‘Ozempic is a dangerous game’ warns doctor

A doctor has warned against a controversial drug that people are so desperate to use to lose weight, they’re willing to buy illegal versions online.

Doctor urges against Ozempic for weight loss

Welcome to Ask Doctor Zac, a weekly column from news.com.au. This week, Dr Zac Turner warns a desperate woman against Ozempic.

QUESTION: Hi Dr Zac, I’m not obese, I just want to shift 10kg off my body. Should I be using Ozempic illegally? I want to buy it off the internet. Which one should I buy as there are a couple to choose from? I don’t want to find a GP that will prescribe it to me. How much trouble if I get caught? – Anon, Sydney

ANSWER: Do not purchase bootleg Ozempic off the internet. I cannot stress that enough. You said it quite clearly in your question: it is illegal. There’s a reason why it is illegal, it is unsafe and poses a serious health risk.

You are running the risk of some hefty fines and potentially charges along with a myriad of health risks.

Purchasing Ozempic off the internet means you are foregoing the rigorous tests and checks of the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

The TGA has approved Ozempic solely for treating type 2 diabetes after evaluation of its quality, safety and efficacy. It is not yet approved for weight loss in Australia and should only be determined as an appropriate treatment option in consultation with a medical practitioner.

The warning exists for a reason. To keep us safe.

Rebel Wilson has taken Ozempic for weight loss. Picture: Instagram

Kelly Osbourne has praised the drug but claims she never took it. Picture: Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

There are doctors who will prescribe you Ozempic for weight loss. I am sorry to break it to you but any method for losing weight takes effort. Including finding the right doctor.

Ozempic, or semaglutide, is primarily prescribed to manage type 2 diabetes, but it’s also been recognised for its potential in helping with weight management. It works by mimicking the action of a hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and can also contribute to feelings of fullness, leading to reduced food intake and potential weight loss.

Even though you may have heard success stories or seen promising results, every individual’s body responds differently to medications. What works for one person may not work the same for another, and there may be underlying health conditions or factors that need to be taken into consideration.

It works by mimicking the action of a hormone called GLP-1. Picture: iStock

Like any medication, Ozempic can cause side effects, ranging from mild to severe. Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and decreased appetite. However, more serious side effects such as pancreatitis, kidney problems, or thyroid tumours are possible, although rare.

There are so many simple, healthy and cheap ways to lose weight. Picture: iStock

A doctor is the buffer from stopping these side effects that take a serious turn in your body. If you take Ozempic by yourself, you are playing a very dangerous game.

As I have stated in a previous column, there are some easy methods to losing stubborn fat that don’t involve injecting weight loss drugs.

Walking

It seems simple doesn’t it? But it’s always the first stepping stone I recommend to patients who are looking to start exercising. You can do it anywhere, with anyone, at any time. No need to spend money on equipment, and it puts limited stress on your joints. Perfect for the teenager and grandmother.

Swimming

Another simple practice you can pick up which has great health benefits. It’s low-impact and nearly everyone in towns or cities has a local pool they can join.

Studies have linked cycling with a reduced risk of chronic diseases. Picture: iStock

Cycling

Studies have linked this universal exercise with a reduced risk of chronic diseases. The whole family can take part. I recommend finding a cycle loop, and letting the family go at their own pace.

Yoga

Don’t waste your money on expensive yoga class memberships. Have your family set up an impromptu studio in the living room and chuck YouTube up on the telly. There are thousands of free yoga classes there.

Weight training

I’ll be amiss if I don’t put training with weights on this list. You’ll burn calories during and after the workout, while building muscle mass to improve your overall strength. Your family can vary weights according to age and strength. And yes, Nanna should definitely be lifting weights as well. This will improve her mobility and preserve her independence as she ages.

Got a question? Email [e-mail]

Dr Zac Turner has a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Sydney. He is both a medical practitioner and a co-owner of telehealth service, Concierge Doctors. He was also a registered nurse and is a qualified and experienced biomedical scientist along with being a PhD Candidate in Biomedical Engineering.

Originally published as ‘Ozempic is a dangerous game’ warns doctor