Medical News Today (MNT)What to Know About “Ozempic Face”

Understanding “Ozempic Face”: Implications for Facial Aesthetics in Rapid Weight Loss

Semaglutide, marketed as Ozempic, is a type 2 diabetes medication with off-label usage for weight management that can cause distinct facial side effects known as “Ozempic face.” These changes include sagging, aging, and a loss of facial fullness due to rapid weight loss. The following summary highlights key insights for physicians regarding the identification, management, and potential treatment strategies for these side effects, focusing on maintaining patient quality of life and addressing dermatological concerns.

Key Points

• Ozempic Overview: Manufactured by Novo Nordisk, Ozempic (semaglutide) is an injectable medication for type 2 diabetes, administered once weekly in the thigh, upper arm, or abdomen.
• Facial Side Effects: Known as “Ozempic face,” this condition is characterized by increased signs of aging, sagging skin, and a hollowed-out appearance due to rapid fat loss in the facial area.
• Mechanism of Action: As an incretin mimetic and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, Ozempic enhances insulin release and promotes a feeling of fullness, often leading to rapid weight loss.
• Impact on Skin: Rapid weight loss associated with Ozempic use can reduce skin elasticity and structural integrity, due to decreased collagen and elastin levels.
• Treatment Options: Physicians may consider dose adjustment, switching medications, or suggesting dietary improvements and facial fillers to mitigate facial side effects.
• Potential Severe Side Effects: Beyond facial effects, Ozempic can lead to vision changes, kidney issues, gall bladder disease, severe allergic reactions, increased thyroid cancer risk, hypoglycemia, and pancreatitis.
• Prevention and Management: Adequate hydration, enhanced protein intake, and possibly reducing the dosage are recommended strategies to manage the facial side effects of Ozempic.
• Post-discontinuation Effects: Stopping Ozempic can result in weight regain, increased cravings, and blood sugar spikes.

Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, a cosmetic and celebrity dermatologist, coined the term “Ozempic face” after treating many individuals with this symptom.

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