Victor Espuig, MD: "Never ever use Ozempic to lose weight without improving your diet and exercising."

Víctor Espuig, a young family doctor who has become popular on TikTok for his way of explaining medical issues, has issued a stern warning about the use of injections like Ozempic for weight loss. In a recent video, the doctor analyzed the benefits and risks of medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide, whose brand names—including Ozempic—have become popular on social media for their effectiveness in weight loss.

"If the answer is yes, pay attention," he says at the beginning of the video, addressing those who are overweight or obese and are considering starting treatment with these drugs. Espuig points out that these medications cannot be purchased in pharmacies: "They are not sold without a prescription and should only be used under medical supervision." Despite their growing popularity, he insists that they are not funded by Social Security when the goal is to treat obesity without associated diseases .

The price, according to the doctor, can be a limiting factor for many patients: between 150 and 350 euros per month, depending on the dose. This makes the treatment an expensive option that, without proper support, can end up being a waste of money. "You'll be losing a lot of money, putting your health at risk, and the weight will come back as soon as you stop the treatment," he warns.

But why are they so popular? Espuig explains that these drugs act through three main pathways: they reduce appetite, slow gastric emptying, and improve insulin sensitivity . This, together, allows many people to lose a significant amount of weight in a short period of time. However, they also have side effects, especially gastrointestinal ones. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common, although they tend to disappear over time and as the body adapts.

Despite their effectiveness, Espuig emphasizes what he believes is the most important message of the video: these treatments should not be seen as a stand-alone solution . He points out that improving your diet and doing strength training are two non-negotiable actions if you want weight loss to be sustainable over time. Otherwise, the results will be temporary, and the risk of a rebound effect is very high.

In addition to the health warning, the family doctor also expressed concern about the use of these medications as a fad or as a shortcut to effortless weight loss. In recent months, celebrity personalities and influencers have contributed to spreading the use of semaglutide, disregarding the fact that it is a medical treatment that requires proper monitoring and diagnosis.

“Never, ever, ever use these treatments without making profound and permanent lifestyle changes,” Espuig repeats emphatically. Her message has a relatable yet resounding tone, seeking to raise awareness among those tempted to take the easy route without considering the risks to their health.