Ozempic, described by Variety as “Hollywood’s worst kept secret,” is the drug being misused for weight loss in the entertainment industry. The drug, which is at the forefront of celebrity culture, is trending now more than ever.
The Ozempic craze has been in the media since the summer of 2023, with much of the focus being on celebrity trends and weight loss. However, through analyzing Google trend data, ‘Ozempic’ is at it’s peak online interest in April 2024.
The popularity of this topic inevitably makes one curious about why people are drawn to it and how it works, so let’s get some answers.
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic was introduced in 2017 to treat type 2 diabetes. The drug helps diabetics by allowing the pancreas to produce more insulin when blood sugar levels are high. The drug also acts in the part of the brain that is responsible for regulating appetite, meaning people experience weight loss.
The active ingredient in Ozempic is ‘semagultide,’ which was approved for weight loss only in the case of obesity in 2021. It was approved under the name ‘Wegovy,’ which is a slightly different dosage from that of Ozempic. Ozempic itself is only approved for prescriptions to diabetics. However, off-label prescriptions have been common for weight loss as many desire to join the ‘Ozempic-train.’
Celebrities on Weight-Loss Drugs
Part of the social media frenzy about Ozempic has been the speculation of which celebrities are taking the drug. Visible weight loss within Hollywood is now simultaneous with Ozempic rumors. Kim Kardashian was rumoured to be on the drug after she lost around 16 pounds in less than a month to infamously fit into the Marilyn Monroe dress for the 2022 Met Gala.
Sister Kylie Jenner has also been rumored to have used Ozempic after many noticed her sudden weight loss. This has been paired with ex-boyfriend Travis Scott’s lyrics from the January release ‘Backr00ms’ which follow: “She doin Ozempic tryna be different, tryna be a new woman.” It is not evident who the rapper is talking about, and Kylie is yet to address her potential use of the drug.
Donald Trump, a different type of public figure, has also been rumored to have taken Ozempic after notable weight loss during his campaign. According to The Mirror, Trump denies these claims, instead claiming the weight loss to be a consequence of a lack of time to eat during his busy schedule.
Despite those mentioned only being rumored users, many celebrities and public figures have spoken out about their use of Ozempic. Here’s a short list of all those who have admitted to taking weight loss drugs and spoken of these in a positive light:
”I think it is amazing… it actually works.”
Kelly Osbourne
1. Kelly Osbourne
Daughter to Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne, Kelly has admitted to using Ozempic and sees it as positive. Kelly has been quoted saying “I think it is amazing… it actually works.”
2. Elon Musk
The tech entrepreneur has admitted to using Wegovy in October 2023. He accredited the drug for his weight-loss, along with fasting.
3. Oprah Winfrey
In December 2023, show-host and personality Oprah Winfrey described her experience with weight loss medication as positive. Winfrey didn’t name which drug she uses, however, she thinks it is positive and believes there shouldn’t be a stigma around taking weight loss drugs.
4. Rebel Wilson
In an interview with the Sunday Times, Wilson states: “Someone like me could have a bottomless appetite for sweets so I think those drugs can be good.”
5. Terry Dubrow
Plastic surgeon and television star Dubrow talks on Ozempic, saying “I love it. It is so good.”
What They Aren’t Telling You
Despite us not knowing each celebrity’s situation regarding weight, one can assume they do not all categorize as obese. In reference to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, an adult BMI would fall at higher than 30 to be classified as obese. Therefore, many celebrities are promoting this unethical activity of obtaining off-label prescriptions. This intense promotion of the drug for incorrect usage has caused multiple shortages of Ozempic. These shortages therefore are damaging to those with diabetes who cannot access the medication they need. General practitioners have been asked continually to prioritize the drug for diabetic patients. Although off-label prescriptions are not illegal in the UK or America, it is always advised that prescriptions are done by following guidance on ethical practice.
Side Effects
Besides being used unethically, Ozempic use is also negative due to its long-term effects being unknown. There has been a lack of studies on the long-term implications of Ozempic, especially for those not diabetic. Some side effects which are known include thyroid tumors which can be cancerous, low blood sugar, and inflammation of the pancreas. Other side effects include being overly thirsty all the time, vomiting, diarrhea, and actually losing too much weight. The drug is intended for long-term treatment, therefore those who only use it periodically for cosmetic weight loss have reported heavy weight gain after coming off the drug as well.
Celebrity Criticism on Ozempic
”I was literally throwing up four to five times a day.”
Stephen Fry
Despite lots of celebrities talking about the positives of the drug, lots have also addressed the negative. Here is a short list of those who disagree or dislike Ozempic:
1. Stephen Fry
Actor and writer Fry spoke on the Ruthie’s Table 4 podcast in March on his experience with Ozempic, saying “I was literally throwing up four to five times a day.”
2. Andy Cohen
television host Cohen went on Twitter to explore his problems with Ozempic: “Everyone is suddenly showing up 25 pounds lighter. What happens when they stop taking hashtag Ozempic?????”
3. Jameela Jamil
Actor and activist Jamil took to social media as well to share her thoughts on Ozempic. She writes on Instagram: “It is now a mainstream craze in Hollywood. HOPE this doesn’t end the same way we were told opioids were safe. There is little to no discussion of the side effects in any advertising online.”
4. Sharon Osbourne
Despite her daughter’s praise for the drug, Sharon stopped taking Ozempic due to her accidentally losing too much weight.
5. Raven-Symoné
While not necessarily discouraging the drug, the actress spoke on the ethics of the issue in an interview with E! News. She said: “Do what you gotta do. Just make sure you save some medication for the people that actually need it.”
A Resurgence of ‘Heroin Chic’
The craze celebrities and influencers have started regarding Ozempic highlights a dynamic shift in beauty standards. The late 2000s has shown a beauty standard of women to be curvier with larger bums highlighted by the BBL. However, this resurgence of a desire for thinness is a move back to the ‘Heroin Chic’ era. Through these ‘trends’ and ‘eras,’ it’s most important to highlight a need to critique the niche and forever changing categories ideal beauty is defined in. One does not need to be thin to be beautiful.
Jacqueline
May 2, 2024 at 8:57 am
Very well reported
The drug should be used for what it was made for.
I’ve seen so much even in the 1960s
people taking LSD Purple hearts Why?
Accept how you are beauty is within.