Person on bathroom scale wondering how to get Ozempic® for weight loss

How to get Ozempic® for weight loss: what you need to know

Updated March 20, 2024. Previously published on April 14, 2023 by Gillian (Gigi) Singer, MPH. To give you technically accurate, evidence-based information, content published on the Everlywell blog is reviewed by credentialed professionals with expertise in medical and bioscience fields.

Table of contents

As of 2022, 43% of adults are overweight and 16% are obese. [1] Excessive fat deposits can significantly impact one’s health, increasing the risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. [1]

In many cases, weight gain occurs when the amount of calories consumed outweighs the number of calories burned. However, genetics, mental state, and obesogenic environments can also play a factor. [2]

While lifestyle changes such as exercise and nutrition are essential for weight loss, they are often not enough for many people. Fortunately, for those who struggle with weight loss, there are several prescription medications available, including Ozempic®. This article will discuss Ozempic® and how to get Ozempic® for weight loss.

All About Ozempic®

Ozempic® is a once-weekly injection medication that was originally developed to help manage type 2 diabetes. Although the medication is not approved for weight management by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), its cousin medication, called Wegovy®, is. Both medications contain an active ingredient called semaglutide. This compound can mimic a naturally occurring hormone (GLP-1) in the body that suppresses appetite. [3]

How Does Ozempic® Work?

To further understand how Ozempic works as a weight loss treatment, it's important to delve into its mechanism of action at a cellular level. Beyond its appetite-suppressing effects, Ozempic stimulates the production of insulin, a hormone crucial for regulating the body's energy balance. [4]

Insulin plays a pivotal role in managing blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into insulin-dependent cells and tissues, such as the liver, muscle, and adipose tissue. Essentially, insulin acts as a carrier, transporting sugar derived from the foods and beverages we consume to various parts of the body that require it for energy production and other vital functions. [4]

Moreover, Ozempic works to curtail the excessive production of glucose by the liver. Normally, insulin signals the liver to store surplus glucose in the form of glycogen. However, when insulin levels are too high, this signaling can lead to an overproduction of glycogen, contributing to elevated blood sugar levels. [5] By modulating this process, Ozempic helps maintain blood sugar within a healthy range. [5]

Furthermore, Ozempic exerts its effects by delaying the emptying of the stomach, resulting in prolonged feelings of fullness and reduced overall appetite. This delayed gastric emptying can help individuals better manage their food intake and potentially contribute to weight loss efforts. [5]

Getting Ozempic®

Wondering how to get an Ozempic prescription for weight loss? If you and your health care provider (HCP) have decided that Ozempic treatment® is the right option to support your weight loss goals, there are several ways to obtain the medication [6]:

  • Get a prescription from your HCP – The first step is to get an Ozempic prescription from your HCP. They will provide you with a prescription that you can take to your local pharmacy.
  • Purchase from a local pharmacy – Once you have your prescription, you can purchase Ozempic® from your local pharmacy. The cost may vary depending on your insurance coverage.
  • Order online – Many online pharmacies offer Ozempic®. However, it is important to ensure that you are ordering from a reputable source. Look for online pharmacies that are licensed and have a physical address listed.
  • Apply for patient assistance programs – Some drug manufacturers offer patient assistance programs that can help cover the cost of medication for eligible individuals. Check with the manufacturer of Ozempic® to determine if they offer any assistance programs.

Considerations Before Starting Ozempic®

If you are considering Ozempic ® as a weight loss treatment, there are a few things you should know before getting started [7]:

  • Consult with your healthcare provider (HCP) – Before starting any weight loss medication, it is essential to speak with your HCP. They will be able to evaluate your current health status and determine if Ozempic® is a suitable option for you. They may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, to help support your weight loss goals. [7]
  • Check your insurance coverage – Ozempic® is a prescription medication, and the cost can vary depending on your insurance coverage. [7]
  • Follow the dosage instructions – Ozempic® is a once-weekly injectable medication. It is imperative to follow the dosage instructions provided by your HCP or pharmacist. [7]
  • Monitor your blood sugar levels – While Ozempic® is primarily used for weight loss, it is important to monitor your blood sugar levels if you have type 2 diabetes. Your HCP may need to adjust your dosage or other medications to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Additionally, it’s essential to be aware of the potential side effects of Ozempic®. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation [7]. More severe side effects may include [8]:

