Social media is full of GLP-1 claims—some accurate, some dangerously wrong. Here's what the science actually says.
False
"Ozempic causes stomach paralysis in everyone"
GLP-1s slow gastric emptying—that's how they work. Actual gastroparesis (severe, persistent stomach paralysis) is rare. Most people experience temporary, mild slowing that improves with time. The viral "stomach paralysis" stories are real but represent extreme outliers, not typical experience.
Partially True
"You'll gain it all back if you stop"
Data shows ~⅔ of lost weight is regained within a year of stopping. But not everyone regains everything—some maintain with strong lifestyle habits. The medication treats a chronic condition; stopping is like stopping blood pressure medication. For most, long-term use is the plan.
False
"Ozempic causes thyroid cancer"
Rodent studies showed thyroid C-cell tumors at high doses. Human data shows no increased thyroid cancer risk. The warning exists because of the rodent signal, but after millions of human users, no connection has been found. Still contraindicated if you have family history of medullary thyroid cancer.
True
"It makes you lose interest in drinking"
Multiple studies and massive patient reports confirm reduced alcohol interest and consumption. Clinical trials for alcohol use disorder are underway. The effect is real—many people report dramatically reduced desire for alcohol.
Partially True
"You lose all your muscle on Ozempic"
25-40% of weight lost is lean mass—but this happens with any significant weight loss, not just GLP-1s. It's a real concern, especially for older adults. Solution: resistance training + adequate protein. Not inevitable if you actively work to prevent it.
False
"Compounded semaglutide is completely unregulated"
Compounding pharmacies are regulated by state boards and, if 503B registered, by the FDA. Quality varies, but legitimate pharmacies follow USP standards and testing protocols. The problem is bad actors, not an unregulated industry.
True
"GLP-1s can restore fertility unexpectedly"
Weight loss + improved insulin sensitivity can restore ovulation rapidly, especially in women with PCOS. "Ozempic babies" are real. If you're on GLP-1s and could become pregnant, use contraception—the medication is contraindicated during pregnancy.
Partially True
"Ozempic makes food taste different"
Many patients report altered taste perception, particularly reduced pleasure from sweet/fatty foods. This appears to be related to changes in brain reward signaling. Not everyone experiences it, but it's a real and documented phenomenon.
The Bottom Line
Social media exaggerates both risks and benefits. GLP-1s don't cause thyroid cancer in humans, don't universally cause stomach paralysis, and aren't completely unregulated. But weight regain after stopping is common, muscle loss is a real concern, and unexpected fertility restoration does happen. Get your information from primary sources, not 60-second videos.
Sources
- FDA prescribing information and safety data.
- Clinical trial data on side effects and outcomes.
- Published research on specific claims (alcohol, fertility, taste changes).