Always take the time to read the manufacturer’s Product Insert that comes with the medication. Not all side effects are listed here. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of these or other unexpected effects.
The reported side effects associated with all GLP-1 treatments are:
- Risk of pancreatitis
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Flatulence
- Constipation
Generally, these are mild and should clear within a few weeks of the commencement of treatment. However, if they persist, or worsen, consult with the prescribing physician immediately. You can read more about the possible side effects here.Â
While it is not known that Ozempic will cause thyroid tumors, consult with the prescribing physician if you have trouble swallowing, hoarseness, shortness of breath, or notice a lump or swelling in your neck. These could be symptoms of thyroid cancer.
The benefits from usage of Ozempic are:
- Improved glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes
- Reduced risk of adverse cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes who have pre-existing cardiovascular disease
- Weight reduction.
Dosage and Administration
Usually, the dosage starts at 0.25 mg once weekly. After four doses, it will be increased to 0.5 mg each week. Possible further increases may be prescribed by your doctor at the end of each four weeks if the results indicate that higher doses are needed.
Ozempic is self-administered from the supplied kit containing a pre-filled pen with one month’s supply (four doses plus needles). The kit should be kept refrigerated.
It is advisable when you take the first dose to be under supervision, since there have been reports of a very small number of people suffering anaphylactic shock with the first administration of Ozempic. Your doctor or nurse should show you how to self-administer.
Ozempic should be administered once weekly on the same day and at the same time of day, with or without meals. If a dose is missed, administer one within five days of the skipped one, but do not double-dose! Ozempic should be injected just under the skin into the upper thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. Swap injection sites on a four-week cycle so that you are not injecting into the same area each week. At the very least, do not inject closer than 15 centimeters (6 inches) from the previous week’s site.
The FDA has also approved it for prescription to obese adults to help them lose weight. The administration is exactly the same as for diabetic patients. It is not used for the control of type 1 diabetes.
Before injecting, check that the Ozempic pen is clear and doesn’t contain any particles or discoloration. If it does, immediately replace that pen.
Do not share your Ozempic pen with other people, even if the needle has been replaced. The dosage in the pen has been calibrated for your personal requirements. You could also cause or receive a serious infection.