Why Ozempic Is Sending Patients to the ER – And the Unregulated “Wild West” Behind It

In recent years, GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have surged in popularity as weight-loss solutions. But despite their FDA approval and initial promise, more patients are discovering the serious downsides—some even landing in the emergency room.

“I’ve seen firsthand how hopeful patients are when they start these medications,” says Dr. Alexander Abkin, board-certified bariatric surgeon in New Jersey. “But I’ve also seen the distress when side effects derail their progress or send them to the hospital. That’s where bariatric surgery offers a more predictable, long-term solution.”

ER Visits on the Rise for Ozempic Users

A recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine tracked semaglutide-related emergency room visits across 82 hospitals. The data revealed that 70% of these visits were due to gastrointestinal distress—nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea being the most common culprits.

Dr. Abkin explains, “These medications work by slowing digestion, which can make people feel full longer. But for many, that mechanism backfires, leading to complications like gastroparesis, or even what’s being called ‘stomach paralysis.’”

Other ER visit causes included:

• Low blood sugar (16.5%), which surprisingly led to hospitalization in nearly 38% of those cases.
• Gallbladder inflammation, often a result of rapid, unregulated weight loss.
• Pancreatitis, bile duct issues, and rare complications like nerve pain (allodynia).

“GLP-1 medications are marketed as easy fixes,” Dr. Abkin adds. “But the reality is, these drugs can introduce a whole new set of medical risks—especially when patients are using compounded versions that aren’t FDA-regulated.”

The “Wild West” of Weight Loss Medications

One alarming trend is the rise of off-brand compounded semaglutide. Unlike FDA-approved versions, these medications are often prepared in non-standardized ways, increasing the risk of dosage errors and adverse reactions.

“It’s the Wild West out there,” warns Dr. Abkin. “Patients are buying medications online or from unverified providers. They’re injecting themselves without proper monitoring. It’s incredibly risky.”

As a result, patients are experiencing unexpected complications—from vision issues and gallstones to changes in mood and body composition (commonly referred to as ‘Ozempic face’ or ‘Ozempic butt’).

Why Bariatric Surgery Is a Safer, Proven Alternative

Dr. Abkin emphasizes that while medications may offer short-term weight loss, bariatric surgery remains the gold standard for sustainable, long-term weight control—particularly for those with obesity-related health conditions.

“With surgery, we’re not just putting a Band-Aid on hunger,” says Dr. Abkin. “We’re addressing the root metabolic causes of obesity. And we’re doing it in a way that’s safe, supervised, and proven by decades of outcomes data.”

Key advantages of bariatric surgery over GLP-1 drugs include:

• Long-term success: Weight loss is more significant and sustainable over time.
• Improvement or resolution of comorbidities: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea often improve dramatically.
• No dependency on lifelong medication: Unlike injections, surgery doesn’t require daily or weekly maintenance for the rest of your life.
• Lower risk of GI-related complications when procedures are performed by experienced, board-certified surgeons in accredited centers.

A Word of Caution for GLP-1 Users

Dr. Abkin stresses that patients currently taking Ozempic or Wegovy should be closely monitored. “If you’re experiencing severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of low blood sugar, it’s time to seek immediate medical attention—and reconsider your long-term plan.”

He also encourages patients to work with qualified providers, not online clinics or social media-driven programs.

“Weight loss is not one-size-fits-all. If you’re serious about improving your health and quality of life, talk to a specialist. Talk to a surgeon. Your future deserves more than a quick fix.”

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Alexander Abkin Today

If you’re ready to explore a safer, more effective alternative to GLP-1 medications, Dr. Abkin and his experienced team are here to help. Schedule your bariatric surgery consultation and take the first step toward lasting, transformative weight loss.