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Ozempic Face: What causes it and how to prevent it?

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on Jan 30, 2025.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

Ozempic face refers to the noticeable facial changes seen in some people who lose a significant amount of weight rapidly. This term is often associated with Ozempic because the medication can lead to quick and effective weight loss, making facial changes more noticeable. However, these changes are not a specific side effect of Ozempic but rather a result of significant weight loss.

Most people who take Ozempic will not develop the pronounced features of Ozempic face, but their face may appear slimmer as they lose weight.

What does Ozempic face look like?

Weight loss in the face can result in several noticeable changes, including:

These changes can create a gaunt or aged appearance.

What causes Ozempic face?

Ozempic face is primarily caused by rapid weight loss, not by the medication itself. The contributing factors include:

Ozempic (semaglutide), aids weight loss by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which reduces appetite and increases feelings of fullness. While this leads to effective weight loss, the associated facial changes result from fat reduction and not from the drug itself.

How can you prevent Ozempic face?

Although you cannot completely prevent Ozempic face, there are strategies to minimize its effects:

  1. Gradual weight loss
    • Work with your healthcare provider to lose weight at a slower pace by adjusting your medication dosage if necessary.
  2. Stay hydrated
    • Drink 4 to 8 glasses (1 to 2 liters) of water a day.
  3. Follow a balanced diet
    • Include protein-rich foods like lean meats, fish, eggs, and nuts to support muscle and skin structure.
  4. Use skincare products
    • Apply moisturizers and collagen-boosting products to improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles.
  5. Consider medical treatments
    • If the changes become bothersome, talk to a healthcare provider about:
      • Facial fillers to restore lost volume in areas like the cheeks and under eye hollows
      • Skin-tightening treatments such as radiofrequency or laser therapy to improve elasticity.

Related questions

FAQs about Ozempic Face

1. Can Ozempic face be reversed?

2. Is Ozempic face permanent?

3. Are other medications linked to this?

4. Should I stop taking Ozempic if I notice facial changes?

Key takeaways

Speak with your healthcare provider if you're concerned about Ozempic face or other weight loss effects. They can help you find a balance that supports your overall health and appearance.

References
  • Common side effects. Ozempic.Com https://www.ozempic.com/how-to-take/side-effects.html
  • Wesley N. Facial lipoatrophy with semaglutide-related weight loss. Cutis. February 10, 2023. https://www.mdedge.com/dermatology/article/261159/aesthetic-dermatology/facial-lipoatrophy-semaglutide-related-weight-loss
  • Semaglutide for weight loss - what you need to know. UCLA Health. Jan 12, 2023. https://www.uclahealth.org/news/semaglutide-weight-loss-what-you-need-know
  • Ozempic Prescribing Information. https://www.novo-pi.com/ozempic.pdf

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Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy and Zepbound can all lead to long-term weight loss, but only Wegovy and Zepbound are approved by the FDA for this use. In studies, Zepbound has led to a 21% weight loss in adults using the highest dose, while Wegovy has led to about a 15% weight loss. Continue reading

How long does it take for Ozempic to work?

Your blood glucose (sugar) levels should start to fully decline within the first week after you start using Ozempic (semaglutide) at your regular dose. However, the full effect can take 8 weeks or longer, as this is a long-acting medication that is injected only once per week. Continue reading

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Both Wegovy and Ozempic contain semaglutide, but Wegovy is prescribed for long-term weight management while Ozempic is used to control blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes and help protect kidney function. They both lower the risk for heart-related complications, but they differ in other approved uses, doses, target populations and costs. Continue reading

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