Semaglutide (sold as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus) is one of the latest weight-loss trends. This glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist, or GLP-1 drug, was originally approved to treat type 2 diabetes and is now increasingly prescribed to treat obesity. Considering the genetic and hormonal challenges that can make lifestyle-based weight loss difficult, semaglutide’s popularity isn’t a surprise.

While not everyone experiences significant weight loss on GLP-1 drugs, some MyObesityTeam members are happy with their results. “Three months on Ozempic and my life has changed drastically,” shared one. Another said, “I am on Ozempic and I love it.”

However, some people who take semaglutide might be surprised by the unexpected ways the drug can change how they look. You might have heard the term “Ozempic butt” to describe the way a person’s backside can appear to deflate after taking GLP-1 drugs for weight management.

“Ozempic butt” is an informal term and not a medical diagnosis or sign of health problems. However, concerns about reduced muscle mass in the butt can cause self-esteem issues, and plastic surgeons report hearing from people interested in procedures to restore volume in their buttocks.

Here are four facts to know about Ozempic butt, what causes it, and how it can be avoided.

1. Muscle Loss Causes Ozempic Butt

The reason why you might see a change in the shape of your butt while taking semaglutide or another GLP-1 receptor agonist is because you’re losing a lot of weight. Major, rapid weight loss can lead to muscle loss for anyone. Health experts estimate that muscle accounts for up to a third of the weight you lose from weight-loss medications, surgery, or diet changes. Despite the phrase “Ozempic butt,” this isn’t just a side effect of semaglutide.

2. Loose Skin Is a Common Side Effect of Weight Loss

Significant weight loss — from semaglutide or any other weight-loss approach — often leads to sagging or loose skin. Your skin previously stretched to accommodate a larger size. After stretching, the skin loses the elasticity needed to shrink to a smaller body weight. Once you lose weight, the skin on your butt and other areas appears looser and can sag.

3. You Can Take Steps To Preserve Muscle Mass

Changes in the shape of the buttocks after taking semaglutide are mostly due to muscle loss. Maintaining and strengthening the muscles can offset muscle loss and help you keep your glutes strong.

You can support your muscle mass while taking semaglutide by:

• Committing to strength training and resistance training — Try pilates, weight lifting, or other workouts that build muscle. A personal trainer can help you get regular exercise.
• Eating plenty of protein — Most people need between 60 and 90 grams of protein per day to preserve muscle, but your doctor or registered dietitian can tell you what’s right for you. If your low appetite makes it hard to eat enough, consider protein shakes.
• Staying hydrated — Your muscles are 76 percent water, and staying hydrated supports muscle function.

4. It’s Important To Let Your Doctor Know if Weight Changes Affect Your Mental Health

Major weight loss on semaglutide can cause unexpected changes in several areas of the body. You might also see a change in the way your face looks, which some call “Ozempic face.”

Any significant change in your appearance can impact your self-esteem. It’s important to remind yourself that you are taking steps to improve your health and to focus on the ways you’re reaching your goals.

If concerns about your changing appearance are affecting your mental health, let your healthcare team know. They can refer you to a counselor to help you process your feelings or assist you in designing a strength training routine to preserve muscle mass. They can also let you know about cosmetic procedures, such as excess skin removal surgery or plastic surgery, which can reduce the appearance of sagging skin or modify your proportions.

Talk to your doctor if you’re unhappy with body changes from semaglutide. They can support you in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet or help you decide how to address your body’s changes.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyObesityTeam is the social network for people with obesity and their loved ones. On MyObesityTeam, more than 57,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with obesity.

Are you concerned about changes in your appearance after taking GLP-1 drugs? Have you taken any steps to maintain muscle mass while on these drugs? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.