Use drugs like Ozempic under supervision and with caution, says doctor

It was an evening of insightful conversations and stimulating exchange of ideas at The Hindu’s Lit for Life Dialogue 2025, which witnessed a packed auditorium at the Museum of Art and Photography (MAP) in Bengaluru on Friday.

Following the opening remarks by Suresh Balakrishna, Chief Revenue Officer, The Hindu Group, the first session saw Ambrish Mithal and Shivam Vij, authors of The Weight Loss Revolution, in conversation with fitness expert Shwetambari Shetty. They discussed the issue of drugs such as Ozempic, its uses, abuse, and more.

According to Dr. Ambrish, though Ozempic is used to help overweight patients, especially those who are obese and diabetic, it is unfortunately also being misused as a quick fix to lose weight. The hormones controlling appetite and satiety are altered with the use of this drug, curbing one’s cravings, which is revolutionary.

But a sensible person should take Ozempic under the advise of a doctor and be prepared for minor side effects, he warned. “The best results are seen among those who exercise regularly and follow diets prescribed by experts,” said the doctor.

Role of diet and exercise

Mr. Vij underlined how diet and exercise are vital to one’s health and how medication was not to be used as a substitute. “The dictionary definition of disease is something that prevents normal bodily function, therefore obesity fits the bill,” said the former journalist, who suffered from sleep apnea, knee issues, and other ailments pertaining to his weight, making him an ideal candidate for the drug.

He added that viewing obesity as a disease and not the result of unfettered cravings took away from the stigma attached to Ozempic use.

Mr. Vij’s journey of recovery and use of Ozempic was under the supervision of Dr. Ambrish who said much like every other medicine administered for blood pressure or cholesterol, Ozempic too, has to be a lifelong prescription with dosage gradually tapered to adjust to a person’s health.

The endocrinologist said the minimum period for such a weaning would be at least two years and unregulated or short-term use of the drug would have repercussions in the long run.

“A lifestyle shift with food and exercise is mandatory with the use of Ozempic in one’s weight loss journey; it can’t be momentary,” said Ms. Shetty, emphasising the need for strength training as part of one’s lifestyle. This was reiterated by Dr. Ambrish, who added it had become part of the medical prescription with regard to the treatment for weight loss.

Throughout the session, the panelists stressed Ozempic should be viewed as a support in one’s weight loss programme for health that included high protein and fibre, and exercise.

The event was supported by Amity University (Associate Partner) and Crossword (Bookstore Partner).