Ozempic (semaglutide)

What is Ozempic (Semaglutide)?

Ozempic is a brand name for Semaglutide which is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs called anti-diabetics, Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Agonists.

• Ozempic is not an insulin
• Ozempic is not indicted for treatment with type 1 diabetes
• Ozempic has not been studied in patients with pancreatitis and should not be used by patients who have had a history of this condition (pancreatitis).
• It is not known if it is safe and effective for adults under the age of 18 years of age

Ozempic is used in combination with diet and exercise to help improve glycemic control and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications (CV death, nonfatal stroke, and nonfatal myocardial infarction).

In addition to lowering blood glucose levels, Ozempic aids patients with weight loss, appetite suppression, and lowering blood pressure levels.

How is Ozempic used?

Ozempic can be used alone or with other medications. It is administered as a weekly injection. It is available as a single-use injection pen that is safe and easy to use.

Storage

Does Ozempic need to be refrigerated?

Yes. If you have excess Ozempic injectable pens, they should be stored in the refrigerator. The ideal storage is the top shelf of the refrigerator and away from cooling elements. Semaglutide may degrade if the injectable pen is exposed to extreme cold. This can impact the effectiveness of the medication and potentially higher blood sugar levels. We offer 6 week plan ozempic weight loss results

Ozempic should be stored in the refrigerator between 36-47°F (2-8°C). After the pen has been used it can be kept within room temperature 59-86°F (5-30°C).

Instructions

Patients should be informed by their doctors about the potential risks and benefits of using Ozempic. It’s important for patients to maintain a proper diet, regular exercise, regularly monitor glucose levels and perform A1c testing, and understand the symptoms of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia as part of their treatment. While using Ozempic, if patients experience periods of stress, fever, infection, trauma, or surgery they should seek medical advice as the dosage may need to be adjusted.

Doctors should instruct their patients to read the Medication Guide each time their prescription is renewed.

It’s important to understand the side effects as explained by your doctor or pharmacist. Side effects of Ozempic typically include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

If a dose is missed, it should be administered immediately within 5 days of the missed dose If more than 5 days have elapsed then the dose should be skipped.

SIDE EFFECTS

Although Ozempic is FDA approved and considered safe when taken as instructed however this does not mean it comes without side effects.

Before you start Ozempic, you should discuss the possible side effects with your doctor or pharmacist. You should also review the FDA-approved labeling and instructions that come with your prescription.

Ozempic has a boxed warning about the risk of C-cell tumors that have occurred in rodents. Even though it is unknown about the effects on humans, it isn’t advised for those who have a history of thyroid cancer in their family.

Common Side Effects

Patients using Ozempic have experienced mild or serious side effects. Side effects typically go away within a few days or weeks. If they do not go away, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

The list below does not include all possible side effects:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Constipation
• Upset Stomach
• Flatulence (passing gas)

Serious Side Effects

Serious adverse reactions while taking Ozempic aren’t common. If you experience any serious side effects while taking this medication, inform your doctor or call 911 if you feel the symptoms are life-threatening.

Serious side effects and symptoms while taking Ozempic may include:

• Symptoms of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas):

  • back and abdominal pain
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • unintended weight loss
  • fever
  • swollen belly

• Symptoms of Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar):

  • confusion
  • dizziness
  • drowsiness
  • fast heart rate
  • feeling jittery
  • headache
  • hunger
  • irritability
  • sweating
  • weakness

• Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy (diabetes-related eye complication):

  • blurred vision
  • poor night vision
  • seeing dark spots
  • vision loss

• Symptoms of kidney damage:

  • confusion
  • fatigue
  • reduced urination
  • nausea
  • swelling in legs or ankles
• Thyroid cancer*
• Allergic reaction*