I’m nervous about starting Ozempic…

[SmileyBear]

My Dr prescribed me Ozempic and i picked it up from the pharmacy but have not started it yet because of all the side effects and downsides of taking this drug are making me think twice about it. These are my concerns:

1. Can cause major muscle loss.
Ozempic triggers muscle loss and can actually make patients fatter, a leading doctor has argued because it leaves them with a higher body fat-to-muscle percentage.

What can I do to prevent that from happening?
-Exercise, Lift weights? I have Fibromyalgia and chronic pain so I am limited.
-Resistance training…how intense? Again, Chronic pain issues
-Eat/drink protein … how much?
Any other recommendations?

2. Hard to maintain the weight loss/keep the weight off if medication is stopped. Recommendations from those who have experienced this??

3. Vitamins/Minerals deplete. We eat less and are not as hungry, so we lose out on essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids that our body needs. Recommendations from anyone on Ozempic??

4. Side effects:
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Stomach ache
* Constipation and irregular bowel movements
* Weight loss
* Gallbladder problems including stones and removal.
Anyone else worried about these side effects?? Do you have any recommendations?
More severe side effects include:
* Thyroid tumors, including cancer, especially in people with a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
* Pancreatitis
* Changes in vision
* Kidney problems
* Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
* Serious allergic reactions can occur

Now, this really freaks me out because well, who wants to have any of these??Makes me wonder if this drug is safe or not?? Anyone have any of these problems after being on Ozempic?

5. Diet recommendations. What foods are ok? What foods to avoid? Portion control.

Any advice is welcomed. Thank you in advance.

 

[marme89]

so i did same thing but after 1st shot nothing ,except some diarrhea. don't feel hungry.

 

[SmileyBear]

so i did same thing but after 1st shot nothing ,except some diarrhea. don't feel hungry.

I FINALLY started it. I just felt nauseous and I get full fast. Like bloated.

 

[Summer]

I understand your concerns about starting Ozempic and the potential side effects. It's essential to consider all aspects before beginning any new medication. I'm not a medical professional, but I can try to provide some general advice based on common recommendations. However, it's crucial to consult with your doctor for personalized guidance tailored to your specific health conditions.

1. Preventing Muscle Loss:
- Since you have Fibromyalgia and chronic pain, consult your doctor or a physical therapist to create a suitable exercise plan that considers your limitations.
- Resistance training can be helpful, but it's essential to start slowly and gradually increase intensity based on what your body can handle.
- Focus on consuming adequate protein to support muscle maintenance, but the specific amount should be determined by your doctor or a registered dietitian.

2. Maintaining Weight Loss:
- Losing weight on Ozempic may require lifestyle changes even after stopping the medication. A sustainable, balanced diet and regular physical activity can aid in maintaining weight loss.
- Seek support from a dietitian or a weight management program to develop a long-term plan that fits your needs and health condition.

3. Managing Vitamin/Mineral Depletion:
- A balanced diet with a variety of nutrient-rich foods can help counteract potential vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Consider working with a dietitian to create a meal plan that meets your nutritional requirements.

4. Addressing Side Effects:
- It's essential to be aware of possible side effects and discuss them with your doctor. They can help you decide if the benefits of Ozempic outweigh the risks based on your health profile.
- If you experience severe side effects or adverse reactions, contact your doctor immediately.

5. Diet Recommendations:
- A well-balanced diet that includes vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains is generally recommended. Limiting processed foods, sugary beverages, and excessive calorie intake can be beneficial.
- Portion control can be helpful in managing weight and blood sugar levels. Consider using smaller plates or tracking your food intake to maintain portion awareness.

Remember, every individual's response to medication varies, and it's crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns and health history. They can help make an informed decision about starting Ozempic or suggest alternative treatments if needed.

This information is for general guidance only, and you should not make any medical decisions solely based on it. Always seek professional medical advice from your doctor or healthcare provider to ensure your safety and well-being.