GLP-1s (Ozempic/Wegovy): The Good, The Bad & The Ugly

Grace
Oct 14
7 min read

Infographic showing the good, bad, and ugly facts about GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy, including cardiovascular benefits, gastrointestinal side effects, and rare pancreatitis risks.

The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of GLP-1 Medications (Ozempic/Wegovy): Facts, Not Hype.

Introduction

In recent years, medications like Ozempic® and Wegovy®—part of a class known as GLP-1 receptor agonists—have captured the world’s attention. From celebrity endorsements to social media “miracle” claims, it can be difficult to tell fact from fiction. The allure of being able to drop excess weight with the pop of a pill has captivated a large group of people.

At Saving Grace Medical Academy, we believe in transparency and education. Our goal is not to sell, but to inform—because understanding what goes into your body is one of the most powerful forms of self-care.

This article explores the good, the bad, and the ugly sides of GLP-1 medications, separating clinical truth from internet trend.

What Are GLP-1s?

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists mimic a natural hormone produced by the body. They:

Stimulate insulin release when blood sugar is high.
Suppress glucagon, which reduces blood sugar.
Slow stomach emptying, helping you feel full longer.
Influence brain centers that regulate appetite and satiety.

Originally designed for Type 2 Diabetes, GLP-1 medications are now approved for chronic weight management and have shown benefits in cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention.

"Yes, Health Canada approved GLP-1 medications for chronic weight management in Canada starting with semaglutide (Wegovy®) in 2021. Other GLP-1 drugs like liraglutide (Saxenda®) are also approved for this purpose. These medications, which mimic the hormone GLP-1, help reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness."

Common brands include Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Rybelsus®, and Trulicity®.

Educational graphic comparing GLP-1 medication’s approved medical uses such as diabetes and cardiovascular risk reduction versus off-label cosmetic weight loss misuse.

⚖️ Intended Use & Manufacturer Disclaimer

According to the manufacturers and Health Canada, Ozempic® (semaglutide injection) is officially approved for adults with Type 2 Diabetes to improve blood sugar control, in combination with diet and exercise, and to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with diabetes and established heart disease.

Wegovy®, which also contains semaglutide, is approved as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) who have at least one weight-related condition such as hypertension, Type 2 Diabetes, or dyslipidemia.

Alberta Obesity Centre

Neither medication is approved as a cosmetic weight loss drug or for short-term use. Their use outside these indications is considered off-label and should only occur under direct medical supervision.

Manufacturer Disclaimer:

“Ozempic® and Wegovy® are prescription medications intended to be used as part of a complete treatment plan, including diet, exercise, and regular medical follow-up. They are not substitutes for healthy lifestyle habits.” — Novo Nordisk A/S, 2025

Nursing Rationale: This distinction helps healthcare professionals and the public understand that these medications were designed for metabolic and cardiovascular management, not rapid aesthetic weight loss. Nurses should reinforce these parameters during patient education and informed consent discussions.

Split graphic comparing social media’s ‘weight loss miracle’ claims about GLP-1 medications with the medical truth that lifestyle changes are required for lasting results.

The Good: Proven Benefits

🫀 1. Reduced Cardiovascular Risk

The SELECT Trial (2023) followed over 17,000 adults with overweight/obesity and cardiovascular disease—but without diabetes. Results showed a 20% reduction in major cardiac events (heart attack, stroke, or cardiac death) in those taking semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic/Wegovy).

Nursing Rationale: For nurses and students, this highlights the evolving role of GLP-1s—not just for glucose control, but as a potential cardioprotective therapy. Patient teaching should emphasize adherence and follow-up cardiovascular monitoring.

⚖️ 2. Effective Weight Loss and Blood Sugar Control

Semaglutide has consistently demonstrated:

Significant A1c reduction (blood sugar control)
Meaningful weight loss (5–15% on average)
Improved markers of metabolic health and quality of life

For individuals with Type 2 Diabetes, this dual benefit can lead to better overall outcomes when combined with lifestyle changes.

Nursing Rationale: Monitor for signs of hypoglycemia when combined with other diabetes medications. Encourage patients to balance dietary intake and avoid skipping meals.

3. Access and Supply in Canada

Health Canada announced in January 2025 that the GLP-1 medication supply had stabilized, allowing more consistent access for patients. However, coverage varies by province and insurance provider—patients should always confirm eligibility before starting therapy.

Infographic showing home care and self-management tips for patients taking GLP-1 medications, including hydration, nutrition, gentle exercise, and symptom tracking.

The Bad: Common Side Effects and Limitations

🤢 1. Gastrointestinal Upset

The most common side effects of GLP-1s include:

Nausea and vomiting
Constipation or diarrhea
Bloating and early fullness
Fatigue or dizziness

These symptoms often appear during dose escalation and usually lessen over time.

