The Truth About Ozempic and Other GLP-1 Medications: What You Need to Know About Weight Loss, Side Effects, and Safety
If you’ve been searching for “Ozempic for weight loss”, “Ozempic side effects,” or “Is Ozempic safe?”, you’re not alone. GLP-1 medications—including Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound—are some of the most Googled weight-loss treatments today.
At Nourish Nutrition & Wellness, we help clients navigate the hype with facts. Whether you’re considering Ozempic for obesity, have type 2 diabetes, or simply want to understand how these medications work, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.
What Is Ozempic? How GLP-1 Medications Work in the Body
Ozempic (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist originally approved for type 2 diabetes—but it quickly became popular for weight loss due to its powerful effects on appetite and metabolism.
GLP-1 medications work by:
Reducing appetite and lowering cravings
Slowing stomach emptying so you feel fuller longer
Stabilizing blood sugar to reduce hunger spikes
Improving insulin response
Decreasing food noise, which many users describe as life-changing
Other popular GLP-1 medications include:
Wegovy (semaglutide) – approved for weight management
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) – dual GIP/GLP-1 medication
Zepbound (tirzepatide) – approved for obesity treatment
How Much Weight Can You Lose on Ozempic or Other GLP-1s?
Research shows:
Wegovy: ~15% average body-weight loss
Zepbound: 20–22% average body-weight loss
Ozempic (off-label for weight loss): varies, but 5–12% is common
However, actual results vary. People with consistent nutrition habits, better sleep, and regular movement often see better outcomes.
Common Ozempic & GLP-1 Side Effects (and How to Reduce Them)
The most reported side effects include:
Nausea
Constipation
Bloating
Fatigue
Low appetite
Diarrhea
Heartburn
Most side effects are related to delayed gastric emptying, and often improve with time.
Ways to reduce side effects:
Eat smaller, slower meals
Limit high-fat foods
Stay hydrated
Avoid overeating (which triggers nausea fast)
Increase protein gradually
Work with a dietitian to adjust meal patterns
Do You Regain Weight After Stopping Ozempic?
Short answer: Often, yes—a portion of the weight returns.
Why? Because:
Appetite increases back to baseline
Blood sugar variability returns
Old habits may return without support
This is why nutrition, habits, and ongoing support matter as much as the medication itself.
The goal isn’t to stay on GLP-1s forever unless medically appropriate—but to build sustainable habits so that any weight regain is minimal.
Ozempic vs Wegovy vs Mounjaro vs Zepbound — Which Is Best?
Choosing “the best” depends on:
Insurance coverage
Tolerance to side effects
Medical history
Weight-loss goals
Provider preference
A prescribing provider can help you choose the safest, most effective option.
How Much Does Ozempic Cost?
Typical ranges (which vary widely):
Ozempic: $800–$1,200/month
Wegovy: $1,200–$1,500/month
Mounjaro: $1,000–$1,400/month
Zepbound: ~$1,000/month
Insurance coverage depends on diagnosis codes (diabetes is usually covered; weight-loss only sometimes is).
Do You Still Need Nutrition Counseling If You’re on Ozempic?
Absolutely!
The reality:
GLP-1s change how much you want to eat,
BUT they don’t teach you what to eat or how to maintain results.
Working with a dietitian helps you:
Protect muscle mass with adequate protein
Prevent nutrient deficiencies
Build sustainable habits
Manage GI side effects
Support blood sugar balance
Keep weight off long-term
At Nourish Nutrition & Wellness, we help clients build a nutrition plan that works with GLP-1 medications, not against them.
Who Should NOT Take Ozempic or GLP-1 Medications?
Avoid or use caution if you have:
Personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer
MEN2 syndrome
Severe GI disorders
History of pancreatitis
Pregnancy or trying to conceive
Active eating disorder
Always consult with your medical provider.
The Bottom Line: Should You Use Ozempic for Weight Loss?
GLP-1 medications can be life-changing, especially for people with obesity, insulin resistance, or type 2 diabetes. But they are not a magic cure.
They work best when combined with:
Balanced, protein-forward meals
Blood-sugar-friendly eating patterns
Mindful movement
Support from a dietitian
Stress and sleep management
Medication lowers the barriers—your habits sustain the progress.
If you want help in your weight loss journey, our dietitians at Nourish Nutrition & Wellness are here to help! We will help you meal plan, structure your meals so they are healthy and balanced, and help you include your favorite foods.