Warning: This article contains discussions of eating disorders, which some readers may find distressing.
American singer-songwriter Avery, whose real name is Anna Iannitelli, recently took to social media to share a deeply personal and emotional revelation regarding her health. In a series of candid videos, the artist disclosed that she has been diagnosed with osteoporosis, which she believes resulted from taking Ozempic for a year.
Avery’s warning comes amid growing concerns over the misuse of Ozempic, a prescription drug originally intended to treat type 2 diabetes, which has gained popularity for its off-label use as a weight loss aid.
Avery’s Emotional Confession: “I Wasn’t Expecting This”
In a heartfelt Instagram video, Avery revealed that she had stopped taking Ozempic two months ago and recently underwent a medical check-up to assess her overall health. Expecting signs of improvement after discontinuing the medication, she was instead met with shocking news—significant bone density loss leading to osteoporosis.
“I wasn’t expecting this,” she admitted through tears. “I guess Ozempic can cause bone density loss, and I didn’t think that that would happen to me because I was only on it for a year. But I have significant bone loss.”
Avery further explained that in addition to osteoporosis, she has also been diagnosed with osteopenia, a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures.
According to the Mayo Clinic, osteoporosis is a serious condition in which bones become weak and brittle, making them highly susceptible to fractures—even from minor falls, bending, or coughing.
What Is Ozempic and Why Is It Being Used for Weight Loss?
Ozempic, which contains the active ingredient semaglutide, was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017 to help adults with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels. The medication works by stimulating insulin production while also slowing digestion, making individuals feel full for longer.
Despite not being approved for weight loss, Ozempic has become widely used off-label for shedding excess pounds. A higher-dose version of semaglutide, marketed as Wegovy, is FDA-approved for weight management, but Ozempic itself is not intended for this purpose.
According to UC Davis Health, a medical center affiliated with the University of California, Ozempic is specifically recommended for patients with type 2 diabetes who have not responded to at least three other medications.
Similarly, Diabetes UK and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) advise that Ozempic should only be prescribed if other treatment options have proven ineffective or are unsuitable for a patient.
However, despite these guidelines, off-label use of Ozempic for weight loss has surged, particularly among individuals seeking rapid results without medical supervision.
Avery’s Cautionary Tale: “Please Be Careful”
Avery admitted that she did not obtain Ozempic through a prescription, highlighting how easily accessible the drug has become.
“I made a mistake. I take responsibility for my actions. Please learn from mine,” she urged.
She went on to stress the dangers of using Ozempic without medical supervision, emphasizing the long-term consequences it may have on one’s health.
“Please, please, please be careful with Ozempic if you are not someone who needs to take it.”
In a follow-up video, Avery clarified that she was not demonizing Ozempic but instead hoped to educate others about the potential risks of misusing the drug.
“I just want people to be aware of what can happen when you use it unprescribed,” she explained.
Novo Nordisk Responds: “Misuse Poses a Direct Danger to Health”
Following Avery’s viral revelations, a spokesperson for Novo Nordisk, the pharmaceutical company behind Ozempic, addressed the issue.
“Novo Nordisk does not condone, suggest, or encourage misuse of any of our medicines outside of their approved indications,” the company stated.
The pharmaceutical giant reaffirmed that Ozempic is strictly a prescription-only medication, meant exclusively for individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
They further warned:
“Accessing prescription-only medicines without a valid prescription or without the care of a healthcare professional can pose a direct danger to health.”
The statement also emphasized that patients should work closely with their doctors to determine whether Ozempic is appropriate for their condition, rather than seeking it for off-label uses.
The Growing Concern Over Ozempic Misuse
Avery’s experience has reignited discussions about the rising trend of using Ozempic as a weight loss drug, particularly among individuals without diabetes.
While many celebrities and social media influencers have praised the drug for its rapid weight loss effects, medical experts warn that it is not a one-size-fits-all solution and that long-term effects are still not fully understood.
Potential side effects of Ozempic include:
Nausea and vomiting
Stomach pain and bloating
Fatigue and dizziness
Changes in bowel movements (diarrhea or constipation)
Muscle loss and decreased bone density (as seen in Avery’s case)
Moreover, abrupt discontinuation of Ozempic without proper guidance can lead to rapid weight regain, metabolic imbalances, and other health complications.
Lessons from Avery’s Story: A Call for Caution
Avery’s emotional testimony serves as an important cautionary tale about the dangers of using powerful medications without proper medical oversight.
Her story underscores the need for responsible medication use and the risks of prioritizing quick fixes over long-term health.
