See the DrugPatentWatch profile for ozempic

Ozempic (generic name: semaglutide) is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, primarily prescribed to manage type 2 diabetes by helping to control blood sugar levels [1]. However, there is growing evidence and interest in using Ozempic for weight loss purposes, independent of its blood sugar-regulating effects [2].

Clinical trials have demonstrated that Ozempic can lead to significant weight reductions in obese or overweight individuals without diabetes [3]. In a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, participants treated with Ozempic experienced an average weight loss of 12.4% compared to 2.4% in the placebo group [4].

In December 2021, the FDA approved Ozempic for chronic weight management, making it the first GLP-1 receptor agonist to receive such approval [5]. This decision was based on the results of the SUSTAIN clinical trial program, which showed that Ozempic-treated patients achieved substantial and sustained weight loss [6].

While Ozempic has shown promise for weight loss, it is important to note that potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain [1]. Additionally, the cost of Ozempic can be relatively high, which may be a limiting factor for some patients [7].

In summary, based on the available information, Ozempic can be used for weight loss, both in individuals with type 2 diabetes and those without. It has demonstrated significant weight reduction capabilities in clinical trials, and the FDA has approved it for chronic weight management [1, 2, 4, 5].

Sources:
[1] Novo Nordisk - Ozempic (semaglutide) injection, [https://www.novonordisk-us.com/drugs/ozempic.html]
[2] DrugPatentWatch - Semaglutide (Ozempic), [https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/semaglutide]
[3] National Library of Medicine - Semaglutide, [https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Semaglutide]
[4] The New England Journal of Medicine - Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity, [https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183]
[5] FDA - FDA approves new drug for chronic weight management, [https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-drug-chronic-weight-management]
[6] National Library of Medicine - Efficacy and safety of semaglutide in patients with overweight or obesity: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33137311/]
[7] GoodRx - Ozempic Prices, Coupons and Patient Assistance Programs, [https://www.goodrx.com/ozempic]