The well-known comedian Tracy Morgan has opened up about his personal experience with the diabetes medication Ozempic, which has gained attention for its off-label use in weight management. Morgan’s journey with the drug reveals an unexpected twist.
On his appearance on The Tonight Show on Tuesday, March 19, the 55-year-old entertainer made a surprising declaration to the host Jimmy Fallon regarding his attempts at weight loss with Ozempic.
Fallon complimented Morgan on his appearance and inquired about his fitness routine. To which, the Saturday Night Live alumnus attributed his physical form to Ozempic, indicating an unusual outcome – he claimed he managed to “out-eat” the effects of the drug.
“That’s Ozempic,” said Morgan. “I’ve learned to out-eat Ozempic. I out-ate Ozempic. I’ve gained 40 pounds.”
Expressing disbelief, Fallon responded, “Really? I’ve never heard of anyone gaining 40 [pounds] on [Ozempic].” Morgan confirmed this, humorously drawing a comparison to Magic Johnson with his weight gain.
The status of Morgan’s usage of Ozempic is unclear, but he had previously reported a reduced appetite when he began the medication, according to a conversation with Today co-hosts Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager in August 2023.
“It cuts my appetite in half,” he mentioned at the time. “Now I only eat half a bag of Doritos.”
Morgan also disclosed his disciplined regimen, which includes early starts and gym sessions followed by rest.
Although approved by the FDA to treat Type 2 diabetes since 2017, Ozempic’s off-label use for weight loss, while not yet officially sanctioned by the health agency, has become popular. Even with celebrity endorsements, concerns and debates about its long-term effectiveness as a weight loss solution have gained momentum, highlighted by critiques from Marie Osmond, Sharon Osbourne, and an alarming report from Real Housewives star Jennifer Fessler.
Related reading: Comedian Claudia Oshry Sends Powerful Message Regarding Her Post-Ozempic Experience
FAQ Section
What is Ozempic used for?
Ozempic is an FDA-approved medication for adults with Type 2 diabetes. It is used to improve blood sugar in conjunction with diet and exercise. It’s also known for its side effect of weight loss, leading to its off-label use for this purpose.
Can Ozempic really lead to weight gain?
While Ozempic is typically associated with appetite reduction and weight loss, individual responses to the medication can vary. Tracy Morgan claimed that he was able to “out-eat” the appetite-suppressing effect of Ozempic, resulting in weight gain.
Is it common for celebrities to use Ozempic for weight loss?
Yes, several celebrities have admitted to using Ozempic or similar medications for weight loss, despite it not being approved specifically for this use by the FDA.
What are some concerns associated with using Ozempic for weight loss?
Concerns include its effectiveness as a long-term solution, potential for addiction to weight loss, and side effects that might lead to serious health issues, as reported by some individuals, including celebrities.
Conclusion
Tracy Morgan’s unexpected experience with Ozempic underscores the complexities of off-label drug use, especially for weight management. His candid revelation prompts a conversation on the individual variability of medication effects and the growing trend among celebrities to use such drugs for weight loss. As more public figures share their diverse outcomes, it brings to light the importance of discussing potential risks and benefits with healthcare providers before considering medications like Ozempic for off-label purposes.