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Ozempic for insulin resistance: What research shows

Insulin resistance is related to Alzheimer’s, PCOS, and more, but Ozempic might help
Gerardo Sison medical writer headshot
By | Mar. 21, 2024
An Ozempic pen: Ozempic for insulin resistance

Key takeaways

  • Ozempic, containing semaglutide, is mainly used for treating Type 2 diabetes and is being studied for its potential in treating insulin resistance in conditions like PCOS and fatty liver disease.

  • Clinical studies indicate that Ozempic can reduce insulin resistance, showing promise for improving outcomes in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, Alzheimer’s disease, polycystic ovary syndrome, and lung diseases.

  • The FDA-approved dosage for Type 2 diabetes starts at 0.25 milligrams (mg) weekly, potentially increasing to 2 mg, but dosages for insulin resistance are not officially established.

  • Ozempic offers benefits such as weight management and reduced risk of cardiovascular events. Drawbacks may include potentially high treatment costs and serious health risks like pancreatitis and thyroid tumors.  

In this article:

Ozempic has become a popular medication for managing Type 2 diabetes, with its active ingredient also being approved for weight loss under the brand name Wegovy. At its core, Ozempic is a brand name for the drug semaglutide, which works by mimicking a hormone that helps lower glucose (blood sugar) levels and increases insulin secretion. As a once-weekly injection, this medication can help improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes. 

Studies are also finding that Ozempic could potentially be used to address insulin resistance in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and fatty liver disease. Insulin resistance occurs when the body’s cells don’t respond well to insulin, making it difficult to control blood sugar levels. Over time, this problem may contribute to metabolic syndrome, certain cancers, and even Alzheimer’s disease. 

Read on to learn more about the potential benefits of Ozempic for insulin resistance. 

Clinical studies on Ozempic’s effectiveness for insulin resistance

Ozempic has not been officially approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat insulin resistance. However, various clinical trials have shown promising results for Ozempic in reducing insulin resistance and, as a result, improving outcomes for the following associated conditions and diseases. 

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis 

In a recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, researchers found that semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, was more effective than a placebo in helping patients with a liver condition called nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). They discovered that 59% of patients who took a higher dose of semaglutide saw their liver condition improve, compared with only 17% of those who took the placebo. Also, people who took semaglutide lost more weight, around 13% of their body weight, while those on placebo lost only 1%. This shows that semaglutide might be a helpful treatment for NASH, as it may help with insulin resistance, a common cause and consequence of the condition.

Alzheimer’s disease

Recent clinical studies have shown promising results regarding semaglutide for Alzheimer’s disease. Semaglutide targets insulin resistance, a condition often linked to diabetes and now understood to be linked to an increased risk of dementia. In studies conducted by Novo Nordisk, semaglutide demonstrated a significant 53% reduction in the risk of developing dementia in individuals with Type 2 diabetes. These findings have spurred further research, with ongoing clinical trials set to conclude in October 2026.

Polycystic ovary syndrome

Semaglutide has shown positive outcomes in a recent study involving women who have obesity and PCOS who didn’t benefit from lifestyle changes alone. After three months of weekly semaglutide injections, nearly 80% achieved at least a 5% reduction in body weight. Not only did their weight decrease, but they experienced lower fasting insulin levels and better HOMA-IR scores, indicating improved insulin sensitivity. 

Lung diseases

According to the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, insulin resistance is common among people with severe asthma and is associated with decreased lung function. In a large study involving over 77,000 people, it was discovered that GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide could lower the risk of respiratory diseases by 14%. These findings suggest that using Ozempic for insulin resistance can improve outcomes for lung conditions like pulmonary edema and bronchitis. Its ability to help people lose weight could also make breathing easier as pressure as less weight means less pressure on the lungs so they can more easily expand during breathing.

While these studies show evidence that Ozempic may improve insulin resistance and subsequent outcomes of related conditions, more research is needed. However, we could potentially see FDA approvals for these conditions in the future. 

Dosage and usage of Ozempic for insulin resistance

Ozempic is an injectable prescription medicine that is meant to be used alongside diet and exercise for blood sugar control. It is given as a once-weekly injection, with the dosage gradually increased to minimize side effects. 

There is no official dosage for insulin resistance since it is not approved for that purpose. However, some studies suggest that Ozempic may be effective for insulin resistance at a dosage of 0.5 mg weekly, depending on the condition being treated. 

The FDA-approved dosage of Ozempic for Type 2 diabetes is as follows:

Starting dose:

  • 0.25 mg once a week for the first four weeks

Maintenance dose:

  • After the initial month, the dose is typically increased to 0.5 mg once a week.
  • Based on the individual’s needs and doctor’s assessment, the dosage may further increase up to 2 mg once weekly.

Always inspect the solution in the Ozempic pen to ensure it’s clear and colorless. Inject the dose under the skin (subcutaneously) of the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. Always consult a healthcare provider for the appropriate dosage, and closely follow their instructions for maximum safety and effectiveness, especially if you’re using the medication off-label for a condition other than diabetes. 

RELATED: Where and how to inject Ozempic

Benefits of Ozempic for managing insulin resistance

Managing insulin resistance and blood sugar levels with Ozempic could have several benefits. By regulating blood sugar levels, Ozempic could help improve other aspects of health, including weight management and heart health.