  • Thyroid c-cell tumors – Although rare, there have been reports of an association between Ozempic and the development of thyroid c-cell tumors. Patients should be vigilant for symptoms such as neck lumps, difficulty swallowing, or persistent hoarseness.
  • Pancreatitis – An inflammation of the pancreas, which can manifest as severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. If such symptoms occur, seek medical advice immediately.
  • Diabetic retinopathy complications – Individuals with diabetes may be at increased risk of developing or worsening diabetic retinopathy, a condition affecting the eyes. Regular eye examinations are recommended to monitor for any changes in eyesight.
  • Hypoglycemia – An abnormally low level of blood sugar, which can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, sweating, and fainting.
  • Acute kidney injury – In rare cases, Ozempic® may cause acute kidney injury, characterized by decreased urine output, swelling, and fatigue.
  • Hypersensitivity – Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Ozempic®, presenting as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
  • Acute gallbladder disease – There have been reports of Ozempic® being associated with acute gallbladder disease, which may manifest as severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Weight Management Through Virtual Care

If you feel uncomfortable, unwilling, or unable to visit a healthcare office in person, virtual care appointments are available to discuss your next steps to manage your weight, which may include Ozempic®. Getting Ozempic online involves regular consultations with a healthcare professional or an online weight loss program.

Initially, your medical history is reviewed, and relevant lab tests may be ordered to determine the appropriateness of weight loss medication.

During the next visit, the test results are evaluated, and personalized care is planned based on your health and weight goals. The plan includes lifestyle recommendations and may also consist of prescription weight loss medication.

Once you start taking the medication, regular check-ins with your healthcare provider are scheduled to assess your progress and medication tolerance and adjust the care plan as necessary, which may involve additional lab tests or prescription refills.

Manage Your Weight With Everlywell

Ozempic® can be an effective weight loss option for people who struggle with being overweight or obese. That said, it may not be the best weight management tool for everyone. To assess your needs and explore personalized solutions for your weight loss journey, consider utilizing the comprehensive resources offered by Everlywell.

The Everlywell GLP-1 weight loss program (Weight Care+) includes one-on-one virtual visits, in which you can speak to a licensed healthcare provider to determine how to best manage your weight. If you qualify for Ozempic, GLP-1 prescriptions are available. Beyond medications, our healthcare team can also offer personalized insights into your health and potential lifestyle changes.

Enroll today.

References
  1. Obesity and Overweight. WHO. Medical Citation URL. Accessed March 21, 2024.
  2. Obesity and Overweight. WHO. Medical Citation URL. Accessed March 21, 2024.
  3. Blundell J. Effects of once‐weekly semaglutide on appetite, energy intake, control of eating, food preference and body weight in subjects with obesity. Wiley. Medical Citation URL. doi: 10.1111/dom.12932. Accessed March 21, 2024.
  4. Rahman MS, Hossain KS, Das S, et al. Role of Insulin in Health and Disease: An Update. Int J Mol Sci. 2021;22(12):6403. doi:10.3390/ijms22126403. Medical Citation URL. Accessed March 21, 2024.
  5. Serrano J. LiverTox: An online information resource and a site for case report submission on drug-induced liver injury. Clinical Liver Disease. 2018;4(1):22-25. doi:10.1002/cld.388. Medical Citation URL. Accessed March 21, 2024.
  6. Berryhill D. How to Get Ozempic. Forbes. Medical Citation URL. Accessed March 21, 2024.
  7. Indication and important safety information. Ozempic® (semaglutide) Injection 0.5 mg or 1 mg for Type 2 Diabetes. Medical Citation URL. Accessed March 21, 2024.
  8. Frequently asked questions about Ozempic® (semaglutide) injection. Ozempic. Medical Citation URL. Accessed March 21, 2024.
Gillian (Gigi) Singer, MPH, Sexuality Educator & Certified Sexologistis an American Board of Sexology Certified Sexologist and trained Sexuality Educator who primarily works in sexual health communications as a health writer. Gillian earned her BA in Gender, Sexuality & Women's Studies and Spanish from Union College (NY), spent a year as a Fulbright Scholar, and then continued her education with Modern Sex Therapy Institutes before earning her MPH from Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health with a Certificate in Sexuality, Sexual & Reproductive Health. She is the owner of The Gigi Spot, LLC, a digital sexuality education platform and brand. Gillian aims to educate and use compassion and empathy to foster positive change and development. Her professional interests include sexuality education, curriculum design and consulting, and sex technology.
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