The growing use of semaglutide drugs, marketed under brand names like Ozempic and Wegovy, continues to ripple through various sectors, extending beyond pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. Recent reports highlight a concerning side effect for some professional singers: potential vocal impairment. While initially prescribed for type 2 diabetes and obesity, the off-label use of these drugs for weight loss is raising questions about unforeseen consequences, particularly for those whose livelihood depends on their voice.
Slovak Singer’s Experience Highlights Potential Risks
Brigita Szelidová, a Slovak singer with over three decades of experience in the music industry, recently revealed that her vocal range has been significantly diminished after using Ozempic. According to a report in Plus 7 DNÍ, Szelidová was officially prescribed Ozempic by a doctor to manage diabetes. Despite the benefits in regulating her blood sugar and aiding weight loss, she acknowledges a potential link between the medication and the loss of her vocal capabilities. “I had a large range, that is gone,” she stated, adding that even simpler songs are now challenging to perform.
Szelidová’s career includes work as a backing vocalist for prominent Slovak artists such as Peter Nagy, Rob Grigorov, and Fredy Ayisi. She also spent three seasons performing at the Slovak National Theatre and released the album Duets in 2018, earning several accolades. Her candid admission about the impact of Ozempic on her voice serves as a cautionary tale within the music community.
Pressure to Use Weight Loss Drugs in the Performing Arts
The case of Brigita Szelidová isn’t isolated. Concerns are growing within the opera world, with singers reportedly feeling pressured to use weight loss drugs to remain competitive. A GB News report from June 30, 2025, details how an article in The Times highlighted this increasing pressure. The fear of losing roles to performers who are perceived as meeting current body image standards is driving some singers to consider these medications, despite potential risks.
The issue extends beyond opera. The broader performing arts industry often places a significant emphasis on physical appearance, and the availability of quick weight loss solutions like Ozempic may exacerbate existing pressures. While Szelidová emphasizes that she uses the drug for a legitimate medical reason – diabetes – the accessibility and promotion of Ozempic for cosmetic purposes are contributing to a complex situation.
Ozempic: Beyond Diabetes and Weight Loss
Ozempic, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, works by mimicking the effects of the GLP-1 hormone, which regulates appetite and blood glucose levels. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes management, it has gained popularity for its weight loss effects. The drug promotes feelings of fullness, leading to reduced food intake. However, the side effects, beyond vocal impairment, are still being studied. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. More serious, though less common, side effects can include pancreatitis and gallbladder problems.
Szelidová’s experience suggests a previously less-publicized potential side effect: impact on vocal cords, and range. The exact mechanism behind This represents currently unclear, but it’s speculated that the rapid weight loss and potential metabolic changes induced by Ozempic could affect the muscles and tissues involved in vocal production. Further research is needed to determine the extent of this risk and identify potential mitigation strategies.
A Broader Conversation About Health and Performance
The situation raises broader questions about the intersection of health, body image, and professional performance. While maintaining a healthy weight is important for overall well-being, the pressure to conform to specific aesthetic standards can be detrimental, particularly in industries where physical appearance is heavily scrutinized. The use of medications like Ozempic, even when medically prescribed, requires careful consideration of potential side effects and long-term consequences.
Another singer shared a positive experience with Ozempic on Facebook, stating the drug “saved” her after undergoing surgeries and procedures that slowed her progress. This highlights the varied experiences individuals can have with the medication.
The case of Brigita Szelidová serves as a stark reminder that even medications prescribed for legitimate medical conditions can have unforeseen consequences. As the use of Ozempic and similar drugs continues to rise, it’s crucial for individuals, particularly those in professions that rely on specific physical capabilities, to be fully informed about the potential risks and benefits before making any decisions. The performing arts community, in particular, needs to engage in a thoughtful conversation about health, body image, and the pressures faced by performers in a rapidly changing landscape.
the discussion on Facebook points to a potential future where preventative use of Ozempic becomes more common, even for those not yet diagnosed with diabetes, to avoid future health complications. This raises ethical questions about the medicalization of weight management and the potential for widespread, long-term effects.
