Demand for weight-loss medications is surging, with over 2 million Americans using semaglutide—a drug developed by Novo Nordisk—in 2021, according to Pew Research Center. Novo Nordisk’s products, including Ozempic Butt, Rybelsus, and Wegovy, which all contain semaglutide, generated around $21.1 billion in revenue in 2023.
As usage of these medications grows, some individuals are experiencing side effects and unexpected changes, such as “Ozempic face” and a phenomenon known as “Ozempic butt.”
What is Ozempic Butt?
“Ozempic butt” describes the wrinkled, loose, and sagging skin some users of weight-loss drugs notice on their buttocks after prolonged use and significant weight loss. This term is not an official medical diagnosis.
Ozempic, which is FDA-approved for treating Type 2 diabetes, contains semaglutide, a synthetic hormone that helps reduce appetite. Its counterpart, Wegovy, is also FDA-approved for treating obesity.
Dr. F. Clarissa Yang, dermatologist-in-chief at Tufts Medical Center, explains that rapid weight loss from these medications can lead to sagging skin around the buttocks, though similar effects can occur with any rapid weight loss.
Novo Nordisk acknowledges the issue but notes that they do not have clinical data specifically addressing the impact of Wegovy or Ozempic on skin sagging. They advise patients experiencing side effects to consult their healthcare providers.
What Causes Ozempic Butt?
Ozempic butt can result from both rapid and substantial weight loss, not just from Ozempic but other weight-loss drugs as well. The sagging occurs because the skin loses its elasticity and collagen, which are essential for its firmness. Dr. Samuel Lin of Harvard Medical School likens this to a balloon losing air, which results in wrinkles and excess material.
Older individuals are particularly susceptible to this issue due to decreased production of collagen and elastin, which are vital for skin elasticity. Dr. Debra Jaliman, a dermatologist at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, notes that younger people generally have more resilient skin that is better able to bounce back.
Effects on Skin and Muscle
Significant weight loss, whether through medication or other means, can impact both skin and muscle. Dr. Yang notes that weight loss can lead to the loss of muscle and bone in addition to fat. Weight-loss drugs can exacerbate muscle loss because they reduce appetite, limiting nutrient intake.
Dr. Iman Saleh from Northwell Health adds that medications like Ozempic can lead to a combined loss of fat and muscle, which may make sagging skin, particularly in the buttocks, more pronounced.
How to Address Ozempic Butt
Although it may not be possible to fully avoid Ozempic butt, some strategies can help minimize its effects. Dr. Jaliman suggests losing weight gradually and monitoring medication dosages to avoid rapid weight loss. Dr. Portela advises aiming for a weight loss rate of 2 to 4 pounds per week to help the skin adjust.
Regular exercise, especially strength training targeting the legs, hips, and buttocks, can also help. Building muscle in these areas can compensate for fat loss and improve overall metabolic health. Additionally, maintaining a nutritionally rich diet that includes adequate protein and essential vitamins and minerals is crucial for supporting skin health and muscle strength.
For further information on managing side effects from weight-loss medications, consult healthcare providers and consider incorporating these preventive measures.
