Skip to content

Are you thinking about trying to get a prescription for Ozempic to lose weight? You might not need it, one expert says. Dr. Stephanie Dunlop, MD, specializes in helping women lose weight. In a new social media post, she reveals that a lot of people aren't candidates for a GLP-1 – and don't really need it to lose weight. "As a medical doctor and fitness coach, here are the only 3 reasons why I will prescribe Ozempic," she writes.

​She Won't Prescribe Ozempic to Just Anyone

"Ozempic has become a popular option for weight loss, but it's not the one-size-fits-all solution many think it is. As a doctor and fitness coach, I've seen firsthand how important it is to address the root causes of weight gain before reaching for medication. Here are the only 3 reasons I will prescribe Ozempic," she says in the start of the post.

RELATED: 20 Things You Need to Know About Ozempic and Weight Loss

​Severe Insulin Resistance or Metabolic Syndrome

The first reason? Severe insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome. "When lifestyle changes, like diet and exercise, aren't enough to manage blood sugar and insulin levels, Ozempic can help," she says. "But this should be a last resort after addressing basic nutrition and movement."

​Those Struggling to Lose Weight Despite Proper Nutrition & Exercise

Another situation in which she will prescribe it is if a person is struggling to lose weight despite proper nutrition and exercise. "If someone is doing everything right—working out, eating healthy—but still not seeing results, we may look into Ozempic as part of a comprehensive plan," she writes.

​When Other Hormonal Imbalances Are In Check

The third reason? Hormonal imbalances are in check. "If hormones like cortisol, thyroid, and others are optimized, and insulin is still the issue, then Ozempic may be helpful as part of a broader strategy," she writes. "But without addressing your whole health, it's not a magic fix."

RELATED: 20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

​You Shouldn't Take Ozempic Unless You Are Willing to Do These 3 Things

In another post, she reveals that you should never start Ozempic unless you are willing to do three things. "As someone who specializes in holistic health and hormone balance, I've seen first-hand how important it is to pair weight loss medications like Ozempic with lifestyle changes for lasting results," she writes.

​Medication Isn't a Magic Fix

"Here's the truth: medication alone isn't a magic fix. If you're considering Ozempic, you MUST be willing to commit to these 3 things for optimal success," she says.

RELATED: What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Taking Ozempic

​Strength Training

The first thing is strength training. "Without it, you'll lose muscle mass along with fat, which can slow your metabolism and set you up for weight regain later on along with comorbid conditions like osteopenia, osteoporosis or musculoskeletal and mobility issues later in life," she says.

​Balanced Nutrition

Next, balanced nutrition. "It's not just about cutting calories. You need to fuel your body with the right nutrients, focusing on protein, healthy fats, and low-glycemic carbs to support your metabolism," she writes.

RELATED: 20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

​Stress Management

The third thing you need to prioritize is stress management. "High cortisol levels can sabotage your weight loss, even on medication. Implementing stress-reducing practices like sleep, meditation, and mindful eating is crucial," she writes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Leah Groth
Leah Groth is a writer for Eat This, Not That! and Best Life. Read more