Semaglutide, the underlying drug marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy, works by mimicking a hormone that triggers the body to feel full. When the drug interacts with a receptor in the stomach, patients feel full sooner and for a longer period of time after eating. The drug does not cause weight loss directly – instead, it makes you want to eat less.

Originally approved to help with excess weight and obesity, Wegovy and Ozempic, have become synonymous with weight loss fads. Here's what you need to know.

While Ozempic is rising in popularity, experts say the drug is not designed or approved for weight loss. (Oct. 3, 2024)