Ozempic (Semaglutide)
is a once-weekly injection designed for improving blood sugar levels in adults
with type 2 diabetes mellitus.It's also used to lower the risk of major
cardiovascular events (such as stroke or heart attack) and death in adults with
type 2 diabetes who have heart disease.Ozempic should be part of a diabetes
management plan that includes diet and exercise.It's important to note that
Ozempic is not intended for use in type 1 diabetes mellitus, and it is not FDA
approved for weight loss.
How Does
Injection Ozempic Work?
- Ozempic falls into a class of medications called
glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists or incretin mimetics.
- It functions by binding to GLP-1 receptors, which has several
effects:
- Stimulating insulin release from the pancreas when
necessary.
- Reducing sugar release from the liver.
- Slowing down the emptying of the stomach.
- Lowering A1C and blood sugar levels.
- Potentially reducing appetite.
Warnings:
- Contact your doctor immediately if you notice signs of a
thyroid tumor, such as swelling or a lump in your neck, difficulty
swallowing, hoarseness, or shortness of breath.
- Ozempic should not be used if you have multiple endocrine
neoplasia type 2 (tumors in your glands) or a personal/family history of
medullary thyroid cancer.
Before Taking
Injection Ozempic 0.25 mg :
- Do not use Ozempic if you are allergic to semaglutide or any
other ingredients in the medication.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of stomach or
intestinal disorders, pancreatitis, kidney disease, or eye problems caused
by diabetes (retinopathy).
- Ozempic was associated with thyroid tumors or thyroid cancer
in animal studies; consult your doctor about your risk.
- If you plan to become pregnant, stop using Ozempic at least 2
months before trying to conceive.
How to Use Ozempic:
- Use Ozempic precisely as prescribed by your doctor.
- Administered as a subcutaneous injection (under the skin)
once a week, at any time of the day, with or without food.
- The injection site is typically the abdomen, thigh, or upper
arm, and it should not be injected into the same spot two times in a row.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible within 5
days. If more than 5 days have passed, skip the missed dose and continue
with the regular schedule.
- Do not use different brands of semaglutide (Wegovy or
Rybelsus) simultaneously.
- Monitor your blood sugar levels as they can be affected by
various factors, including stress, illness, surgery, exercise, alcohol
consumption, or skipping meals.
What to Avoid While
Using Ozempic:
- Never share your Ozempic injection pen, even if you change
the needle, as this can transmit infections or diseases.
Common Side Effects of
Ozempic:
- Seek emergency medical help if you experience signs of an
allergic reaction (hives, itching, dizziness, fast heartbeats, difficulty
breathing, facial swelling).
- Ozempic may cause other serious side effects, including
changes in vision, mood swings, heart palpitations, light-headedness,
thyroid tumor symptoms, pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, low blood sugar,
kidney problems, or stomach flu symptoms.
- Common side effects may include low blood sugar, upset
stomach, heartburn, burping, gas, bloating, nausea, vomiting, stomach
pain, constipation, diarrhea, runny nose, sore throat, headache,
dizziness, and tiredness.
Please note that this
summary provides a structured presentation. Always follow your healthcare
provider's recommendations and guidance for using Ozempic or any other
medication.