Semaglutide, a drug used in popular weight loss injections, contributed to nearly 25,000 emergency room visits between 2022 and 2023, according to a new study. Most visits related to the medication involved gastrointestinal problems.
The study, published April 8, found visits were typically due to nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Researchers analyzing national surveillance data believe more than 82% of these visits occurred in 2023.
Less frequent issues reported included low blood sugar, allergic reactions, pancreatitis, and bile duct disease. Doctors advising patients about beginning semaglutide should discuss the potential for severe gastrointestinal issues.
The drug is also linked to gastroparesis, a condition sometimes called stomach paralysis that prevents proper stomach emptying. The Food and Drug Administration in 2024 issued a warning that Ozempic, a brand name for semaglutide, could lead to ileus, a type of bowel obstruction.
Alongside these medical concerns, anecdotal reports and public discussion have highlighted cosmetic changes attributed to rapid weight loss associated with these drugs. Nicknames like "Ozempic face," "Ozempic mouth," "Ozempic feet," and "Ozempic butt" describe sagging skin, lost volume, and increased wrinkles in various body areas.
These cosmetic side effects are a byproduct of rapid weight loss itself, not the medication, experts say. Losing fat and muscle mass quickly can lead to changes in body appearance.
Public figures like Amy Schumer have discussed the use of these medications, adding to the broader conversation about their effects and public perception.
Experts suggest these effects can be lessened by slowing the pace of weight loss and making lifestyle adjustments. Dietary changes, including increasing protein intake, and incorporating resistance training into exercise routines can help maintain muscle mass.
The goal of using these medications for weight loss or surgery is to reach a healthy weight to minimize obesity-related health conditions and promote a normal lifespan, according to Mir Ali, MD, a general surgeon.