What is the newest weight loss drug in Hollywood, and what is all the hype about? Ozempic (semaglutide) was originally developed to treat diabetes. It is similar to a natural hormone called glucagon, which raises blood sugar levels by three methods. It makes the liver release glucose (sugar) into the bloodstream, helps convert amino acids to glucose, and lowers the amount of glucose consumed by the liver. This helps keep blood sugar levels even in diabetes.
Low blood sugar levels produce a rise in appetite. By keeping blood sugar levels from dipping too low, Ozempic prevents hunger, making it easier to resist overeating.
While taking Ozempic, patients need to stick to a low calorie diet and perform physical activity to burn calories and build muscle tissue. Muscle tissue at rest burns more calories than fat tissue, so replacing fat tissue with muscle mass is helpful in maintaining a healthy weight.