Nursing Rationale: Monitor hydration status—prolonged vomiting can lead to acute kidney injury (AKI). Educate patients on slow titration and dietary adjustments.

👁️ 2. Retinopathy Concerns

In the SUSTAIN-6 Trial, semaglutide users with diabetes experienced a slight increase in retinopathy complications. Researchers believe this was linked to rapid blood sugar improvement, not direct drug toxicity.

Nursing Rationale: Encourage baseline and ongoing eye exams, particularly for patients with a history of diabetic retinopathy.

🩺 3. Surgical and Anesthesia Considerations

Because GLP-1s slow stomach emptying, there is an increased risk of regurgitation or aspiration during anesthesia. Updated 2024 guidelines recommend:

Most patients can continue therapy before routine procedures
Those with GI symptoms or on higher doses may need to pause the medication under medical supervision

Nursing Rationale: Pre-operative assessment should include medication review and fasting instructions specific to GLP-1 use.

Educational nursing infographic summarizing GLP-1 medication mechanism of action, nursing assessments, ethical considerations, and patient teaching points.

The Ugly: Risks and Misconceptions

⚠️ 1. Serious but Rare Complications

Though uncommon, serious side effects include:

Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
Gallbladder disease
Acute kidney injury from dehydration
Ileus (bowel obstruction)
- Ileus - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf
Possible thyroid C-cell tumors in animal studies

GLP-1s are not recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) or MEN2 syndrome.

🧪 2. Counterfeit and Compounded Versions

The U.S. FDA and Health Canada have warned about illegitimate compounded GLP-1 medications being sold online. These may contain incorrect dosages or contaminated substances.

Nursing Rationale: Educate patients to only obtain prescriptions from licensed healthcare providers and pharmacies.

💭 3. Social Media Misinformation

From TikTok “before-and-after” videos to celebrity claims, many posts oversimplify or exaggerate GLP-1 effects. While weight loss may occur, these drugs are not “miracle cures.” They require consistent monitoring, lifestyle adjustments, and long-term commitment.

Nursing Rationale: Encourage critical thinking and evidence-based research. Remind patients that each body responds differently.

💬 4. The “Weight Loss Miracle” Myth

Over the past two years, Ozempic® and Wegovy® have been promoted on social media as “weight loss miracles”—a quick fix to drop pounds fast. While these medications do lead to significant weight reduction for many users, the underlying science shows that this benefit is temporary without sustained lifestyle and nutritional changes.

In the short term, users may experience rapid weight loss, largely due to appetite suppression and reduced calorie intake. However, this can also lead to loss of lean muscle mass, fatigue, and nutrient deficiencies if dietary quality isn’t maintained.

Long-term side effects of prolonged use can include:

Gallbladder disease (from rapid weight loss or bile imbalance)
Pancreatitis (inflammation from digestive enzyme disruption)
Possible bowel motility issues (chronic constipation, delayed gastric emptying)
Thyroid C-cell changes in animal studies (though not proven in humans)
Emotional and psychological dependency—patients may associate worth or control with continued use

When patients stop taking GLP-1s, the body typically rebounds by increasing appetite, regaining lost weight (sometimes even more), and readjusting metabolism back to baseline. This phenomenon is known as metabolic compensation—the body’s natural defense against calorie restriction.

Nursing Rationale: Educating patients about these physiological responses is vital. Emphasize sustainable nutrition, gradual lifestyle changes, and realistic goals rather than relying solely on medication for long-term success.

Home Treatment & Self-Care Tips

Start low, go slow: Gradually increase doses under supervision.
Eat small, protein-rich meals: Avoid high-fat foods that worsen nausea.
Stay hydrated: Electrolyte drinks can prevent dehydration during GI symptoms.
Move regularly: Gentle exercise helps reduce constipation and improves energy.
Track changes: Log weight, appetite, glucose readings, and side effects.
Red flags: Seek immediate medical care for severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or vision changes.

What You’re Not Being Told About Ozempic & Wegovy, featuring educational summaries of benefits, side effects, intended use, and nursing guidance from Saving Grace Medical Academy.

For Nursing Students: Key Learning Points

Concept	Explanation
Mechanism of Action	GLP-1 receptor agonists enhance insulin secretion, suppress glucagon, and slow gastric emptying.
Clinical Relevance	Reduces A1c, supports weight management, and lowers cardiovascular risk.
Common Nursing Assessments	Monitor hydration, GI symptoms, and blood glucose.
Ethical Consideration	Ensure patients are informed about risks vs. benefits before starting therapy.
Patient Education Focus	Encourage adherence, follow-up care, and balanced expectations.

Final Thoughts

GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy represent one of the most impactful medical advances of the decade—but not without risks.

They can save lives, improve quality of life, and reduce cardiovascular events, yet misuse, misinformation, and social pressure can lead to harm.

At Saving Grace Medical Academy, we stand for education over advertising—because informed decisions lead to safer, healthier communities.

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