Introduction of Ozempic (semaglutide)
A prescription injectable pen called Ozempic (semaglutide) is used in combination with a healthy diet and exercise to treat type 2 diabetes.Â
Among individuals with type 2 diabetes and heart disease, it has also been demonstrated to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart-related death.Â
Because it is just injected beneath the skin once each week, the dosing is convenient.Â
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are typical adverse reactions.Â
There is no generic version of it; it is only offered under the brand name Ozempic (semaglutide).
Adults with type 2 diabetes can use the once-weekly injectable drug Ozempic to help control their blood sugar levels.Â
Despite Ozempic not being classified as a weight loss medication, research indicates that those who use it may experience a slight weight reduction while doing so.Â
Semaglutide, the active component in Ozempic, is FDA-approved at higher doses for treating patients with obesity and other weight-related medical issues under the brand name Wegovy.
People without type 2 diabetes have started using Ozempic off-label for weight loss as a result of a shortage of Wegovy and the weight loss effects of Ozempic becoming viral on social media.
How does Ozempic work?
Ozempic functions similarly to naturally occurring GLP-1 in the body and has highly similar effects because it is 95% identical to human GLP-1. Examples of these actions include:
- When blood sugar levels are elevated, insulin release is increased.
- The circulation holds less of the glucose that the liver releases.
- Decreased appetite.
What is the dose of Ozempic (semaglutide)?
Ozempic starting dose
Ozempic’s starting dose is 0.25 mg, administered as a subcutaneous injection once each week for four weeks.
If the patient can tolerate the drug after this period, the dose should be increased to 0.5 mg once a week for at least three months, after which the effectiveness should be evaluated.
Ozempic maintenance dose
Depending on how well the medication works, this can be either 0.5mg or 1mg.
The long-term maintenance dose affects whether or not the blood glucose levels are acceptable.Â
Some people can keep taking 0.5mg injections once a week.Â
A further dose increase to 1mg is advised for individuals who do not respond adequately.
How many doses are there in an Ozempic (semaglutide) pen?
The 0.5 or 1mg Ozempic (semaglutide) injectable pen is available.
0.5 mg Ozempic injectable pens have a four-week shelf life.
The lifespan of two 1 mg Ozempic injectable pens is four weeks.
What are the possible side effects of Ozempic?
Ozempic may have harmful side effects, such as:
Inflammation of your pancreas (pancreatitis): If you get severe abdominal pain that won’t go away, whether you’re vomiting or not, stop taking Ozempic immediately and contact your doctor.Â
From your waist to your back, you might have soreness.
Vision changes: If your vision changes while on Ozempic, let your doctor know.
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): If you combine Ozempic with another medication that might result in low blood sugar, such as sulfonylurea or insulin, your risk of experiencing low blood sugar may increase.Â
Dizziness or lightheadedness, blurred vision, sweat, slurred speech, hunger, confusion or drowsiness, shakiness, weakness, headache, rapid heartbeat, and a jittery feeling indicate low blood sugar.
Kidney problems (kidney failure): Dehydration from diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting can worsen kidney issues in persons who already have them by causing fluid loss (dehydration).Â
To lessen your risk of dehydration, it would be better if you drank juice.
Gallbladder problems: Gallbladder problems have happened in some people who take Ozempic. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get symptoms which may include: pain in your upper stomach (abdomen), fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or clay-colored stools.
Severe allergic reactions:
- If you have any signs of a severe allergic response, such as swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat, stop using Ozempic immediately and seek medical attention.
- Breathing or swallowing issues.
- Extreme irritation or rash.
- Fainting or feeling dizzy.
- Rapid heartbeat.
Common side effects of Ozempic (Semaglutide)
The most common side effects of Ozempic (semaglutide) injection are:
- nausea
- diarrhoea
- vomiting
- abdominal pain
- decreased appetite
Serious side effects of Ozempic (Semaglutide)
Ozempic (semaglutide) may also cause more severe side effects, including:
- inflammation of the pancreas
- hypoglycemia
- allergic reactions