Donald Trump drew attention during a recent appearance after joking about a business associate who uses Ozempic, referring to the medication as the “fat shot” and quipping that it “isn’t working.” The remark, delivered in his characteristic off-the-cuff style, quickly spread across social media and reignited discussion about the booming market for weight-loss drugs.
The former president made the comment while speaking informally about health trends among wealthy acquaintances. According to attendees, the line was met with laughter from some in the audience, though critics later accused him of trivializing medical treatment and body image issues.
Ozempic, a brand name for the drug semaglutide, was originally approved to treat Type 2 diabetes. In recent years, however, it has become widely known for its significant weight-loss effects. As demand surged, the medication became a cultural flashpoint — celebrated by some as a breakthrough and criticized by others as emblematic of celebrity-driven body pressures.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved semaglutide formulations for chronic weight management under specific conditions, noting that it should be used alongside diet and exercise. Medical professionals emphasize that the drug is not a cosmetic shortcut but a prescription therapy intended for patients meeting defined clinical criteria.
Trump’s remark appeared to blur that distinction, framing the medication as a trend rather than a treatment. While he did not name the associate directly, the joke suggested skepticism about the visible results.
