Before considering Ozempic as a treatment option, it’s vital to gather all the necessary information about the drug’s complexities, including its usage, dosage, and potential side effects. This FDA-approved medication, manufactured by Novo Nordisk, is a significant advancement in the healthcare industry for managing type 2 diabetes and weight issues. However, it’s not intended for the treatment of type 1 diabetes.
What Is Ozempic?
Ozempic, a semaglutide formulation by Novo Nordisk, is primarily used for treating type 2 diabetes in adults. It’s not approved for children’s use. Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist, is designed to reduce blood sugar levels and enhance glycemic control in patients. Another GLP-1, Victoza, contains liraglutide, not semaglutide.
What Are Ozempic Injections?
Ozempic injections refer to the drug’s administration method. Unlike some medicines, Ozempic is self-administered by patients through subcutaneous injection once weekly. This injection is performed with an Ozempic pen injector, a user-friendly hypodermic needle, akin to an EpiPen. Patients are advised to rotate injection sites and avoid injecting into veins or muscle tissue. It’s important to inspect the injection site for any signs of skin reaction, such as redness or swelling.
How Do Ozempic Injections Work?
Ozempic’s active ingredient, semaglutide, helps regulate blood sugars in the body by increasing insulin secretion from the pancreas when your blood sugar levels are high. It also suppresses appetite in some patients, which can aid weight management, especially when paired with a healthy diet and exercise.
How to Use an Ozempic Pen Injector
Novo Nordisk provides a comprehensive guide to using their Ozempic pens. If you’re unsure about these instructions, consult your medical team for assistance. Here are the general steps:
- Your Ozempic pen should be clearly labelled and contain clear, colorless fluid.
- Use a fresh needle every time, and ensure you safely dispose of it afterwards.
- Check and adjust the dose and flow of your pen before using.
- Inject Ozempic subcutaneously (i.e., into the fatty tissue, just beneath the skin), avoiding any muscle or veins.
Are There Side Effects of Using Ozempic Injections?
There are several serious potential side effects you could experience as a result of Ozempic injections. In clinical studies of Ozempic, the most commonly reported side effects were gastrointestinal upset (upset stomach), including nausea, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, gas, and burping, fatigue, dizziness, headache, shortness of breath, and changes in sense of taste.
What Precautions to Take with Ozempic Injections
The most crucial precaution to take with Ozempic injections is consulting with your medical team first. In Canada, Ozempic is only available by prescription. Semaglutide can have contraindications with other medications, so be sure to inform your medical team about any other prescription drugs you’re currently taking, including vitamins.
Understanding Ozempic Injection Interactions
There are 247 known drug interactions with Ozempic. It’s extremely important that your medical team has all the information regarding your prescription, over the counter, and illicit drug use. Do not use any drugs in conjunction with Ozempic without proper medical supervision and advice.
What to Do in Case of an Overdose
An Ozempic overdose will lead to hypoglycemia. Critically low blood sugar can be fatal and is characterized by shaking, dizziness, weakness, headache, nausea, vomiting, mood changes, seizure or fitting, unconsciousness, and eventual coma. In the event of an Ozempic overdose, it is critical to call the patient’s medical team immediately. If that medical team is unavailable, or symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to dial 911 for emergency help.
What to Do in Case of a Missed Dose
Ozempic is taken weekly. If you are still within five days of the missed dose, it’s not too late to take it. If you have passed five days, skip the dose and inform your medical team. Never double your dose—this can lead to a rapid and dangerous drop in blood sugar.
Tips for Storing Ozempic Injections
An unused Ozempic pen should be refrigerated at a temperature between 36–46ºF. In between uses, an Ozempic pen should be stored in a refrigerator, or kept at room temperature of 59–86ºF. Dispose of your Ozempic pen no later than 56 days after its first use.
How Often to Have Ozempic Injections?
Ozempic is designed to be administered once a week, every week. As always, follow your medical team’s advice, as this may differ per person.
Key Takeaways
Ozempic is a prescription medicine, used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, or to assist with weight management in those with a BMI of over 27. It should not be used in any context other than a medically-approved treatment plan. Always consult your medical team in regards to dosage, regime, and possible interactions with other drugs or illnesses. If you are experiencing adverse symptoms of Ozempic, contact your medical team or emergency services immediately.
Ozempic Injection FAQs
Who should not take Ozempic injections?
Certain people should not take Ozempic, such as those with type 1 diabetes, personal or family history of thyroid cancer, or allergies to semaglutide. It’s also important to consult your medical team if you’re pregnant or planning to be. For more information, Visit Cover.health.
Should I avoid certain foods while taking Ozempic injections?
While there are no specific foods to avoid when taking Ozempic, it’s advisable to avoid overly sweet or greasy meals if you experience nausea. It’s also recommended to eat heart-healthy foods as diabetes patients are at higher risk of heart disease. You can find more at Cover.health.
What conditions do Ozempic injections treat?
Ozempic injections are mainly used for treating patients with type 2 diabetes or those with a BMI over 27. For more details, Visit Cover.health.
If you experience any adverse reactions to this medication, report it to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. Always remember that any medication, including Ozempic, should be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Please note that the information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. For any health-related concerns, consult with a healthcare professional. The logo and site mentioned are trademarks of their respective owners. Always remember to discuss any medication with your family and healthcare provider.
