Beyond the Buzz: What You Really Need to Know About Ozempic

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide, a medication classified as a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist. It is administered as a once-weekly injection.

How Does Ozempic Work?

Semaglutide mimics the action of the natural GLP-1 hormone, which is released after eating. This hormone plays a key role in regulating blood sugar levels through several mechanisms:

• Stimulating insulin release: When blood sugar is high, Ozempic helps the pancreas release more insulin.
• Reducing glucagon production: It lowers the amount of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar, produced by the liver.
• Slowing gastric emptying: This helps you feel full longer and can reduce food intake.

What is Ozempic Used For?

In the UK, Ozempic is licensed and approved specifically for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults. It is prescribed to:

• Improve blood sugar control (lower HbA1c levels) when diet and exercise alone are not sufficient.
• Reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events (like heart attack or stroke) in adults with type 2 diabetes and existing heart disease.
• Lower the risk of kidney function decline in adults with both type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.

Important Note on Ozempic and Weight Loss

While some people with type 2 diabetes using Ozempic experience weight loss, it is not licensed as a weight-loss medication in the UK. Another medication, Wegovy, contains a higher dose of semaglutide and is specifically approved for weight management. Prescribing practices are carefully managed to ensure Ozempic is available for those with type 2 diabetes.

Potential Side Effects

As with any medication, Ozempic can cause side effects. Common side effects, especially when starting treatment, may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation. These often subside over time. More serious side effects are possible, though less common. Always discuss any side effects with your doctor.

Important Considerations

• Ozempic is a prescription-only medication.
• It is not for use in type 1 diabetes.
• It is most effective when used alongside a healthy lifestyle.

Contraindications

Ozempic is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) or in those with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Additionally, it should not be used in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to semaglutide or any of its excipients. Caution is also advised in patients with a history of pancreatitis, and it is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Dosing

Ozempic (semaglutide) is initiated at a subcutaneous dose of 0.25 mg once weekly for 4 weeks. The dose is then gradually escalated every 4 weeks to 0.5 mg, then 1 mg, and finally to a maximum recommended dose of 2 mg once weekly, based on individual glycaemic control and tolerability. This titration strategy is crucial for mitigating gastrointestinal side effects.

Ozempic vs. Wegovy

It’s important to understand the difference between Ozempic and Wegovy. Both contain the same active ingredient (semaglutide), but they are licensed for different purposes and have different dosages. Ozempic is for type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is for weight management.

Disclaimer

This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here.