Sharon Osbourne is offering a word of caution to individuals as she opens up about her weight loss journey, revealing that she now weighs less than 100 pounds due to her use of the medication semaglutide.
In an interview with the Daily Mail, the 71-year-old shared that she began taking the FDA-approved medication, known as Ozempic, in December. While it is typically used for type 2 diabetes, it is also used off-label for weight loss. Osbourne expressed concern about the potential dangers, particularly for teenagers, stating, “I’ve been off it for a while now, but my warning is don’t give it to teenagers, it’s just too easy.” She emphasized that the rapid weight loss can become addictive and pose serious risks. Osbourne herself has lost 42 pounds and expressed worry about losing any more weight, stating, “I know I look gaunt … I’m too gaunt and I can’t put any weight on. I want to, because I feel I’m too skinny. I’m under 100 pounds and I don’t want to be.”
Osbourne is not the first public figure to express reservations about using the injectable medication. Golnesa “GG” Gharachedaghi from the reality show Shahs of Sunset also shared her experience with semaglutide on Instagram. Gharachedaghi revealed that she had lost more weight than anticipated and decided to cut back on her dosage to maintain her current weight.
Dr. Priya Jaisinghani, a clinical assistant professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine specializing in obesity medicine, explains that the primary goal of this treatment is to prevent or improve weight-related complications such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. She emphasizes the importance of determining an individual’s safe rate of weight loss in collaboration with a healthcare provider.
Jaisinghani advises that a clinically significant weight loss is typically defined as losing 5 to 10% of total body weight. Gradual and steady weight loss of one to two pounds per week is generally considered safe. Gharachedaghi’s reported weight loss of just over 20% raises concerns about the rapidity of her transformation. However, precise details regarding Osbourne’s weight loss are not provided.
While the medication has faced criticism and stigma regarding its off-label use, Osbourne has been candid about her experience. She believes in being truthful about herself and does not pretend to have found a religious awakening. Osbourne acknowledges that she is who she is and finds it challenging to maintain a facade.
It is worth noting that lifestyle changes should accompany any weight loss intervention, including medication, to ensure long-term success. Rapid or excessive weight loss can lead to health complications such as hair loss, muscle loss, and malnutrition. Conversely, when discontinuing weight loss interventions, there is always a risk of weight regain.
Overall, Osbourne’s journey serves as a reminder to approach weight management with caution and to seek guidance from healthcare professionals to determine the best course of action.
