Individuals who have experienced weight loss while using the diabetes medication Ozempic have reported a significant change in their daily interactions.
Although Ozempic is primarily prescribed for type 2 diabetes management, it has gained popularity for its weight loss effects in recent years.
The active component in Ozempic, a GLP-1 agonist known as semaglutide, aids the body in insulin production when necessary and reduces liver glucose production, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels.
It also slows down digestion, promoting a feeling of fullness for an extended period, which can lead to weight loss.
Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic, has consistently reiterated that the medication is intended specifically for diabetes management.
For weight loss, alternative medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy are available.
Research conducted by Eli Lilly, the producer of Mounjaro, showed that after 72 weeks, participants on Mounjaro experienced a 20 percent reduction in body weight, while those on Wegovy saw a 14 percent decrease. The study included 750 obese individuals with an average weight of 113 kilograms (about 18 stone).
Regardless of the reasons for taking the medication, those who have lost weight have noticed a shift in their day-to-day treatment.
A Reddit discussion in the r/Ozempic community brought up the concept of ‘pretty privilege’.
This term refers to an unearned societal advantage granted to those who meet cultural beauty standards.
One user questioned: “Anyone else getting treated *very* differently in public?”
They elaborated: “Having lost over 70 pounds, I’m now receiving free items at restaurants, gas stations, and fast food outlets where I was never offered such things before.
“It’s surprising to see people holding doors for me, but why am I getting free stuff? While I’m grateful, the sudden change is a bit disconcerting.”
A man who shed 40 kilograms also noted a change in how others perceive him.
“It confirmed the reality of pretty privilege,” he commented. “I often get away with just saying ‘sorry’ nowadays. While I’m generally conscientious, when I need some leeway or have selfish reasons, I’m more successful.”
He viewed this positively, stating, “I consider this one of the ‘rewards’ for reaching my goals. You deserve it!”
However, not everyone agreed with this perspective on ‘privilege’.
Another woman who transitioned from a ‘chubby size 12’ to a ‘very toned and curvy size 8’ in her 20s shared: “The difference in treatment when I was thinner was shocking. It was painful and affected my mindset for a while.
“The most challenging part was noticing people I had known for years treating me better when I was slim.”
Adding to the conversation, another user said: “Previously, I felt a need to demonstrate my intelligence; after conversations, people would see I was capable and warm up to me.
“Now, I receive that warmth instantly. People assume competence without needing proof.
“I enjoy it, as it’s nice to be perceived without judgment, but it saddens me for my past self.”