Ozempic face refers to a side effect of the medication semaglutide (Ozempic), which is primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes.
This term is used to describe the sagging and aging of facial skin caused by rapid weight loss due to the drug. Doctors may suggest lifestyle changes or facial fillers to address these side effects.
Ozempic is an injectable medication, manufactured by Novo Nordisk, that is taken once a week, typically injected into the skin of the thigh, upper arm, or abdomen.
Though it’s prescribed for diabetes, many people use it off-label for weight loss, which has led to a shortage in the United States.
This article discusses the concept of Ozempic face, how the drug affects the face, other potential side effects, and ways to minimize facial changes.
The term Ozempic face was coined by Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, a well-known dermatologist, who observed this side effect in many of his patients.
How Does Ozempic Affect the Face?
Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, belongs to a class of drugs called incretin mimetics, which help the pancreas release insulin when blood sugar levels are elevated.
It also works as a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, which makes people feel fuller and delays stomach emptying, resulting in fewer calories consumed.
While effective in weight loss, Ozempic can cause a rapid reduction in facial fat, leading to the following changes:
- Increased lines and wrinkles
- Loose and sagging skin
- A hollowed-out appearance
- Lipodystrophy (abnormal fat distribution)
Facial fat is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and a youthful appearance.
When lost quickly, it can lead to significant aesthetic changes in the face, as skin loses its ability to retract properly due to reduced collagen and elastin levels.
Other Potential Side Effects of Ozempic
Although Ozempic is generally safe, it can have mild to severe side effects, including:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Flatulence
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Fatigue
- Injection-site reactions
Severe reactions may include:
- Vision changes
- Kidney problems
- Gallbladder disease
- Allergic reactions
- Increased risk of thyroid cancer
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
Preventing Facial Side Effects
People taking Ozempic as prescribed may not be able to prevent facial side effects. However, some measures may help:
- Reducing the dosage
- Switching to another medication
- Drinking 1–2 liters of water daily
- Increasing protein intake
- Using facial fillers
- Implementing lifestyle changes to maintain a healthy weight
If someone stops taking Ozempic, it typically takes about five weeks for the drug to fully leave the system.
What Happens After Stopping Ozempic?
A 2022 study found that stopping semaglutide led to weight regain in many participants. Other effects after stopping the medication may include:
- Increased cravings
- The disappearance of side effects
- Blood sugar spikes
When to Contact a Doctor
If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
Particularly, be aware of the increased risk of thyroid cancer, which has been observed in animal studies but is not yet confirmed in humans.
Symptoms of thyroid issues include:
- Difficulty swallowing
- A lump in the neck
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
- A worsening hoarse voice
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does Ozempic change your face?
Yes, Ozempic can cause rapid weight loss, which may lead to a noticeable reduction of facial fat, giving a gaunt appearance.
What does an Ozempic face look like?
Facial changes can include more lines and wrinkles, loose skin, and a hollowed-out appearance due to fat loss.
Does Ozempic age your face?
Rapid weight loss can cause the skin to lose elasticity, resulting in wrinkles and sagging skin typically associated with aging.
Summary
Ozempic, a medication for type 2 diabetes, is also used off-label for weight loss. However, rapid weight loss from Ozempic can lead to facial side effects, commonly referred to as Ozempic face, including wrinkles and sagging skin.
Doctors may recommend adjustments like reducing the dosage or using facial fillers to address these concerns. If severe side effects occur, it’s essential to consult a doctor.
Stopping the medication may lead to weight regain and other symptoms, such as increased cravings and blood sugar fluctuations.
Always use Ozempic under medical supervision, and discuss any side effects with a healthcare provider.