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Ozempic for Weight Loss in the Philippines: What You Should Know

Written by Maria Maureen Ablen

Published 03/18/2025

Updated 03/27/2025

Weight loss medications have been gaining attention worldwide, and Ozempic (semaglutide) is one of the most talked-about options today. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, Ozempic has been found to be highly effective for weight loss, leading many people—including Filipinos—to consider it as a potential treatment.

But how does Ozempic work for weight loss? Is it available in the Philippines? What are the risks and benefits? If you’re thinking about using Ozempic to lose weight, here’s everything you need to know.

What Is Ozempic?

Ozempic is an injectable medication that belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. It was originally developed to help people with type 2 diabetes manage blood sugar levels, but during clinical trials, researchers noticed that participants were also losing significant amounts of weight. This led to the approval of higher-dose versions of semaglutide, like Wegovy, for weight management.

The active ingredient, semaglutide, mimics a natural hormone in the body that regulates appetite, making you feel full longer and reducing cravings.

How Does Ozempic Help with Weight Loss?

Ozempic helps with weight loss by slowing digestion and reducing hunger, making it easier to eat less and consume fewer calories. Here’s how it works:

Delays stomach emptying, making you feel full longer after meals.
Reduces appetite by acting on brain receptors that control hunger.
Regulates blood sugar levels, preventing cravings and crashes.
Encourages fat loss rather than muscle loss, especially when paired with a healthy diet and exercise.

A clinical trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that individuals taking semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight over 68 weeks.

Is Ozempic Available in the Philippines?

Yes, Ozempic is available in the Philippines, primarily as a diabetes medication. However, its use for weight loss is considered off-label, meaning that while doctors can prescribe it for weight management, it is not yet officially approved for that purpose by local regulatory bodies.

If you’re interested in using Ozempic for weight loss, you will need to:

Consult a doctor to assess whether Ozempic is right for you.
Obtain a prescription from a licensed physician.
Purchase it from major pharmacies or hospitals that carry GLP-1 medications.

Wegovy, the higher-dose version specifically designed for weight loss, is not yet widely available in the Philippines.

Who Should Consider Ozempic for Weight Loss?

Ozempic may be an option for those who:

Have a BMI of 30 or higher (obese) and struggle to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.
Have a BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol.
Are looking for an alternative to traditional weight loss methods and need additional medical support.

How Is Ozempic Used?

Ozempic is administered as a once-weekly injection under the skin, usually in the stomach, thigh, or upper arm. The dosage is gradually increased to help the body adjust and minimize side effects.

Starting dose: 0.25 mg once weekly for four weeks
Maintenance dose: 0.5 mg once weekly (can be increased to 1 mg if needed)

For weight loss, higher doses (like Wegovy’s 2.4 mg) have been found to be more effective, but since Wegovy is not yet available in the Philippines, some doctors prescribe Ozempic at higher doses for weight management.

How Much Weight Can You Lose with Ozempic?

Weight loss results vary depending on the individual’s starting weight, lifestyle, and adherence to a healthy diet and exercise routine. According to studies:

People taking Ozempic can lose 5-10% of their body weight within 6 months.
Higher doses (as found in Wegovy) can lead to 12-15% weight loss over a year.

A study in Diabetes, Obesity & Metabolism showed that participants who combined Ozempic with lifestyle changes lost more weight than those who relied on diet and exercise alone.

Potential Side Effects of Ozempic

While Ozempic is generally well-tolerated, some people experience side effects, particularly during the first few weeks of treatment. The most common side effects include:

Nausea (most common)
Vomiting or diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Constipation
Mild stomach discomfort

More serious but rare side effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, or kidney issues. If you experience severe stomach pain, yellowing of the skin (jaundice), or persistent vomiting, seek medical attention immediately.

How Much Does Ozempic Cost in the Philippines?

Ozempic is relatively expensive compared to other weight loss options. As of recent reports, the price of Ozempic in the Philippines is around ₱8,000 - ₱12,000 per pen, depending on the dosage and pharmacy. Since it is a weekly injection, monthly costs can range from ₱32,000 - ₱48,000.

Because it is primarily a diabetes medication, most insurance providers do not cover Ozempic for weight loss. However, discounts may be available through hospital programs or pharmaceutical savings plans.

Diet and Lifestyle Considerations While Taking Ozempic

To maximize weight loss while using Ozempic, it’s important to combine it with lifestyle changes. Here’s what works best:

Prioritize protein and fiber to maintain muscle mass and stay full longer.
Reduce refined carbs and sugar to stabilize blood sugar levels.
Stay hydrated to help minimize digestive side effects.
Exercise regularly, including strength training and cardio workouts.

A study in Obesity Science & Practice found that people who combined medication with lifestyle interventions lost more weight and kept it off longer than those who only relied on the drug.

Alternatives to Ozempic for Weight Loss

If Ozempic is not an option due to cost, availability, or side effects, there are other weight loss treatments in the Philippines, including:

Orlistat (Xenical) – Blocks fat absorption in the body.
Phentermine-Topiramate (Qsymia) – Appetite suppressant and metabolism booster.
Saxenda (Liraglutide) – Another GLP-1 medication available for weight loss.

Is Ozempic Worth It for Weight Loss?

Ozempic can be an effective tool for weight loss, especially for individuals struggling with obesity or metabolic conditions. However, it’s not a magic solution—sustainable weight loss still requires healthy eating, regular movement, and long-term commitment.

If you’re considering Ozempic for weight loss in the Philippines, consult a licensed healthcare provider to determine if it’s the right choice for you. Understanding the benefits, risks, and cost will help you make an informed decision about your weight loss journey.

Maria Maureen Ablen

Dr. Maria Maureen Ablen is a board-certified medical professional with a strong background in clinical care, healthcare innovation, and academic research. She is dedicated to advancing health and wellness through evidence-based practice and compassionate care.