Ozempic Butt: Know about the unspoken side effect of the popular diabetes drug — straight from experts

The Ozempic drug has been creating quite a buzz recently. Celebrities like Elon Musk, Sharon Osbourne, Amy Schumer and Kathy Bates have recently opened up about their experiences of using Ozempic as a part of their weight-loss journey.?

Ozempic is primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels. However, it has gained popularity for an unexpected side effect which is promoting weight loss. This has led to a surge in demand, so much so, that shortages have been reported for people who need it to manage their blood sugar levels, according to a report in The New York Times.?

In India, drugs like Wegovy, Ozempic or similar ones have not been approved for use yet but they are available in unauthorised markets, especially in major cities. While the growing use may seem promising, it comes with its own set of consequences, warn experts.?

Ozempic users notice unexpected bodily changes?

Ozempic is associated with several side effects including nausea, constipation, and abdominal pain. A study conducted by the Pew Research Center in March 2024 noted that the demand for weight is steadily rising with over 2 million Americans taking Ozempic as a weight-loss drug. Additionally, Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic made a profit of $21.1 billion in 2023. However, along with weight loss as a side effect, some people have reported some unexpected changes in their bodies such as a phenomenon called Ozempic Face and Ozempic Butt.?

The terms "Ozempic butt" or "Ozempic face" have gained attention in popular media, but they are not medical terms. "These describe the appearance of volume loss or sagging in areas like the buttocks and face, which some people notice after weight loss, particularly when using medications like Ozempic (semaglutide). Originally prescribed to manage diabetes, Ozempic has also shown effectiveness for weight loss, leading to a reduction in fat in some areas," explained Dr Rajiv Kovil, Head of Diabetology, Zandra Healthcare and Co-founder of Rang De Neela Initiative.?

Who is at a higher risk of an Ozempic butt??

It’s important to note that there are no current statistics on how many people might experience such effects. According to Dr Kovil, "These changes are not side effects of the drug itself but rather a result of rapid weight loss, where skin may not tighten as quickly as fat is lost, creating a sagging appearance. Each individual’s response to weight loss, medication, and lifestyle factors like diet and exercise varies."?

People who experience significant and rapid weight loss, particularly those using GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic, may be at higher risk of developing 'Ozempic butt.'?

According to Dr Shrey Srivastav, Senior Consultant-Internal Medicine, Sharda Hospital, Greater Noida, “This condition, characterized by sagging or loss of volume in the buttocks, is more common among individuals with lower muscle mass or who don't maintain strength training as they lose weight."?

Ways to deal with Ozempic Butt??

For those concerned about potential sagging, strategies to help include resistance training to build muscle, a balanced diet to support skin elasticity, and, in some cases, cosmetic procedures like fillers. Consulting healthcare professionals can help create a plan suited to individual health goals.?

Sharing ways to avoid the condition, Akash Shah Consultant-Pathologist Neuberg Diagnostics, Ahmedabad explained, “Preventing Ozempic butt involves combining weight-loss efforts with regular strength training, especially exercises that target the glute muscles.”?

Gradual weight loss rather than rapid shedding is also helpful in preserving muscle mass. Staying active, maintaining a balanced diet with sufficient protein, and consulting a healthcare provider can support overall body composition during weight loss.?

Do you prefer a gradual weight loss or a rapid one with side effects? Let us know in the comment section below.? ?

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