Ozempic and Eating Disorders: A Clinical Perspective

As eating disorder specialists, we’ve received numerous questions about Ozempic and eating disorders from both current and prospective clients. 

It’s no secret that the use of GLP-1 medications is on the rise (the ads are everywhere) – which means we need to have a nuanced discussion about their implications for eating disorder treatment and recovery.

Heads up: This post is for informational purposes only and isn’t meant to replace professional medical advice. Always chat with your healthcare team about any medical decisions.

The Rise of Ozempic: Medical Benefits and Weight Loss Applications

GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic were initially developed and approved for treating Type 2 diabetes. These medications have shown remarkable effectiveness in regulating insulin levels, making them valuable tools for managing diabetes and conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). 

However, their effects on weight loss have led to widespread off-label use, which raises several questions about their role in our complex relationship with food and body image.

Ozempic and Eating Disorders: Clinical Considerations

The therapists and dietitians at Grow With Gabi do not prescribe medications, but we do provide support and guidance for clients who are prescribed these medications by their medical providers. 

When talking about meds with our clients, we stay committed to bodily autonomy and personal choice. While we welcome and support clients who are taking GLP-1 medications, we believe it’s essential to have open, honest conversations about how these medications might impact eating disorder recovery.

Research is still emerging about how these medications affect people’s relationships with food and body over time. While we have some understanding of their short-term effects, the long-term impacts are still being studied.

Additionally, there’s limited research exploring how GLP-1 medications interact with eating disorder recovery, with most current studies focused primarily on Binge Eating Disorder (BED).

Impact on Intuitive Eating and Recovery

One of our main concerns about using Ozempic is its effect on bodily awareness. These medications can significantly affect hunger and fullness cues – signals that are crucial to rebuild during eating disorder recovery. The common digestive side effects can also make your relationship with food and your eating patterns feel more complicated.

This disruption of natural hunger and fullness signals may get in the way of the essential work of reconnecting with your body’s internal cues. While medication can help manage certain symptoms, it doesn’t address the underlying psychological aspects of eating disorders that require attention and healing.

Long-Term Considerations and Weight Cycling

Research consistently shows that weight regain is common once people discontinue GLP-1 medications. This pattern of weight cycling can be particularly challenging for individuals with a history of eating disorders, potentially triggering or exacerbating disordered eating behaviors and thoughts.

The relationship between Ozempic and eating disorders becomes even more complex when we consider the limited research on long-term health impacts, particularly for individuals using these medications primarily for weight loss rather than medical conditions like diabetes.

Our Therapeutic Approach

As your recovery team, we’re not here to make judgments or dictate choices about medication use. Instead, we aim to:

• Create a safe space to explore your relationship with food and body
• Discuss the intentions behind medication use
• Address potential concerns and side effects
• Support you in making informed decisions aligned with your recovery goals
• Help you develop sustainable strategies for long-term wellbeing

Whether you’re currently taking Ozempic, considering it, or simply seeking to understand its implications for eating disorder recovery, we’re here to support you with evidence-based eating disorder treatment and compassionate care that honors your individual needs and choices.

Remember: There is no one-size-fits-all approach to recovery. Our role is to help you navigate these decisions while staying focused on developing a healthy, sustainable relationship with food and your body.

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If you’re struggling with decisions about Ozempic and eating disorders, or have questions about how these medications might impact your recovery, we’re here to help. Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our specialized eating disorder therapists.