Weight Loss Injections Ozempic & Wegovy: Revolution Or Overhyped Miracle Cure?

Weight loss injections such as Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy are currently making headlines. Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, they are now experiencing a surge in popularity as so-called miracle drugs for weight reduction.

Social media, fuelled by influencers and celebrities, has accelerated the spread of information about these medications. But how do weight loss injections actually work? Who are they suitable for, and what risks do they pose? A closer look at the facts reveals that these injections can be effective—but only in the right context and under medical supervision.

To shed light on the topic, we spoke with Dr. Katharina Sandtner, the medical director of the health department at Lanserhof Lans, about these so-called miracle injections.

What are weight loss injections and how do they work?

Weight loss injections contain active ingredients that mimic so-called incretins. Incretins are naturally occurring gut hormones that play a crucial role in regulating blood sugar metabolism.

“These gut hormones are also called incretins. They have a significant impact on blood sugar metabolism. The special feature of these medications is that they occupy the body’s own receptors and thus have a long-lasting effect—up to a week.” (Dr. Katharina Sandtner / Lanserhof Lans)

The key effects of weight loss injections:

• Slowed gastric emptying: Food remains in the stomach longer, leading to a prolonged feeling of fullness.
• Reduced appetite: The active ingredients influence the brain’s satiety centre, resulting in less hunger.
• Optimization of blood sugar metabolism: The medications promote insulin secretion, helping transfer sugar from the bloodstream into the cells.

The reason these medications are so effective lies in their long-lasting effects. While naturally occurring gut hormones are active for only a few minutes, the active ingredients in weight loss injections last up to a week. As a result, it is sufficient to inject the medication only once a week.

Approval and off-label use

Originally, weight loss injections were approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. The effect of weight reduction was initially observed as a side effect. Meanwhile, they have also been approved for patients with obesity (BMI ≥ 30) or overweight in combination with comorbidities (e.g., high blood pressure or insulin resistance).

A problematic aspect is the so-called off-label use: In this case, the medications are used without a medical indication—often for purely aesthetic reasons.

“This is almost creating a black market. As a result, type 2 diabetics or severely obese individuals are missing out on an important medication.” (Dr. Katharina Sandtner / Lanserhof Lans)

Since these medications require a prescription and are not yet covered by health insurance, grey areas emerge, posing challenges for both doctors and patients.

What makes weight loss injections so popular?

Weight loss injections are considered revolutionary because they offer a new approach to weight reduction that directly influences biochemical processes in the body. Diets and lifestyle interventions often require long-term commitment, whereas the injections deliver results relatively quickly.

“The mechanism of action of these injections is unique because the body’s own incretins are only active for a few minutes. The medications extend this effect to a full week.” (Dr. Katharina Sandtner / Lanserhof Lans)

However, the expert urges caution:

“As in all areas of medicine, the dose makes the poison. Anything that is done too quickly and without control increases the risk of side effects.”

Side effects and risks of weight loss injections

No medication is free from side effects—and weight loss injections are no exception. The most common issues affect the gastrointestinal tract:

• Nausea
• Feeling of fullness
• Constipation

These symptoms result from delayed gastric emptying, which affects the digestive process.

“The most common side effects are a feeling of fullness, nausea, and constipation. It’s easy to imagine that this is dose-dependent and can strain the gastrointestinal tract.” (Dr. Katharina Sandtner / Lanserhof Lans)

Another phenomenon is the so-called “Ozempic Face”: Due to rapid fat loss, aesthetic changes in the face may occur. This primarily affects connective tissue and collagen breakdown.

Long-term effects are still unclear, as these medications have only been on the market for a few years.

“There is a lack of long-term studies. We do not yet know what the consequences could be in 20 years.” (Dr. Katharina Sandtner / Lanserhof Lans)

Why medical supervision is essential?

Weight loss injections are not a home remedy. They require medical supervision and monitoring. Before starting therapy, laboratory tests must be conducted to detect potential risks early:

• Blood lipid levels
• Liver values
• Pancreatic enzymes

“It’s not just about losing weight but also about managing obesity-related comorbidities.” (Dr. Katharina Sandtner / Lanserhof Lans)

At the same time, therapy should not be viewed in isolation. A comprehensive programme including nutritional counseling, exercise therapy, and lifestyle changes is crucial for long-term success.

Lifestyle changes remain the key to success

Weight Loss injections can be helpful, but they are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle

“The original idea of a treatment is not to lose weight, but to relearn how to eat.” (Dr. Katharina Sandtner / Lanserhof Lans)

Mindful eating, chewing slowly, and timing meals correctly help promote the natural feeling of fullness—without the need for medication.

No miracle cure, but a tool

Weight loss injections offer a promising option for weight reduction—especially for people with obesity or accompanying metabolic disorders. However, they are not a miracle cure and only work effectively as part of a holistic treatment plan.

“The quickest way is often not the right way.” (Dr. Katharina Sandtner / Lanserhof Lans)

Those interested in treatment should consult experienced doctors to make an informed decision. Dietary changes, exercise, and long-term lifestyle changes remain the key components for sustainable success.

The Weight Loss Injection Management programme at Lanserhof Lans

At Lanserhof Lans they take a holistic, medically supervised approach to weight management, ensuring that the benefits of medications such as weight loss drugs (ie Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy amongst others) are maximised while potential side effects are carefully managed.

Unlike conventional weight-loss treatments, Lanserhof Lans' comprehensive Weight Loss Injection Management programme integrates cutting-edge diagnostics, tailored lifestyle interventions, and targeted therapies to support long-term health and sustainable weight loss.