Amy Schumer is shining a light on her difficult experience with Ozempic, revealing a genetic cause that almost kept her from continuing the medication.
The well-known comedian, now 43, explored the use of Ozempic—a medication primarily used for diabetes but also marketed for weight loss—about three years ago in 2022. However, her journey was far from smooth as she faced unbearable nausea and vomiting.
Schumer, who had previously experienced similar symptoms during her pregnancy, discovered she carries the GDF15 gene. This genetic trait results in low levels of the GDF15 hormone, which can trigger taste aversion, nausea, and vomiting.
‘I have this gene – GDF15 – which makes you extremely prone to nausea,’ Schumer shared on SiriusXM’s The Howard Stern Show, connecting her experience with her difficult pregnancy in 2019 when she had her son with husband Chris Fischer.
Throughout her Ozempic trial, Schumer felt bedridden and energy-drained. While she did lose 30 pounds, the cost was severe discomfort and an inability to engage in playful activities with her young son.
Schumer playfully suggested that the positives often advertised about Ozempic are actually deterrents. Even Oprah Winfrey, who admitted to using a similar weight-loss drug, appears thinner than her co-host Howard Stern.
Her candidness shines through as she calls out fellow celebrities for hiding their use of such medications, encouraging honesty instead. ‘Stop hiding it. Be real with the people,’ she urged during her appearance on Andy Cohen’s Watch What Happens Live.
Her transparency extends beyond Ozempic. She openly discussed the effect of hurtful comments about her ‘moon face’ on social media, which ultimately led to her Cushing syndrome diagnosis. Trolls, she admitted, expedited her discovery of the condition.
Initially dismissing the cruel comments, she only took them seriously when medical professionals speculated her condition online. The syndrome, a result of excess cortisol, was exacerbated by her use of steroids following surgeries, including a breast reduction and Cesarean.
After confiding in director Lorraine Caffery, Schumer found solace and confidence to continue her career, starring in the upcoming movie Kinda Pregnant. Her openness about her health challenges continues to enhance public awareness about these common yet often misunderstood issues.
Schumer’s openness offers a poignant reminder of the power of vulnerability and honesty, especially in the often image-conscious world of celebrity. Her journey with Ozempic and Cushing syndrome sheds light on personal struggles that many silently endure, encouraging others to understand their own health conditions more deeply.
