelling in the neck or experience hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath should consult with their healthcare provider.