Your Guide to Ozempic for Diabetes – What You Need Know

## What is Ozempic?

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable medication used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults. It is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which means it works by mimicking the effects of GLP-1, a hormone that helps control blood sugar levels. Ozempic is not a cure for diabetes, but it can help lower A1C levels, reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, and promote weight loss.

How does Ozempic work?

Ozempic works by increasing the production of insulin, a hormone that helps the body use glucose for energy. It also slows down the absorption of food in the stomach, which can help lower blood sugar levels after a meal.

Ozempic is unique in that it is designed to be taken once a week, which can improve compliance and make it easier for people to manage their diabetes.

What are the benefits of Ozempic?

Ozempic has several benefits for people with type 2 diabetes, including:

- Lower A1C levels: Ozempic can significantly reduce A1C levels, a measure of average blood sugar control over the past 2-3 months.

- Reduced risk of cardiovascular events: Ozempic has been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, in people with type 2 diabetes.

- Promotes weight loss: Ozempic can help promote weight loss, which can benefit people with type 2 diabetes.

- Once-weekly dosing: Ozempic is taken once a week, which can improve compliance and make it easier to manage diabetes.

What are the side effects of Ozempic?

The most common side effects of Ozempic include:

- Nausea

- Vomiting

- Diarrhea

- Constipation

- Headache

- Fatigue

- Abdominal pain

- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

- Injection site reactions

These side effects are usually mild and go away within a few weeks of starting treatment. However, if you experience severe or persistent side effects, talk to your doctor.

Who should not take Ozempic?

Ozempic is not recommended for people with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. It is also not recommended for people who are allergic to semaglutide or any of the other ingredients in Ozempic.

How to take Ozempic

Ozempic is injected once a week under the skin. The dose is determined by your doctor, based on your blood sugar levels and response to treatment.

To inject Ozempic:

1. Wash your hands and the injection site with soap and water.

2. Remove the needle cap from the pre-filled pen.

3. Insert the needle into the skin at a 45-degree angle.

4. Push the plunger down slowly until the dose is delivered.

5. Remove the needle from the skin and discard the pen.

Missed doses

If you miss a dose of Ozempic, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose on schedule. Do not take a double dose of Ozempic.

Storage

Store Ozempic in the refrigerator at a temperature between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C). Do not freeze Ozempic. Protect it from light.

Warnings and precautions

Ozempic should be used with caution in people with certain medical conditions, including:

- Kidney disease

- Liver disease

- Retinopathy (eye disease)

- Stomach or intestinal problems

- Personal or family history of thyroid cancer

Talk to your doctor about your health conditions and any concerns you may have before starting Ozempic.

Conclusion

Ozempic is a once-weekly injectable medication that can help lower A1C levels, reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, and promote weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes. It is generally well-tolerated, with the most common side effects being nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, headache, fatigue, abdominal pain, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and injection site reactions. Ozempic should not be taken by people with type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, or allergies to semaglutide or any of the other ingredients in Ozempic. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about Ozempic.

What Diabetes Does to Your Body Can You Fast If You Have Diabetes?