Weight management and insulin sensitivity

Ozempic may help support weight management efforts, which is important for those with insulin resistance. Patients often see weight loss as a benefit because carrying less weight can improve insulin sensitivity, meaning the body can use insulin more effectively to lower blood sugar levels.

Reduced risk of major cardiovascular events

For people with Type 2 diabetes, managing blood sugar is only part of the challenge. Ozempic has been linked to a reduced risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes. In addition to treating Type 2 diabetes, Ozempic has been approved to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in people with both Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.  

Protection against kidney disease

Managing blood sugar levels with Ozempic may help protect kidney function. High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to diabetic nephropathy, a serious complication of diabetes. By improving blood sugar control, Ozempic may help reduce kidney problems, potentially slowing the progression of kidney disease and decreasing the risk of kidney failure.

Reduction in risk of nerve damage 

Diabetic neuropathy, characterized by damage to the nerves, is another complication of high blood sugar levels that can lead to pain, tingling, and numbness, primarily in the legs and feet. By lowering and stabilizing blood sugar levels, Ozempic may help prevent or slow the development of neuropathy in individuals with diabetes.

Drawbacks of Ozempic for insulin resistance

While Ozempic offers several benefits for managing insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes, it can be helpful to consider its drawbacks. These drawbacks may include common side effects, serious health risks, and the financial impact of treatment.

Common gastrointestinal side effects

Many people using Ozempic may experience stomach-related side effects. These can range from mild to severe and include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain

These side effects are usually temporary and tend to diminish over time as your body adjusts to the medication. However, they can be uncomfortable and may affect your daily activities.

Serious side effects

Ozempic can also lead to more severe health problems, although these are less common. Some serious side effects of Ozempic may include:

  • Pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas that can cause severe stomach pain
  • Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels, which may cause symptoms like dizziness, sweating, confusion, and headache 
  • Thyroid tumors, including a rare risk of cancer, especially in people who have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
  • Worsened kidney problems, including kidney failure, especially in people with pre-existing kidney disease who experience dehydration with Ozempic
  • Allergic reactions with severe symptoms, including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulties breathing or swallowing, severe rash or itching, fainting or feeling dizzy, and very rapid heartbeat
  • Gallbladder problems with symptoms such as pain in the upper stomach (abdomen), yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), fever, and clay-colored stool 

Talk to your doctor about these risks before starting Ozempic, especially if you have a history of pancreatitis, kidney disease, or thyroid cancer. If any serious side effects develop, seek immediate medical advice. 

Potentially high cost

One of the biggest barriers to using Ozempic for insulin resistance is its cost. The medication may be expensive, and insurance coverage can vary. As a result, the cost of Ozempic can make it challenging for some patients to afford their treatment, leading to skipped doses or discontinuing treatment altogether. Check with your insurance provider or look into savings options like the SingleCare discount card to compare prices.

Ozempic vs. other treatment options

For managing insulin resistance, particularly in people with Type 2 diabetes, there are several alternatives to Ozempic. These treatment options include the following.

Metformin

Metformin is often the first-line medication prescribed to manage Type 2 diabetes. It works by reducing the amount of sugar produced by the liver and increasing muscle cells’ sensitivity to insulin. This action helps to lower blood sugar levels and improve glycemic control. In addition, metformin may cause weight loss, which may be beneficial for some patients. 

Thiazolidinediones

Thiazolidinediones, also known as TZDs or glitazones, are another class of medications used to treat Type 2 diabetes. They work by improving insulin sensitivity in fat and muscle cells, which helps the body use insulin more effectively. Medications like Actos (pioglitazone) and Avandia (rosiglitazone) are in this class. While effective, they have been linked to increased risks of heart failure and other side effects, so they are not suitable for everyone.

Other GLP-1 agonists

Other than Ozempic, there are several GLP-1 receptor agonists available for managing Type 2 diabetes. These include drugs like Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Rybelsus (oral semaglutide), which mimic the natural incretin hormone GLP-1 to stimulate insulin release in response to meals. These medications not only help to lower blood sugar levels but may also support weight loss, similar to Ozempic.

Regular exercise

Regular physical activity is a key aspect of managing insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes. Exercise helps increase insulin sensitivity, which means that your muscles can use available insulin to absorb blood sugar during and after activity. As a result, exercise may help lower blood sugar levels and also contribute to weight management, which is beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes. 

Healthy dietary changes

Making healthy dietary changes can positively affect Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. A diet rich in fiber, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help control blood sugar levels and improve the body’s use of insulin. Avoiding or limiting processed foods, sugary beverages, and excessive carbohydrates may also be beneficial. 

RELATED: Ozempic diet: What to eat for weight loss

These medications work in various ways to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, but they are not interchangeable. A healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate treatment based on individual health needs.

Weighing the pros and cons of Ozempic for insulin resistance

Ozempic has shown promise in managing insulin resistance and other associated conditions. It may be particularly beneficial for people with conditions like PCOS and fatty liver disease, where insulin resistance may be a core problem.

The medication has not been universally approved for insulin resistance without diabetes, but off-label uses are being explored. Long-term effects are still being studied, so it’s best to have a conversation with your healthcare provider to weigh the pros and cons. Whether Ozempic is the right choice will depend on personal circumstances, including other health conditions and their severity.