Serena Williams Opens Up About Weight Loss Journey with GLP-1 Drugs

Tennis icon Serena Williams has shared her experience with weight loss medications. The 43-year-old athlete described encountering a previously unknown challenge after giving birth to her children. Despite adhering to a strict regimen of exercise and a healthy diet, her body was not responding as it once did. She felt her body was lacking something essential.

Williams found her solution in GLP-1 medications. The campaign promoting her experience states she has lost 31 pounds in eight months with these drugs, though the specific medication used is not disclosed. Before partnering with Ro, she had used another GLP-1 provider. These drugs work by mimicking a hormone that signals fullness and regulates blood sugar levels. While Ozempic is primarily used for diabetes, other GLP-1 medications are approved for weight loss.

Williams, now a celebrity patient ambassador for Ro, also addressed the stigma often associated with these medications. She emphasized that using them is not an "easy way out" but rather a courageous act of self-care. In a recent interview, Williams shared that she feels significantly better, both physically and mentally. She reported increased energy levels, reduced joint pain, and improved mobility.

Williams is not the first prominent figure to discuss using these medications. Oprah Winfrey revealed her use of a weight-loss medication in 2023. The popularity of these drugs has also been fueled by social media videos showcasing dramatic weight loss transformations.

However, these medications are not without potential risks. Common side effects include nausea, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, and vomiting. Some individuals have reported severe gastrointestinal issues, including gastroparesis. There are also uncertainties regarding the long-term effects of these drugs on the body.