‘Ozempic face’: Folks using diabetes drug to lose weight claim it has this weird side effect

Ozempic is supposed to be used for diabetes. Some are using it to lose weight with one weird side effect. (Dreamstime/TNS)
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Ozempic has had its share of headlines of late because the diabetes medication is being used by many to lose weight.

It’s why there is reportedly a shortage of the drug.

But, like with just about everything else it seems, it all can’t be good.

So, “Ozempic Face” has been trending this week, and that, it seems, is the other side of the coin when it comes to using the drug.

What is “Ozempic Face?”

Well, people using the drug, claim it makes their face looked aged.

That said, it’s not all the drug’s fault. In fact, Joshua Zeichner, the director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, explained to the New York Times what is actually happening.

Folks are losing weight, causing their face to appear skinnier.

“Weight loss, whether it is from diet, exercise, surgery or a medication takes a toll on your face,” he said. “Fat in the face helps us maintain a naturally youthful appearance. When you lose facial fat, the face often appears gaunt and skeletonized. Especially in people who lose large amounts of weight, the face can appear significantly older.”

So, for folks who were obese prior to taking the drug, “Ozempic Face,” can be more of an issue.

Can it be fixed?

Well, according to one report, that’s tricky.

“Not that much can be done about the loss of fat in your face while your are losing weight " Christoph Buettner, M.D., Ph.D, chief in the division of endocrinology at the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School said. “But it is good to keep hydrated, as dehyrdrated skin can appear dull and wrinkles may be more pronounced.”

The report said some folks may also look to injectable fillers or microfrequency facials which can tighten the skin.

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