Ozempic in Kenya: Celebrities Join Global Weight-Loss Trend

Ozempic has become a global weight-loss trend among celebrities, including in Kenya, where stars like Pritty Vishy, Kelvin Kinuthia, and Sandra Dacha have confirmed using it to shed pounds.

Ozempic is a prescription medication primarily designed to treat type 2 diabetes, but it has gained widespread popularity for its weight-loss effects.

The drug, typically injected once a week, helps users feel full longer, eat less, and lose weight, even though weight loss is not its primary purpose.

International celebrities who have used it:

Elon Musk: In 2022, he tweeted that he used Wegovy, a similar drug, to stay fit.

Rosie O’Donnell: She openly discussed using a diabetes drug, likely Ozempic or Wegovy, to manage her weight.

Chelsea Handler: She admitted to being prescribed Ozempic, though initially unaware of what it was.

Sharon Osbourne: She revealed using Ozempic for weight loss but cautioned others about its side effects, including feeling sick.

Golnesa "GG" Gharachedaghi (Shahs of Sunset): She publicly acknowledged using semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, for weight loss.

Industry insiders report that many Hollywood actors use Ozempic during red carpet season to slim down quickly.

Common side effects include:

Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, especially when starting treatment.

Rare but serious risks, such as pancreatitis.

Gallbladder issues.

Muscle loss in some users, particularly without strength training.

High cost without insurance coverage.

Shortages due to high demand.

Potential rebound weight gain after discontinuing use.

Recently, Kenyan influencer Pritty Vishy shared her motivation for using Ozempic on Betty Kyallo’s TV47 show. She recounted hurtful comments that spurred her decision: “Someone called me and said, ‘I’m your fan, but you’re young and look old.’ Another person messaged me saying I deserve to die because I’m big and breathe too much air.”