Just started. Terrified!

Hey all.

I made a throwaway account to post this. Feels safer somehow.

I started on Ozempic earlier today. I'm around 330 lbs and have struggled with my weight my entire life, except for one brief period. Now I'm in my early 40s, have two little ones, deal with hypertension, and I'm constantly dragging myself around. Tried SO many plans, nothing has stuck - so I decided to bite the bullet and go for Ozempic, basically admitting defeat and dipping into my savings, maybe forever.

And now I'm super nervous. What if it doesn't work? I kind of thought this would be a guaranteed fix. I found this forum last week and poked around - doesn't seem to be the case. It feels like my last chance, so much depends on this working.

I am just rambling now. Sorry. I guess, wish me the best.

Hi! You are definitely not the only one feeling this way. The first day IS scary. It's okay to feel like that, but please remember it's not instant results but it CAN be life-changing. All the best to you! I'm here to lend any support I can!

I can relate to a lot of that. I'm also in my mid-40s, two kiddos, high blood pressure and always tired. I've done all the weight loss stuff -- diets, the gym, fasting, online workout programs. They never work long-term, and I usually end up in worse shape than before. When my blood sugar started creeping up, my doctor said Ozempic would be a good option. I'm not seeing it as a failure -- I see it as acknowledging that my body needs help to get to a healthy weight.

I've been on it for about a month. So far, I've lost about 8 pounds -- not a huge amount, but it's steady and healthy. More than that, I just feel better overall. I'm eating better; more protein, less simple carbs. I'm not as wiped out all the time. My joints feel better -- I have more energy. The other day, I actually took the stairs to my office instead of the elevator, and while I was a little winded, I didn't feel like collapsing. I'm sleeping better too. My clothes are fitting better. I'm enjoying these small improvements. I'm even looking forward to my morning protein shake.

Is it a guaranteed fix? Of course not -- nothing is. Is it magic? No -- you'll need to focus on eating healthier, controlling cravings, and being more active. And there will be weeks where you don't lose anything, or even gain. Think of it as a marathon and an opportunity to change your life instead of just a quick fix, and it will be much easier.

You've got this. Go slow. Stay positive. Trust the process. Don't freak out if you don't lose much at first -- the first month is mostly getting your body used to it. Come here for support when you need it. Good luck!

Cardio thirty minutes five times weekly on machines. Trying to lower swelling and drop more before aggravating old injuries so staying low impact till peptides handle things. Hydrating protein one fifty which is hard. Sleep schedule solid. One peptide helped sleep and glycine helps too. Another option daily. BP one fifty seven and TB five hundred started. Might need something else.

Using Ozempic isn't a failure. It's a medication that can help you avoid other health issues as you get older, like needing cholesterol meds or blood pressure meds, or even insulin, or needing joint replacements. It's not a 'get out of jail free' card, it's a tool to assist you in improving your health. Would you think using a screwdriver is a failure because you couldn't screw something in with your bare hands? Of course not.

Keep your chin up. In a month or so you will start to feel better than you have in a long time.

Great choice. I know it took a lot to get to this point and say: I've tried everything else and nothing works, so I'll have to try this for myself, for my health…. I have the same story. This med is effective… but you need to be patient and dedicated

It's not a failure at all! It's a brave decision to prioritize and take care of yourself Ozempic etc are medicines, after all, so why wouldn't we use them if they can help! But, please don't get discouraged if your first few weeks are difficult. Your body has to get used to the medication and that takes time. Make sure you take extra good care of yourself and rest when you need to! Wishing you well on this journey!

I had my first injection Tuesday evening. I'm 58, male, diabetic, high blood pressure and I'm overweight. I hesitated to start it for a while since I was scared of possible side effects (and letting other people talk me out of it). Eventually I decided I can either die too young from all these health issues or from a side effect of the drug. I'm taking my chances with the side effects. I'm committed to this for the long haul. My initial goal is to lose around 40 lbs, and if I get there I'll be pretty happy and then decide whether to keep going.

You've got this! Slow and steady wins the race!

Pues no empieces

Thanks, everyone, for the kind words and support. It really helps to know I'm not alone in this. @FidgetQueen Your story is really encouraging. I hope my journey goes as well as yours is going. What protein shake do you drink? Always looking for new ideas...

And thanks @MetforminMeh for the screwdriver analogy. It made me laugh and put things in perspective!

FunkyBetter said:

What protein shake do you drink? Always looking for new ideas...

Click to expand...

I usually make my own with whey protein powder, some frozen berries, spinach, and almond milk. Sometimes I add a little peanut butter for extra flavor and protein. There are tons of recipes online!

Saw this linked in another forum. For anyone just starting out, might be useful:

I agree with @MetforminMeh... it is a medicine, not a moral failing. We are lucky to have these medications available, and should use them if our doctors think it is appropriate. I am a nurse but not YOUR nurse, so please seek medical advice from your own physician.

So glad to see so many supportive comments here! It really makes a difference when you're feeling overwhelmed. @FunkyBetter keep us updated on how you're doing!

I cut alcohol for March and the cravings were intense with the heat. But last night when I finally opened wine, I didn't touch it like I used to. Alcohol's been my real weight gain culprit, honestly.

your doc's right. stick with ozempic if it's controlling your a1c, that's what matters most. to break a plateau, dial in what you're eating and add 30 mins more walking—consistency will get the scale moving again soon.

You're just getting started and I'm genuinely happy for you! Keep that energy up.

The loopy or slightly off feeling in the first few hours is the GLP-1 receptor activation hitting the brain - it comes before the appetite changes and normalizes after the first 2-3 doses for most people.

Starting at 62 and already noticing is the right opening - the quieter appetite usually settles in around week 2.

Starting at 330 lbs and doing it anyway is the move. The first shot is the hardest part.