Ozempic: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is the brand name of Semaglutide, and it is an antidiabetic drug that pertains to the class of medicines called glucagon-like-peptide-1 receptor agonists. Ozempic is available as a self-injectable pen. 

It helps treat type 2 diabetes mellitus in individuals who respond less to primary line treatment. Ozempic regulates the proper release of insulin into the body when the blood glucose levels are high.  

Ozempic injection causes loss of appetite and slows down digestion, which ultimately leads to weight loss. Doctors can prescribe Ozempic alone or along with other medications.

What are the uses of Ozempic?

Uses of the Ozempic injection are: 

  • It controls blood sugar levels in obese individuals with type 2 diabetes, along with a proper diet and exercise routine.
  • As per one study, Ozempic decreases the risk of death by heart attacks, strokes and high blood pressure in people with type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
  • Using this medication can reduce your chances of suffering from diabetes-related conditions such as kidney failure, loss of vision, nerve damage or gum disease. 

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    What are the side effects of Ozempic?

    he Ozempic injection can cause many side effects. They are as follows:

    Common side effects:

    • Heartburn
    • Burping
    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
    • Diarrhoea
    • Constipation

     Rare side effects:

    • Changes in vision
    • Increase in the heart rate
    • Dizziness
    • Swelling in legs, ankles, or feet
    • Low urine output
    • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
    • Rashes and itching

    If you’re taking Ozempic and have any of the above symptoms, consult our doctors at Yashoda Hospitals for better treatment.

    What is Ozempic

    Uses of Ozempic

    Side effects of Ozempic

    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Ozempic

    You can take Ozempic injections of the day, with or without food. You should take the dose on the same day of every week. If you want to change the day of administering the injection, keep in mind that two doses must be two days apart.

    There is no need to avoid any foods while taking Ozempic. However, limit refined foods, processed carbs, sweetened beverages, high-fat meat, and full-fat dairy products. Try to have a controlled portion of healthy food that helps you get the required nutrients and gets easily digested.

    Ozempic is a long-acting drug, i.e., it is slowly absorbed and stays in the tissues for a long time before excretion. Your blood sugar levels will start declining after the initial dose, but it will take around eight weeks or more to get the full benefit of the medication.

    Yes, you can inject Ozempic under the skin in the front part of the thighs. Try to change the area per dose. Take precautions while injecting the medication and try not to take the needle so deep that it reaches a muscle or vein. Also, make sure that you inject the dosage completely.

    Ozempic slows your digestion and makes you feel fuller for a prolonged period, leading to a loss of appetite. Ozempic works by regulating the release of insulin into the blood to avoid spikes in blood sugar levels. Thus, this medication plays a direct role in lowering your appetite.

    According to the SUSTAIN-6 study, a few individuals with pre-existing retinopathy who were administered Ozempic experienced an increase in eye problems such as blurred vision, swelling, or bleeding in the back of the eye. Therefore, the use of Ozempic can increase the chances of eye-related complications.

    You should stop long-acting drugs such as Ozempic 2-3 days before surgery and even longer if you have other serious health problems such as chronic kidney disease or a high risk of bleeding. Inform your doctor about the usage of prescription drugs or herbal products in advance to know when to stop those medications.

    In rare cases, the use of Ozempic may cause anxiety and mood swings, irritability, shakiness, and confusion. However, when you take other medications along with Ozempic, it may escalate anxiety or mood change. Hence, discuss these potential issues with your physician beforehand to avoid any side effects.

    You should take the Ozempic injection as a shot into your skin in the stomach (abdomen), front of thighs, or upper arms. It is advisable to rotate the injection area each time you inject. You should inject it only under your skin and not into a vein or a muscle.

    Ozempic may not increase your urination but can alter your urine output depending on your health condition. People with hyperglycemia experience an urge for high thirst and frequent urination. Ozempic helps reduce symptoms related to kidney disease.

     

    Take a medical opinion, and learn the best ways to manage your diabetes before starting any medication. Consult the team of experts at Yashoda Hospitals for any medical help.