People using Ozempic for weight loss are likely to continue the medication despite experiencing unpleasant side effects, driven largely by its perceived effectiveness, according to a recent study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research.
GLP 1 receptor agonists such as Ozempic, originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, have seen a surge in demand for weight management, often fueled by social media attention. Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide, a drug that mimics the hormone glucagon-like peptide 1, which regulates blood sugar, insulin secretion, and appetite.
Researchers examined real-world experiences by analysing 60 anonymous public reviews posted on Drugs.com.
The study found that users who experienced significant weight loss or reduced appetite reported high satisfaction and were willing to tolerate side effects. About 67 percent of users noted a marked reduction in appetite or food cravings, including diminished desire for sugary and greasy foods.
Gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation were the most commonly reported side effects. While these symptoms varied in severity, they generally did not influence users’ decisions to continue treatment. Fatigue was also frequently mentioned. Less common but more serious side effects included pancreatitis, kidney problems, allergic reactions, and gallbladder issues.
In contrast, individuals who reported minimal weight loss or experienced non-gastrointestinal side effects were more likely to discontinue the drug. Researchers concluded that perceived weight loss benefits outweighed discomfort for most users, shaping continued use even in the presence of adverse effects.