In this article
Key takeaways
- Ozempic (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes
- It reduces appetite and slows gastric emptying
- Average weight loss of 15-20% of body weight in clinical studies
- Requires mandatory medical prescription and supervision
- The most common side effects are gastrointestinal (nausea, diarrhoea)
- It is not a substitute for diet and exercise: it is a medical complement
What is Ozempic (semaglutide)?
Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide, an injectable medication belonging to the GLP-1 receptor agonist family (glucagon-like peptide-1). It was originally developed by Novo Nordisk for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, but clinical studies demonstrated that it produced significant weight loss as an additional benefit.
Semaglutide mimics the action of a natural hormone that our body produces after eating. This hormone sends satiety signals to the brain, regulates blood sugar levels and slows gastric emptying. At Clínica Eupnea in Palamós, our team of endocrinologists evaluates each case individually to determine whether Ozempic is the right option.
How does it work for weight loss?
Semaglutide acts on three main mechanisms that contribute to weight loss:
1. Appetite reduction: It acts on the satiety centres of the brain (hypothalamus), reducing feelings of hunger and the desire to eat. Patients report fewer obsessive thoughts about food and greater ease in controlling portions.
2. Slowing of gastric emptying: Food remains in the stomach for longer, prolonging the feeling of fullness after meals. This results in a natural reduction in daily caloric intake.
3. Glucose regulation: It improves insulin sensitivity and stabilises blood sugar levels, preventing hunger spikes associated with glycaemic fluctuations.
Administration is weekly via a subcutaneous injection, usually in the abdomen, thigh or arm. The dose is gradually increased during the first weeks to minimise side effects.
Who is a candidate for treatment?
Ozempic is not suitable for everyone. According to clinical guidelines, the ideal candidates are:
Patients with type 2 diabetes: The primary approved indication. It helps control blood sugar and, as an additional benefit, facilitates weight loss.
Patients with obesity (BMI ≥ 30): Semaglutide at higher doses (marketed as Wegovy) is specifically approved for the treatment of obesity.
Patients with overweight (BMI ≥ 27) with comorbidities: Such as hypertension, dyslipidaemia or metabolic syndrome.
⚠️ Important contraindications
Ozempic should not be used in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2, recurrent pancreatitis, pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always consult your endocrinologist before starting any treatment.
Expected clinical results
The STEP clinical trials (Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People with obesity) have demonstrated impressive results:
Weight loss: Participants lost an average of 15-17% of their body weight over 68 weeks with semaglutide 2.4 mg weekly, compared with 2.4% with placebo.
Metabolic improvement: Significant reductions in blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides and HbA1c in diabetic patients.
Cardiovascular benefits: The SELECT study demonstrated a 20% reduction in major cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke) in patients with overweight and cardiovascular disease.
It is important to have realistic expectations: weight loss is gradual and the best results are achieved by combining the medication with lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
Side effects and precautions
Like any medication, semaglutide can cause side effects. The most common are gastrointestinal and generally improve over time:
Very common (>10%): Nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation and abdominal pain. These tend to be mild to moderate and decrease as the body adapts to the medication.
Common (1-10%): Fatigue, dyspepsia, abdominal distension, gastro-oesophageal reflux, belching and flatulence.
Rare but serious: Pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, severe allergic reactions and, in very rare cases, kidney problems.
To minimise side effects, it is essential to:
- Increase the dose gradually (gradual escalation)
- Eat small portions slowly
- Avoid very fatty or heavy meals
- Maintain good hydration
- Follow your endocrinologist's instructions
Medical supervision at Clínica Eupnea
At Clínica Eupnea in Palamós, we firmly believe that the use of Ozempic and other GLP-1 agonists requires rigorous medical supervision. Our protocol includes:
Complete initial assessment: Blood tests, BMI and body composition evaluation, medical history review and ruling out contraindications.
Personalised plan: The endocrinologist establishes the treatment regimen, dose escalation and realistic weight goals for each patient.
Periodic follow-up: Regular check-up visits to monitor weight loss, adjust doses if necessary, control side effects and ensure adequate nutrition.
Nutritional support: Collaboration with our team of dietitians-nutritionists to ensure balanced nutrition during treatment.
Self-medication with semaglutide is dangerous and inadvisable. It must always be prescribed and supervised by a qualified medical professional.
Frequently asked questions
Clinical studies show an average loss of 15-17% of body weight over 68 weeks. However, results vary from patient to patient and depend on factors such as diet, exercise and treatment adherence. Your endocrinologist at Clínica Eupnea will help you set realistic goals.
Semaglutide has been extensively studied in large-scale clinical trials with follow-up of several years. Safety profiles are favourable, but it requires ongoing medical supervision. It is not recommended to stop treatment abruptly without consulting your doctor.
Studies indicate that some of the weight lost may be regained after stopping treatment. This is why it is essential to adopt healthy eating habits and regular exercise during treatment, to maintain results long-term.
The cost depends on the prescribed dose and health insurance coverage. Currently, semaglutide for obesity (Wegovy) is not funded by the Spanish National Health System for weight loss. Contact Clínica Eupnea for available options.
Want to know if Ozempic is right for you?
Book an appointment with our endocrinologist in Palamós for a personalised assessment.
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