Megan Stalter Calls Out Ozempic Users: "We Know If You’re on It"
Megan Stalter, the actress known for her role as Kayla in the Max drama Hacks, recently sparked a candid conversation about the use of Ozempic, a medication initially designed to manage Type 2 diabetes but now widely used for weight loss. During an appearance on the podcast Grindr Presents: Who’s The A—–? with Katya, Stalter did not hold back when asked about people lying about using the drug. "Let’s just say the trips to the bathroom would say otherwise, okay? We know if you’re on it because you’re shtting your pants," she bluntly stated. Stalter, who has been nominated for three SAG Awards, made it clear she has no interest in using the medication herself. "I would rather be 500 pounds than shtting all day," she declared, expressing her disdain for the side effects associated with Ozempic.
Stalter’s comments highlight the growing debate around the use of Ozempic and similar GLP-1 receptor agonists, which have become a trendy but controversial solution for weight loss in Hollywood and beyond. While the drug has been FDA-approved to help individuals with Type 2 diabetes improve blood sugar levels, reduce cardiovascular risks, and slow kidney damage progression, it has not been officially approved for weight loss. However, doctors often prescribe it off-label for this purpose, leading to its widespread use among those seeking to shed pounds quickly.
The Rise of Ozempic: A Craze with a Cost
The rise of Ozempic as a weight loss trend has been nothing short of meteoric. Originally designed to help diabetic patients regulate their blood sugar, the medication works by mimicking a hormone that slows digestion and reduces appetite. While this can lead to significant weight loss, it often comes with unpleasant side effects, including diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and abdominal pain—issues Stalter humorously highlighted during her podcast appearance. Despite these drawbacks, many celebrities and public figures have embraced the drug, with some even joking openly about its effects. For instance, comedian Tracy Morgan quipped during a 2023 TODAY show appearance, "I ain’t letting it go. It cuts my appetite in half. Now I only eat half a bag of Doritos."
However, not everyone is a fan of Ozempic. Stalter, for one, finds the trade-off of constant digestive discomfort for weight loss to be unacceptable. "That’s so gross unless you have a sickness then that’s something you’re born with," she said. "But if you’re taking a drug on purpose to sh*t your brains out, just so you lose 10 pounds, honey, we liked you a little chubbier." Her comments underscore a societal tension between the pursuit of thinness and the acceptance of diverse body types.
Celebrities Weigh In: The Ozempic Effect
While Stalter is vocal about her reservations regarding Ozempic, other celebrities have been more open about their experiences with the drug. Tori Spelling, Rebel Wilson, Amy Schumer, and Chelsea Handler are among those who have discussed their use of Ozempic or similar medications. Their candidness has contributed to the drug’s popularity, despite its controversial reputation. However, the widespread use of Ozempic for weight loss has raised ethical questions. Critics argue that the drug is being overprescribed and misused, with some individuals seeking it out for cosmetic reasons rather than medical necessity.
Moreover, the growing reliance on Ozempic and other GLP-1 agonists like Wegovy and Zepbound has led to a cultural shift in how people view weight loss. These medications, which have been approved by the FDA for use in obese and overweight adults with weight-related health complications, are now being sought after by those who may not meet these criteria but are eager to achieve rapid results. This trend has sparked concerns about the long-term health implications of using these drugs for non-medical purposes.
The Science Behind Ozempic: More Than Just Weight Loss
While Ozempic’s popularity as a weight loss tool has dominated headlines, the drug’s original purpose and broader benefits cannot be overlooked. Studies have shown that Ozempic can decrease alcohol cravings in individuals with alcohol use disorder and may even lower the risk of depression. These findings suggest that the medication has potential beyond its primary use for diabetes management. However, its off-label use for weight loss has overshadowed these promising developments.
The FDA has approved other GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Wegovy and Zepbound, for weight management in certain populations. These medications have been shown to help individuals achieve significant weight loss, which can reduce the risk of complications like high blood pressure and high cholesterol. However, the growing demand for these drugs has led to shortages, leaving some patients with Type 2 diabetes unable to access the medication they need. This has further fueled the debate over the ethical use of Ozempic and similar drugs.
The Broader Implications: A Society Obsessed with Weight Loss
Stalter’s comments on Ozempic tap into a deeper cultural conversation about body image, health, and the lengths people will go to achieve societal beauty standards. The rise of Ozempic as a weight loss trend reflects a larger societal obsession with thinness, particularly in industries like Hollywood, where appearance is often scrutinized. While some individuals have found success with the drug, others, like Stalter, argue that the side effects and ethical concerns make it a flawed solution.
The use of Ozempic also raises questions about accessibility and equity. The drug is expensive, and its off-label use for weight loss has made it difficult for patients with diabetes to access it. This disparity highlights the systemic inequalities in healthcare, where cosmetic concerns often take precedence over medical needs. As the debate over Ozempic continues, it is essential to consider the broader implications of a culture that prioritizes thinness over health and well-being.
In conclusion, Megan Stalter’s blunt comments about Ozempic have shed light on the growing trend of using diabetes medications for weight loss. While some celebrities and individuals have embraced these drugs for their weight loss benefits, others, like Stalter, remain critical of the side effects and ethical concerns. As society grapples with the implications of this trend, it is crucial to prioritize health over aesthetics and ensure that medications like Ozempic are used responsibly and equitably.
