Ozempic 101: What to Know

Ozempic has gained significant attention as both a diabetes medication and weight management tool. If you're considering this treatment or your healthcare provider has recommended it, understanding what Ozempic is and how it works can help you make informed decisions about your health.

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide, a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. Originally developed to help manage type 2 diabetes, Ozempic mimics a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) that your body naturally produces.

This medication comes as a pre-filled injection pen that patients typically use once weekly. The active ingredient works by stimulating insulin production when blood sugar levels are high and slowing down digestion, which helps regulate blood glucose levels.

What is Ozempic Prescribed For?

Ozempic's primary FDA-approved use is treating adults with type 2 diabetes. The medication helps lower blood sugar levels when used alongside diet and exercise. It's particularly effective because it works in multiple ways:

• Stimulates insulin release when blood sugar is elevated
• Reduces glucose production by the liver
• Slows gastric emptying, which helps prevent blood sugar spikes after meals

Weight loss is a common side effect noted by those prescribed Ozempic. This occurs because the medication affects appetite regulation and slows digestion, leading to increased feelings of fullness. While weight loss isn't the primary indication for Ozempic, this effect has made it popular among healthcare providers treating patients with obesity-related conditions.

Precautions and Side Effects When Using Ozempic

Certain individuals should avoid Ozempic or use it with extreme caution:

• People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
• Patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
• Individuals with a history of severe gastrointestinal disease
• Those with diabetic retinopathy complications

Most patients tolerate Ozempic well, but some experience side effects, particularly when starting treatment:

• Gastrointestinal effects are the most common and may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. These symptoms often improve as your body adjusts to the medication.
• Injection site reactions such as redness, swelling, or itching may occur but are typically mild and temporary.
• Pancreatitis: Severe abdominal pain that may radiate to your back
• Kidney problems: Changes in urination, swelling, or unusual fatigue
• Severe allergic reactions: Difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat, or severe rash

What to Expect When Starting Ozempic

Healthcare providers typically start patients on a low dose and gradually increase it to minimize side effects. The standard starting dose is 0.25 mg once weekly for four weeks, then increasing to 0.5 mg weekly. Some patients may eventually increase to 1 mg weekly based on their response and tolerance. Your healthcare provider will teach you proper injection technique and help you establish a consistent weekly schedule. The medication can be injected into your thigh, upper arm, or abdomen.

Success with Ozempic often depends on combining the medication with healthy lifestyle changes. Your healthcare provider may recommend specific dietary modifications and exercise routines that complement the medication's effects. Staying hydrated, eating smaller meals, and avoiding high-fat foods can help minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Regular communication with your healthcare team ensures you get the most benefit from treatment while minimizing risks.