Recently, Oprah Winfrey faced a health scare that led to her brief hospitalization, stirring rumors about the potential side effects of her weight loss medication, Oic. Oprah, who has openly discussed her journey with weight loss, attributed her hospitalization to a severe case of stomach flu, not complications from her medication. Her close friend, Gail King, confirmed this during a segment on CBS Mornings, explaining that Oprah was severely dehydrated and required an IV drip, but was now recovering.

Oprah’s health has been a subject of public interest for decades, especially since she has been a long-time advocate for body positivity and weight management. In recent years, she has championed the use of weight loss medications like Oic, sharing how it has been a tool for her to manage her weight effectively. Despite her openness about the benefits, she has not been as vocal about the potential side effects, which has led to public speculation following her recent health issue.

The controversy surrounding Oprah’s hospitalization stems from wider concerns about the safety of weight loss medications. Many have pointed to high-profile cases of severe side effects, such as the death of Naomi Rooney in June 2022 after taking Oic. Other individuals have also reported serious health issues after using weight loss injections, fueling skepticism about their safety.

Oprah, however, has expressed her gratitude for the availability of medically approved weight management tools like Oic. In a December 2023 interview with People, she revealed how she had internalized shame over her weight for years, but now views the medication as a “relief” and a way to stop the cycle of yo-yo dieting. Despite the ongoing debate, Oprah stands by her decision to use Oic, emphasizing that it is a personal choice and an option for those who seek it.

While social media buzzed with speculation about whether Oprah’s hospitalization was related to the medication, both she and Gail King have dismissed these claims, maintaining that it was simply a stomach flu. Nevertheless, the incident has reignited discussions about the safety and long-term effects of weight loss medications, with some questioning whether Oprah will address these concerns in the future.