Medical Minute: Weight Loss Drugs Effective But Carry Risks, Experts Warn

Weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy have gained popularity for their ability to help users shed pounds, but medical experts caution they come with potential side effects.

Dr. Snyder says these drugs can be highly effective when combined with lifestyle changes, with studies showing users losing up to 16% of their body fat.

“I am a huge fan of the appropriate use of them,” Dr. Snyder said.

However, side effects range from mild to severe. Common issues include nausea and worsening reflux. More serious risks include pancreatitis, low blood sugar, allergic reactions, kidney and gallbladder problems, stomach paralysis, and thyroid tumors or cancer.

Another concern is "Ozempic face," a condition associated with sagging skin and signs of aging.

“Are the medications the cause, or are they potentially an aggravating factor on a baseline issue?” Dr. Snyder asked.

A recent study suggests semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, may increase the risk of a rare eye condition called NAION, which can lead to blindness.

Overweight or obese individuals using semaglutide were seven times more likely to develop NAION, though researchers note the condition is rare and the link requires further study.

Ozempic and Wegovy work by affecting hunger centers in the brain and slowing stomach emptying, helping users control cravings.

“These drugs are often taken for life,” Dr. Snyder said.

Researchers say more studies are needed to fully understand the long-term risks of these medications.