The Dark Side of Ozempic: When Weight Loss Comes at a Cost

Ozempic’s Popularity and the Hype

Ozempic® (semaglutide) has become one of the most prescribed weight-loss drugs in the U.S., originally developed for type 2 diabetes but now widely used for obesity. The promise is simple: weekly injections that suppress appetite, slow digestion, and lead to weight loss.

For many, the first months are exciting — smaller portions, quick weight loss, and hope after years of failed diets. But long-term stories are painting a more complicated picture.

Common Side Effects of Ozempic

According to the manufacturer, the most frequent side effects involve digestion:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting

These are most likely to occur when starting or increasing the dose. Doctors recommend small, bland meals and hydration to help manage symptoms.

Lesser-Known & Emerging Side Effects

Patients and clinicians are reporting symptoms not always discussed at the start:

• Cognitive issues: memory problems, brain fog, difficulty concentrating
• Speech changes: word-finding difficulty, unclear speech
• Hair thinning or loss
• Vision or hearing changes
• “Ozempic face”: hollowed cheeks, sagging skin, more visible wrinkles due to rapid fat loss

While some may be linked to rapid weight loss and nutrient deficiencies, these changes can feel alarming, especially with long-term use.

The Problem With Stopping Ozempic: The Rebound Effect

A key issue with Ozempic is what happens when you stop. Studies and patient reports show:

• Rapid weight regain, sometimes more than what was lost
• Hunger hormones (like ghrelin) return to pre-medication levels
• Slower metabolism due to muscle loss during rapid weight loss

In many cases, doctors recommend indefinite use to maintain results. For patients, that can mean years of injections, expense, and uncertainty about long-term safety.

Ozempic vs Bariatric Surgery: Which Is More Sustainable?

While Ozempic is relatively new in weight management, bariatric surgery has decades of data showing durable results.

Why bariatric surgery may be a better long-term option:

• Sustainable results: Patients lose 60–70% of excess weight and keep it off.
• Metabolic improvements: Many achieve remission of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
• No indefinite medication: Surgery changes the digestive system permanently, reducing dependence on drugs.
• Holistic care: Patients receive support from surgeons, dietitians, and mental health providers.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Ozempic can help some patients in the short term, but the long-term unknowns and rebound effect raise serious concerns. Bariatric surgery, while more invasive up front, is proven to help patients achieve lasting weight loss, better health, and improved quality of life.

At BASS Bariatric Surgery Center, we’ve performed over 2,000 successful procedures with lower-than-average complication rates. Our experienced team provides ongoing care to help you succeed for life.

Call us at (925) 940-1052 or request a consultation online today.