Understanding ‘Ozempic Feet’: The Newest GLP-1 Side Effect You Need to Know
“Ozempic feet” is an unexpected side effect linked to weight loss medications like Ozempic. This phenomenon is characterized by sagging skin and reduced fat padding on the feet, which can occur when individuals experience rapid weight loss. Experts recommend slower weight loss, staying hydrated, and wearing supportive shoes to mitigate this condition.
With the rising popularity of anti-obesity medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound, discussions around side effects, including the widely recognized “Ozempic face” and “Ozempic butt,” have intensified. Recently, another surprising change, dubbed “Ozempic feet,” has caught attention online.
The focus on this foot-related side effect began circulating on social media, particularly following comments on the changing appearance of celebrities like Sharon Osbourne and Oprah Winfrey. Although neither has confirmed using GLP-1 therapies, medical professionals like Scott Isaacs, MD, president of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology, state that such medications can indeed alter the look of a person’s feet.
What are Ozempic Feet?
According to Dr. Isaacs, Ozempic feet are distinguished by:
- Sagging skin
- Reduced fat padding
- Visible tendons or veins
This condition typically occurs when an individual loses a significant amount of weight rapidly. The weight loss affects various body areas, including the feet, as the body’s fat distribution changes.
Dr. Isaacs explains that the skin’s natural elasticity may struggle to keep pace with rapid fat loss, particularly if the skin has been extensively stretched before or if collagen and elastin levels are diminished due to age, genetics, or past overweight status.
Is Ozempic Feet a Cause for Concern?
The rapid reduction of fat pads on the feet, especially beneath the heel and ball, can have uncomfortable consequences. As Dr. Isaacs points out, these fat pads serve as natural shock absorbers. When they’re lost quickly, the skin in the foot can become lax and unsupported.
This can lead to an uncomfortable feeling, akin to walking on bone, which may make standing and walking painful. This discomfort may prompt changes in how individuals walk, potentially impacting their gait mechanics.
In some cases, these changes could increase the risk of developing other foot problems, exacerbating existing conditions, limiting exercise abilities, and thus impacting overall health.
If you experience significant discomfort, Dr. Karl Nadolsky, a clinical endocrinologist and obesity specialist, recommends consulting a podiatrist. “It’s essential to work with a physician, dietitian, and prioritize strength training when losing weight and managing diabetes,” he advises.
Interestingly, while “Ozempic feet” is drawing attention, Dr. Nadolsky also notes that similar effects can result from any rapid and significant weight loss, not just those experiencing changes with GLP-1 medications.
Understanding Ozempic Hands
The effects of rapid weight loss aren’t limited to the feet. Individuals may also notice a decline in subcutaneous fat in their hands, leading to a more skeletal or aged appearance. This phenomenon is referred to as “Ozempic hands” or “Ozempic fingers.”
“As fat diminishes quickly in the hands, much like the feet and face, the skin may thin out, revealing more prominent veins and tendons,” explains Dr. Isaacs. This process mirrors that occurring in other body areas, where rapid fat loss results in decreased skin elasticity.
Can You Avoid Ozempic Feet?
For individuals who will genuinely benefit from a GLP-1 medication, a condition like Ozempic feet may be less concerning. Dr. Nadolsky explains, “Those with severe obesity-related diseases—such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, or sleep apnea—often gain more from treatment than they risk from potential side effects.”
It’s crucial to note that people without obesity should not use these medications, as the risks likely outweigh any benefits.
While completely preventing “Ozempic feet” isn’t a guarantee, a slower, more gradual weight loss process allows skin more time to adapt, reducing the likelihood of sagging or fat loss in the feet. To maintain skin elasticity and prevent discomfort, experts recommend:
- Staying well-hydrated to help maintain skin elasticity
- Regularly inspecting your feet for changes
- Wearing supportive, cushioned shoes for added comfort
For individuals with diabetes, it’s particularly important to be vigilant about foot care. Dr. Isaacs emphasizes that conditions like diabetic neuropathy can occur independently of Ozempic feet. Therefore, any new or worsening symptoms require a comprehensive medical evaluation to ensure accurate diagnosis and management.
