'Miracle' weight loss drug Ozempic is approved. But does it work?

Mar 30, 2023

Dr. Robert Kushner, a Professor of Medicine at Northwestern University and founder of the American Board of Obesity Medicine, discusses the revolutionary weight loss drug Ozempic, which has gained popularity despite some skepticism. He highlights findings from the pivotal clinical trial on semaglutide, emphasizing its potential as a game-changer in obesity treatment. Will Bulsiewicz, ZOE's U.S. Medical Director, adds insights on the importance of gut health and personalized nutrition, advocating for a holistic approach to weight management.

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INSIGHT

Semaglutide's Mechanism

Semaglutide mimics a natural hormone regulating appetite and promoting fullness.
It enhances the body's natural mechanism to reduce hunger and increase contentment between meals.

INSIGHT

Ozempic vs. Wegovy

Ozempic and Wegovy both contain semaglutide but are approved for different conditions and dosages.
Ozempic treats type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is for obesity.

INSIGHT

STEP-1 Trial Results

The STEP-1 trial showed that semaglutide, combined with lifestyle changes, led to significant weight loss.
Participants lost 15% of their body weight on average, with one-third losing 20% or more.

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A miracle weight loss drug that’s approved in the US and the UK and has few side effects?

Ozempic is going viral on social media. Users are posting dramatic before and after pictures of their weight loss. An Ozempic trend is allegedly blossoming in Hollywood, and famous personalities like Elon Musk claim to have taken it.

Many remain doubtful, dismissing the craze as just another internet scam preying on people’s insecurities. However, earlier this month - semaglutide - the drug’s active ingredient, was approved as a weight loss treatment by the UK’s National Health Service. Even the most sceptical are taking note.

Jonathan speaks to Dr Robert Kushner the lead investigator of the huge phase 3 clinical trial that evaluated the safety and effectiveness of semaglutide. He is a founder of the American Board of Obesity Medicine and hailed the drug as a ‘game-changer’ in regards to the treatment of obesity.

Please be aware: Dr. Kushner is also a consultant on the medical advisory board for Novo Nordisk - the company that manufactures semaglutide.

Dr Robert Kushner is a Professor of Medicine at Northwestern University and a founder of the American Board of Obesity Medicine.

Download our FREE guide — Top 10 Tips to Live Healthier: https://zoe.com/freeguide

Timecodes:

03:17 – Quickfire questions

04:20 – What is Ozempic, and how does it work?

05:54 – Treating obesity like diabetes

10:24 – The ‘gamechanger’ Semiglutide clinical trial

14:19 – The role our ancestors play in our weight

17:16 – Short-term weight loss vs long-term weight loss

18:40 – Myths about obesity

21:53 – Obesity, a modern problem

23:56 – Other outcomes of the clinical trial

26:59 – The side effects of Semiglutide

31:45 – Risks of using Semiglutide without medical supervision

33:05 – Is Semaglutide linked to cancer?

36:59 – Can you take it If you’re not obese?

39:15 – The long term commitment of Semiglutide

42:49 – Will I put on weight if I stop taking it?

46:01 – Is this the end of obesity

49:30 – Summary

52:28 – Outro

Episode transcripts are available here.

Dr. Robert Kushner’s book, Six Factors to Fit: Weight Loss that Works for You!, is available to buy here

Follow Dr. Robert Kushner here

Studies mentioned: Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity

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