The rise ofOzempic, a diabetes drug turnedweight loss phenomenon, has been a recurrent topic of discussion ever since its popularity exploded in the latter half of 2022.
Dubbed “the worst-kept secret in Hollywood,” it has significantly altered the way body positivityis portrayedin the entertainment industry.
Celebrities whowere once celebratedfor promoting body diversity, such as Lizzo andMindy Kaling, are nownoticeably slimmer, sparking concerns from critics who believe thatharmful beauty standardsare making a comeback.
HighlightsOzempic’s rise in Hollywood sparks debate over beauty standards' shift.Critics fear Ozempic may promote harmful beauty standards in the industry.Mental health effects of Ozempic, like mood swings and depression, under scrutiny.Experts urge prioritizing mental health and natural solutions over weight-loss drugs.
People Also AskWhat are the long-term side effects of using Semaglutide?Clinical trials have reported side effects such as pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, kidney injury, retinal problems, appendicitis, and increased risk of thyroid cancer.Will you regain weight after discontinuing Semaglutide?Studies have shown that individuals often regain a significant portion of the weight they lost due to the medication unless they make lifestyle changes.
What are the long-term side effects of using Semaglutide?Clinical trials have reported side effects such as pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, kidney injury, retinal problems, appendicitis, and increased risk of thyroid cancer.
Will you regain weight after discontinuing Semaglutide?Studies have shown that individuals often regain a significant portion of the weight they lost due to the medication unless they make lifestyle changes.
“An important conversation is emerging about the effects of [these compounds] on mental health,” said Pamela Madsen, clinical director of Sea Change Psychotherapy.
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Hollywood’s “Ozempic craze” is worrying experts who believe it’s promoting harmful beauty standards
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“We’re entering this weird era, anOzempic era, and just celebrating thinness,” said Hunter McGrady, the cover model of the 2024 anniversary edition ofSports Illustrated Magazine.
In her interview, the modeltalked abouthow she felt theimpact of the medication in her field,and expressed concern for the future ofbody-positivity.
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Ozempic,and associated brands such as Wegovy and Rybelsus,containSemaglutide, a compound originally designed asanti-diabetic medication, helpingpatients control their blood sugar levels.
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The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) unanimously approved the compoundto be usedfor the treatment of type 2 diabetes in October 2017.It remained that way for close to four years, with Ozempic being the first brand approved and others later joining.
However, inJune 2021, the FDA made the controversial but profitable decision to approve a higher-dose, injectable version ofWegovyas an anti-obesity medication for long-term weight management in adults.
Ozempic’s popularity has pushed psychologists to put the mental health effects of the drug under scrutiny
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Since then, Ozempicbecameone of the most profitable drugsonthe market, so much so that its manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, has become Europe’s most valuable company, with a market value thatexceedsthe Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of its home country, Denmark.
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According to Dr. Madsen, the mental effects of the drug are “increasinglycoming under scrutiny,” with users reporting mood swings, anxiety, and depressive symptoms while taking Semaglutide.
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“Food is deeply tied to emotional regulation for many people. When appetiteis suppressed, some individuals may feel emotionally disconnected or struggle with unresolved emotional distress,” she explained in anarticlepublished in early February.
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Madsen also warned against the effects Ozempic might have on brain chemistry andmetabolic health—afact that Novo Nordisk itselfacknowledges on itswebsite.
Official informationnotes concerning side effects, including thyroid tumors, cancer, pancreas and kidney problems, vision problems, and potential dangers still not accounted for in pregnant women.
Some celebrities have praised Semaglutide as a “miracle drug” for weight loss despite its many side effects
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For the psychologist, one of the most concerning aspects of the growing popularity of the drug and its presence in thecelebrity worldis that it may reinforce harmful beliefs in people suffering from self-esteem issues.
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For instance, Oprah Winfrey confessed to taking the weight-loss drug in December 2023. Labeling it as a “gift,” she explained she uses it to “manage not yo-yo-ing” due to having a “predisposition no amount of willpower is going to control.”
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Actress and host Whoopi Goldberg called Semaglutide a “wonderful shot” and sung its praises after using it despite stating that weight has “never been an issue” for her.
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Other celebrities who have confessed to having used the medication for weight loss purposes include Sharon Osbourne,Amy Schumer, Heather Gay, Chelsea Handler, Petti Stanger, James Corden, and Elon Musk.
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“Many people who turn to weight-loss medications have longstanding struggles with food, self-worth, and emotional pain—often stemming from past trauma or emotional abuse,” Madsen wrote.
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While the psychologist was not entirely against the use of Ozempic, she stressed that people considering using it should “prioritize mental health alongside physical health” and put self-compassion at the forefront.
“If you are experiencing emotional numbness, depression, or anxiety while taking these medications, seeking mental health support is crucial.
Experts urged people who don’t need Ozempic for medical reasons to be more patient with themselves and prefer natural, long-term solutions
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“Self-care should extend beyond weight management,” Madsen explained.
“Prioritize activities that nurture mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, such as joyful movement and expressive activities.”
“Taking shortcuts can be very tempting, not only to lose weight but also to put on muscle,” personal trainer Franco Betancourt explained toBored Panda.
“It stems from social media and the pressure people feel to look perfect immediately,” he added.
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“The harsh reality is that proper physical health is the result of habits and sustainable results can only be maintained through discipline and, most importantly, patience.”
For the trainer, exercise and diet start having positive effects way before they are noticeable in terms of weight.
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“Physical activity has immediate, positive effects on the brain,” he explained. “It boosts dopamine, serotonin, and other chemicals. It reduces stress hormones and improves focus.”
While it may take longer, the trainer urged people to prioritize exercise and dieting over weight-loss drugs unless strictly necessary, as it creates sustainable results that are easier to keep over time.
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