If you or someone you know is living with type 2 diabetes, you may have heard about a medication called Ozempic (Semaglutide). This once-weekly injection is making waves for its ability to help people manage their blood sugar levels and improve overall health. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Ozempic in simple terms.

Ozempic is a prescription medication used to help adults with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels. It contains an active ingredient called semaglutide, which belongs to a group of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking a natural hormone in your bod

y that helps control blood sugar. They do this by:

• • Encouraging your pancreas to release insulin when your blood sugar is high
  • Reducing the amount of sugar your liver produces
  • Slowing down how quickly food leaves your stomachThese actions help keep your blood sugar levels steady throughout the day.

Ozempic is an injection that you take once a week. You can inject it in your:

• • Abdomen (stomach area)
  • Thigh
  • Upper arm

It doesn’t matter if you take it with or without food. Your doctor will usually start you on a low dose and then gradually increase it to find the right amount for you.

There are tablet forms of Semaglutide available that are taken orally.

Common Dosage Plan:

• • Week 1 to Week 4: 0.25 mg once a week
  • Week 5 and Beyond: 0.5 mg once a week
  • Maximum Dose: 1 mg once a week (if needed)

Make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions on how to use Ozempic and never change your dose without talking to them first.

Ozempic helps people with type 2 diabetes in several ways:

Improves Blood Sugar Control
Ozempic helps reduce high blood sugar levels, especially after meals.

Helps with Weight Loss
Many people who take Ozempic notice that they lose weight. This is because the medication helps you feel full for longer, which can reduce how much you eat.

Lowers Risk of Heart Disease
For people with type 2 diabetes and heart disease, Ozempic can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

In addition to its use in managing type 2 diabetes, Ozempic has also been approved for weight management in adults who are overweight or obese. The medication works by helping to control appetite, leading to reduced calorie intake and, ultimately, weight loss.

Who Can Use Ozempic for Weight Management?

Ozempic can be prescribed for weight management if you:

• • Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher (obesity)
  • Have a BMI of 27 or higher (overweight) and have at least one weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol

Studies have shown that people using Ozempic for weight management experienced significant weight loss over time compared to those using a placebo.

Like any medication, Ozempic can cause side effects. Here are some of the most common ones:

• • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Decreased appetite

These side effects often improve as your body gets used to the medication. However, there are also some serious risks to be aware of:

Serious Risks Include:

• • Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
  • Kidney problems
  • Thyroid tumors (rare)

If you experience severe stomach pain, trouble breathing, or swelling in your neck, contact your doctor immediately.

Who Should Not Take Ozempic?

Ozempic is not suitable for everyone. You should avoid taking this medication if you:

• • Have a personal or family history of thyroid cancer
  • Have a condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding

Always talk to your doctor before starting any new medication.

Tips for Using Ozempic Safely

To get the most out of your Ozempic treatment, follow these tips:

Stick to Your Dosing Schedule

• • Take your injection on the same day each week to help you remember.

Store It Properly

• • Keep your Ozempic pen in the fridge before you open it. After opening, you can store it at room temperature for up to 56 days.

Monitor Your Blood Sugar

• • Regularly check your blood sugar levels to see how the medication is working.

Conclusion

Ozempic is a powerful tool for managing type 2 diabetes and weight. It can help improve blood sugar control, support weight loss, and reduce the risk of serious health problems like heart disease. However, it’s important to use it correctly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

If you think Ozempic might be right for you, talk to your doctor or visit BeyBee Pharmacy for more information. Our pharmacists are always here to help!

Author
Dr. Lawrence Asamoah Adutwum (Pharmacist)