Despite growing public interest, taking prescriptions like Ozempic still carries a certain taboo. Most people are still not comfortable saying they’re on Ozempic, let alone walking into a restaurant and announcing it.
This morning, while driving to work and listening to the radio (yes, some of us still do), I heard an intriguing story: a Dubai restaurant has launched a special menu for guests on Ozempic, featuring scaled-down plates and mini cocktails.
The debate that followed in my head was bigger than just the menu itself. Is this a clever marketing stunt? A step toward normalising conversations around weight loss medications? Or does it risk veering into body shaming?
My first thought was: are we truly open to declaring “I’m on Ozempic” and requesting smaller portions when dining out? (There’s no shame in this, but it is my thought, as everyone around me seems to be very hush-hush about it.)
If you’ve somehow missed the cultural buzz over the past two years, GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy – originally prescribed for people with type 2 diabetes – have surged in popularity for their remarkable weight loss effects. These drugs work by slowing digestion and signalling the brain to create feelings of fullness, which reduces appetite significantly. As a result, many users find themselves eating less and feeling satiated for longer.
However, studies show that the side effects can be intense – some people on these medications feel queasy at the sight of a full plate. Yet despite all the public excitement, the subject remains somewhat taboo. Obesity is still often seen through the lens of personal failure, and weight loss methods that extend beyond diet and exercise tend to draw judgement. Doctors report that even their patients feel hesitant to openly discuss or admit they are using these drugs.
Now, I’m no medical expert, but it’s important to remember that GLP-1 medications come with side effects. From nausea, bloating, burping, and constipation to more serious concerns like thyroid issues, the risks should not be overlooked. Close friends and clinical studies alike have noted these effects.
DISCLAIMER: Esquire Middle East does not promote or endorse the use of these medications. This article is an opinion piece intended to explore the conversation around Ozempic and its social impact.