What is Ozempic®?
Ozempic (Semaglutide) is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medication used to manage Type 2 diabetes and lower the risk of major cardiovascular (heart) events like heart attack, stroke, or death in individuals with both Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
While Ozempic is primarily used as a diabetes medication, it has gained attention for its off-label use in weight loss. Healthcare providers prescribe it off-label because studies show that Semaglutide helps people lose significant weight by mimicking a natural hormone, GLP-1, which regulates appetite. Ozempic is a brand name of Semaglutide manufactured by Novo Nordisk.
Benefits of Ozempic®
Ozempic (Semaglutide) offers multiple benefits, especially for people with Type 2 diabetes and those struggling with weight loss. In addition to helping manage blood sugar levels as a diabetes medication, Ozempic can promote weight loss by reducing food cravings and keeping the appetite-regulating hormones stable. In a clinical trial conducted for 68 weeks, people taking Semaglutide 2.4 mg lost a 14.9% change in their total body weight. Moreover, Ozempic helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with diabetes, improving heart health while also helping to curb cravings and hunger.
Many clinical trials were funded by Novo Nordisk on different patient demographics to test Semaglutide for its effects on weight loss and control of blood sugar levels. The researchers also noted that other health marker improvements improve overall health and quality of life
How Does Ozempic® Work?
Ozempic is a synthetic version of the natural hormone GLP-1, which the body releases when you eat. The GLP-1 hormone lowers blood sugar by stimulating insulin production, helping cells absorb glucose for energy use. In some individuals with Type 2 diabetes or obesity, the gut doesn't release enough GLP-1, or the brain doesn’t respond properly to it.
As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, Ozempic activates these same cell receptors as the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone in our bodies, slowing digestion, reducing hunger, and signaling fullness to the brain. This leads to fewer calorie intakes and gradual weight loss. Since Ozempic is supplementing what the body lacks, it is meant for long-term use.
Semaglutide may not work for everyone, and it is important to consult with your healthcare provider to assess which medication is best suited for you. Aayu Well Healthcare ensures thorough assessment and evaluation to build a plan tailored to your needs.
How to use it
Physicians usually instruct patients to take Ozempic once weekly, under the skin (subcutaneous injection) in areas such as the upper arm, thigh, or stomach. It’s important to rotate the injection sites to avoid irritation. Always store Ozempic in a refrigerator and follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully. It’s also crucial to continue a healthy diet and regular exercise while using the medication to achieve the best results.
Dosing
- The initial dose of Ozempic usually begins at 0.25 mg for the first four weeks. Afterward, the dosage may be increased to 0.5 mg per week starting in week 5. The healthcare provider may adjust the dose depending on the treatment plan and how well the medication is tolerated; the dose can be increased to 1 mg or 2 mg weekly for better glycemic control and enhanced weight loss.
Side effects
- While Ozempic is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects, particularly as the body adjusts to the medication. You may also experience the following side effects: nausea (most common), vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and fatigue. These gastrointestinal side effects often occur at the beginning of treatment and decrease over time. However, Ozempic can cause rapid weight loss that may lead to muscle loss. You need to prioritize strength training to support and protect your muscles while taking Ozempic.
- If you experience these symptoms, please seek immediate attention if your symptoms persist or worsen.
- Gastroparesis (stomach paralysis): Symptoms such as persistent bloating, acid reflux, and vomiting undigested food may signal delayed stomach emptying (gastroparesis).
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas): Severe pain in the abdomen or back that doesn’t go away may indicate inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis).
Black Box Warning
- Ozempic (Semaglutide) has a black box warning regarding the potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors, as observed in animal studies. If you have a painless lump in your neck (the lump may grow gradually), trouble swallowing, change in your voice (hoarseness), or have difficulty swallowing, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
- As a precaution, the FDA warns patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should avoid using Ozempic (Semaglutide).
Precautions
- Before you start Ozempic (Semaglutide), inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of pancreatitis, a history of thyroid cancer, kidney disease, liver problems, or gastrointestinal issues.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not take Ozempic (Semaglutide) because it is not known if it will harm your unborn baby or pass into your breast milk.
- Ozempic (Semaglutide) is not for insulin-dependent diabetics (type 1 diabetes). When Ozempic (Semaglutide) is taken with insulin and the insulin dose is reduced too quickly, it can lead to high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), which increases the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Interactions
- Ozempic (Semaglutide) can interact with other medications, potentially affecting how they work. Tell your doctor about all medications you’re taking, including:
- Insulin or sulfonylureas: Taking Ozempic with these diabetic medications can lead to dangerously low blood sugar levels.
- Other GLP-1 medications: Avoid using Ozempic with other GLP-1 receptor agonists like liraglutide or dulaglutide.
- Birth control pills: The medication may alter the effectiveness of some contraceptives, so consult with your healthcare provider.
- Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medications while using Ozempic (Semaglutide).
