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Ozempic (Semaglutide) Specification

Requires Prescription (YES/NO): Yes

Generics: Semaglutide

Used For: Type 2 Diabetes management, weight management (in some cases)

Class: GLP-1 Receptor Agonist (Antidiabetic)

How It Works

Ozempic contains semaglutide, which mimics the natural hormone GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). It increases insulin release, reduces glucagon secretion, slows gastric emptying, and promotes satiety. This helps control blood sugar levels and supports weight loss.

Usage and Safety

Dosage:

  • Typically injected once weekly, starting with a low dose (0.25 mg) and gradually increased (up to 1 mg or 2 mg) as advised by a doctor.

  • Always administered subcutaneously (under the skin) in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm.

Side Effects:

  • Common: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain.

  • Rare but Serious: Pancreatitis, vision changes, kidney issues, thyroid tumors (in animal studies).

Drug Interactions:

  • May delay absorption of oral medicines.

  • Caution with insulin or sulfonylureas (risk of hypoglycemia).

  • Avoid excessive alcohol (increases risk of hypoglycemia).


🩺 Indication

Ozempic is prescribed for:

  • Type 2 diabetes mellitus (to improve blood glucose control).

  • Reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with diabetes and heart disease.

  • Weight management in some patients (doctor’s decision).


🚫 When Not to Use

Do not use Ozempic if:

  • You are allergic to semaglutide or its ingredients.

  • You have type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.

  • You have a personal/family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).

  • You have multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2).

⚠️ Precautions

  • Use with caution if you have kidney, liver, or gastrointestinal problems.

  • Not a substitute for insulin in insulin-dependent patients.

  • Monitor blood sugar regularly.

  • May cause weight loss—monitor in underweight patients.

⚠️ Warnings

  • Warning 1: Risk of thyroid C-cell tumors (observed in animals; relevance in humans uncertain).

  • Warning 2: May cause severe gastrointestinal side effects leading to dehydration.

  • Warning 3: Pancreatitis has been reported—stop and seek help if severe abdominal pain occurs.

Pregnancy Category

  • Not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding.

  • May cause harm to the unborn baby; discontinue if planning pregnancy.

  • Women should use effective contraception while on Ozempic.


Storage

  • Store in refrigerator (2–8°C) before first use.

  • After first use, can be kept at room temperature (below 30°C) or refrigerated, up to 56 days.

  • Do not freeze. Keep away from heat and sunlight.