Can Ozempic Cause Joint Pain: Side Effects, Treatment, and More

Ozempic is prescribed to help people with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar levels, and it may also be used to help people with obesity lose weight

February 13, 2023
Updated on
April 8, 2024

GLP-1 agonists work by stimulating the release of insulin, which helps lower blood sugar levels, and by decreasing the production of glucagon, which helps reduce the production of sugar by the liver. They also slow down digestion and reduce appetite, which can lead to weight loss.

Ozempic for type 2 diabetes

Can ozempic cause joint pain? 

Studies have shown that Ozempic can be effective at helping people with obesity and type 2 diabetes lose weight. In one study, people with obesity who took Ozempic lost an average of 9.7% of their body weight after one year of treatment, while those taking a placebo lost only 1.4%. Other studies have found similar results.

If you are considering using Ozempic for weight loss, it is important to discuss this with your doctor to determine if it is appropriate for you and can ozampic cause joint pain for you and to determine the appropriate dosage.

Can ozempic cause joint pain?

Wegovy as a weight loss drug

Wegovy is a brand of injectable medication that contains semaglutide, a type of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It is prescribed as a treatment for adults with type 2 diabetes to improve blood sugar control, but it may also have the potential as a weight loss treatment. Some studies have shown that Wegovy can lead to significant weight loss in people with obesity, even without making changes to diet or exercise habits.

Wegovy is administered as an injection under the skin (subcutaneously) once weekly. It is available as a prefilled pen in a dose of 2.4 mg. It is important to follow the dosing instructions provided by your healthcare provider, as the appropriate dose and frequency of administration will depend on your individual needs and medical history.

Wegovy as a weight loss drug

Ozempic and Wegovy anti-inflammatory effects

There are a number of weight loss drugs that have anti-inflammatory effects. These drugs may be used as a treatment for obesity, a condition that is often associated with chronic inflammation.

One class of weight loss drugs that has anti-inflammatory effects is the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. These medications, which include drugs such as Ozempic (semaglutide) and Wegovy (semaglutide), are primarily used as a treatment for type 2 diabetes, but they may also have potential as a weight loss treatment. Some studies have shown that GLP-1 receptor agonists can lead to significant weight loss in people with obesity, and they may also have anti-inflammatory effects that could be beneficial for people with conditions such as heart disease or arthritis.

Role of Diet in Worsening Ozempic Side effects 

High-fat foods may also exacerbate common side effects of Ozempic, including nausea. If you experience nausea, stomach pain, constipation, vomiting, and diarrhea while taking Ozempic, talk to your healthcare provider about avoiding high-fat foods to reduce these side effects.

Some studies have shown that GLP-1 receptor agonists can reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity, which may help to reduce pain and improve mobility in people with arthritis. 

Role of Diet in Worsening Ozempic Side effects

If you are interested in using a medication to help with weight loss, it is important to discuss your options with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach for you. Consult with a provider at Mochi Health for further guidance. 

Ozempic (generic name: semaglutide) is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists. It is prescribed to help people with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar levels, and it may also be used to help people with obesity lose weight. See if you're eligible here.

Dr. Eva Shelton, M.D.

Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital

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