The Hollywood Weight Loss Phenomenon: A New Class of Drugs
The conversation around celebrity weight loss has shifted dramatically with the rise of a class of drugs called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists [1.3.6]. Originally developed for treating type 2 diabetes, medications like Ozempic, Wegovy (both containing semaglutide), and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) have become immensely popular in Hollywood for their significant weight loss effects [1.2.2]. Prescriptions for obesity management drugs increased from 760,000 in July 2017 to 1.51 million by February 2024, with a major shift toward semaglutide and tirzepatide [1.6.2].
Numerous celebrities have publicly shared their experiences. Comedian Amy Schumer admitted to trying Ozempic but stopped due to severe side effects that impacted her quality of life [1.2.2]. Meanwhile, figures like Elon Musk, Whoopi Goldberg, and Kelly Osbourne have also confirmed their use of these medications to achieve weight loss goals [1.2.5, 1.2.3]. The trend is so prevalent that it has been a topic of jokes at major events like the Oscars [1.2.2].
How Do These Medications Work?
GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic a natural hormone released by the gut after eating [1.3.2]. Their mechanism for weight loss is multi-faceted:
- Appetite Suppression: They act on the brain's hypothalamus to regulate food intake, reducing feelings of hunger and decreasing cravings for high-calorie foods [1.3.4, 1.3.3].
- Delayed Gastric Emptying: The drugs slow down the rate at which food leaves the stomach, prolonging the sensation of fullness after a meal [1.3.6, 1.3.2].
- Improved Metabolic Function: They enhance the body's insulin secretion in response to meals, which helps control blood sugar levels. They also improve the body's ability to burn fat efficiently [1.3.1, 1.3.3].
This combination of effects leads to reduced caloric intake and significant weight loss. In clinical trials, users of Wegovy lost an average of 15% of their body weight, while Zepbound (a brand name for tirzepatide) has shown weight loss of around 21% at the highest dose [1.4.6].
A Comparison of Popular Weight Loss Medications
While GLP-1 agonists are currently in the spotlight, other prescription medications have been used for weight management for years. These include drugs like Phentermine and Contrave.
| Feature | GLP-1 Agonists (e.g., Wegovy, Zepbound) | Phentermine (e.g., Adipex-P) | Contrave (Naltrexone/Bupropion) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Mimics gut hormones to suppress appetite and slow digestion [1.3.6]. | A stimulant that acts on the central nervous system to suppress appetite [1.5.1]. | A combination of an opioid antagonist and an antidepressant that works on the brain's reward system to control cravings [1.5.5]. |
| Administration | Once-weekly subcutaneous injection [1.5.2]. | Daily oral tablet or capsule [1.5.1]. | Twice-daily extended-release oral tablet [1.5.1]. |
| Duration of Use | Approved for long-term chronic weight management [1.5.3]. | Typically approved for short-term use (up to 12 weeks) [1.5.7]. | Approved for long-term use [1.5.1]. |
| Common Side Effects | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain [1.4.6]. | Dry mouth, insomnia, increased heart rate, constipation [1.5.6, 1.5.1]. | Nausea, constipation, headache, risk of suicidal thoughts (black box warning) [1.5.5]. |
| Weight Loss Efficacy | High (average 15-21% of body weight) [1.4.6]. | Moderate (average 5-10% of body weight) [1.6.9]. | Modest (average 4-5% of body weight) [1.5.5]. |
The Risks and Controversies
The use of these drugs, particularly off-label, is not without risks and controversy. The most common side effects of GLP-1 agonists are gastrointestinal, including severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea [1.4.6]. More serious potential risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, kidney issues, and a risk of thyroid C-cell tumors noted in animal studies [1.4.4, 1.4.6].
There's also the issue of "Ozempic face," a term describing facial gauntness and aging that can result from rapid weight loss, and the potential for muscle mass loss alongside fat loss [1.4.1]. Furthermore, many users regain the weight after stopping the medication, raising questions about long-term efficacy and the need for continuous treatment [1.4.3]. The high demand from the weight-loss market has also led to shortages, creating access issues for diabetic patients who rely on these drugs for glycemic control [1.2.2].
The Broader Context: Beyond the Hype
It's crucial to understand that these medications are not a simple fix. Wegovy and Zepbound are FDA-approved for individuals with obesity (BMI ≥30) or those who are overweight (BMI ≥27) with at least one weight-related comorbidity like high blood pressure [1.4.3, 1.3.4]. They are intended to be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity [1.4.3].
Some celebrities, like Khloé Kardashian and Julia Fox, have publicly denied using these drugs, attributing their physiques to diet and exercise and pointing out that the medications are needed by people with diabetes [1.2.4]. This highlights the ongoing debate about the ethics of using these drugs for cosmetic weight loss versus medical necessity.
Conclusion
The answer to "What do movie stars take to lose weight?" has increasingly become: GLP-1 receptor agonists. Drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro offer a powerful tool for weight reduction that has been embraced by many in Hollywood. However, their use brings significant considerations, including common and serious side effects, the potential for weight regain, high costs, and ethical questions surrounding their off-label use. While older medications like Phentermine and Contrave exist, the dramatic efficacy of newer injectable drugs has made them the current, albeit controversial, choice for many seeking rapid and substantial weight loss.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before considering any weight loss medication.
