Here’s a shocking revelation: the use of Ozempic, a popular weight-loss and diabetes medication, has skyrocketed in Manitoba over the past four years, with provincial data revealing a more than fourfold increase in prescriptions. But here’s where it gets controversial—as generic versions of this drug are set to hit the Canadian market this year, experts are divided on its long-term effects and societal implications. Could this be a game-changer for public health, or are we overlooking potential risks?
Introduced in 2018, Ozempic, a brand-name drug containing the active ingredient semaglutide, is primarily used to treat Type 2 diabetes and obesity. Semaglutide belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists, which work by regulating blood sugar levels and suppressing appetite. Manitoba’s pharmacare program data shows a staggering jump in Ozempic claims from 17,644 in the 2021-22 fiscal year to 88,367 in 2024-25. Vernon Dolinsky, a diabetes researcher at the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, expressed surprise at the numbers, stating, ‘These figures are larger than I anticipated.’
And this is the part most people miss—while Ozempic has proven effective for both diabetes management and weight loss, its long-term effects remain largely unknown. Dolinsky highlights the need for caution, saying, ‘We still don’t have a very good grasp on what the long-term effects of these medications are.’ Meanwhile, the drug’s manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, has lost its market exclusivity in Canada, paving the way for cheaper generic versions. This development could make the medication more accessible, but it also raises questions about its appropriate use.
For instance, in Manitoba, only individuals prescribed Ozempic for Type 2 diabetes are eligible for pharmacare coverage. Those using it solely for weight loss must either pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance. Hartley Macklin, a Winnipeg resident who uses Ozempic for weight loss, acknowledges the cost but believes the benefits outweigh the expense. ‘When you factor in the other costs of being obese—food, fast-food bills, and health complications—suddenly the cost of Ozempic becomes much lower,’ he explains. Since starting the medication in 2018, Macklin has lost 70 to 80 pounds, significantly improving his quality of life.
However, not everyone shares his enthusiasm. Natalie Riediger, an associate professor at the University of Manitoba, warns about the societal pressure to lose weight fueled by medications like Ozempic. ‘We’ve seen a bit of a backslide in body positivity, partly due to the marketing of these drugs,’ she notes. Another concern is weight cycling, or ‘yo-yo dieting,’ which has been linked to chronic inflammation, cardiovascular issues, and an increased risk of diabetes. Riediger points out that many users discontinue Ozempic due to side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, often leading to rebound weight gain.
Here’s a thought-provoking question: Are we relying too heavily on medications like Ozempic without addressing the root causes of obesity? While the drug can be a powerful tool, experts like Britt Kural, a pharmacy practice adviser, emphasize the importance of lifestyle changes. ‘Anyone using Ozempic should also focus on their diet, exercise, and maintaining muscle mass,’ Kural advises. Dolinsky echoes this sentiment, warning that muscle loss from weight-loss medications can exacerbate long-term weight gain if the drug is discontinued.
As Canada grapples with the rise of Ozempic and its generics, the debate continues. Could this medication revolutionize healthcare by reducing obesity-related conditions, or are we overlooking potential pitfalls? We’d love to hear your thoughts—do you think Ozempic is a miracle drug or a double-edged sword? Share your opinions in the comments below!
