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Product Information
What Is Ozempic (Semaglutide)?
Ozempic (semaglutide) is an injectable prescription medication produced by Novo Nordisk. It improves blood sugar control in adults with Type 2 Diabetes while also decreasing the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with Type 2 Diabetes and established heart disease.
A non-insulin diabetes medication belonging to the class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, Ozempic works with the body’s natural ability to lower blood glucose levels. It promotes the pancreatic release of insulin, reduces glucagon release from the liver, and slows down food leaving the stomach (gastric emptying). Ozempic is also associated with weight loss in many Type 2 Diabetes patients in combination with regular exercise and a healthy diet.
Ozempic’s active ingredient, semaglutide, is the only once-weekly injectable GLP-1 to be FDA-approved for weight management (under the name Wegovy).
- Ozempic and Wegovy are both produced by Novo Nordisk.
- They are identical, except that Wegovy has a higher maintenance dose (2.4 mg instead of 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg).
- Some doctors may prescribe Ozempic off-label for weight loss if they believe it will benefit a particular patient.
Ozempic is not indicated for people with Type 1 Diabetes, children under the age of 18, or patients with a personal or family history of certain types of thyroid cancer. It may also pose additional risks for patients with a history of pancreatitis, kidney disease, diabetic retinopathy, or gallbladder disease, as well as those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive. For a complete list of warnings and precautions, see the Warnings & Precautions and Ozempic Contraindications sections below.
How Is Ozempic Used?
Ozempic is typically self-injected once per week subcutaneously (under the skin of the stomach, abdomen, thigh, or upper arm). The standard protocol is to begin with a lower starting dose (0.25 mg) and build up to a higher maintenance dose (0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg) under the supervision of a doctor to increase tolerance and reduce side effects.
Storage
Ozempic should always be stored in a dry, cool location away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children and/or pets. Once opened, an Ozempic pen is good for up to 56 days and should be safely disposed of after this time period has passed, even if there is still medication remaining (be sure to follow all local and state regulations for the safe disposal of injectable needles).
Does Ozempic Need to Be Refrigerated?
Ozempic should be refrigerated until it’s opened. Once opened, you may store Ozempic either in the refrigerator or at room temperature. For more in-depth information, read our post on this topic.
Directions
Ozempic injection sites should be rotated weekly. In the event that you miss a dose, you may administer it within 5 days. After 5 days, simply skip the dose and wait until your next injection. Speak with your doctor if you miss one or more doses of Ozempic.
In consultation with your doctor, you’ll be shown how to cleanse the injection site, attach a clean needle to the Ozempic pen, select the correct dose using the dose counter dial, inject Ozempic, safely dispose of the needle, and properly store the remaining Ozempic for future injections.
Always follow the instructions that come with your prescription and contact your doctor or pharmacist with any questions.
Side Effects
As with all prescription medications, side effects may occur with Ozempic. Often, mild side effects will decrease over time as the body adjusts to new or higher doses of the drug.
Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Injection site reactions
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
Serious Side Effects
Though rare, these possible Ozempic side effects warrant immediate medical attention:
- Pancreatitis
- Severe low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Severe allergic reaction(s)
- Vision changes
- Kidney damage
- Gallbladder issues
- Liver issues
- The formation of thyroid tumors
Long-Term Safety
Type 2 Diabetes is a chronic disease, and Ozempic is designed to be a long-term treatment for managing it. Because Ozempic is a relatively new drug, its long-term effects are still being studied. Ozempic is believed to be safe overall for long-term usage, but the risk of some serious potential side effects may increase over time.
Side Effect Details
Some of Ozempic’s potential side effects are detailed below. For more details on Ozempic side effects, click here or speak with your doctor.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Gastrointestinal (GI) issues are the side effects most commonly associated with Ozempic (and all GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs). Often, GI problems are the worst as the body adjusts to new or increased doses of Ozempic and resolves over time. Avoiding greasy, highly processed, and sugary foods and beverages and getting plenty of fresh air can help with GI issues.
If you are still experiencing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal pain after adjusting to your maintenance dose of Ozempic, speak with your doctor.
Allergic Reactions
Mild allergic reactions to Ozempic may include skin rashes, itchiness, redness, or swelling. More serious allergic reactions (hypersensitivity) may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the mouth, tongue, or face, dizziness, or fainting.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is not usually associated with Ozempic alone but may occur if you are taking Ozempic in combination with other Diabetes medications, including insulin. Speak with your doctor about the potential risks of drug interactions and watch for symptoms of low blood sugar, including dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, slurred speech, sweating, and increased heart rate. If you experience severe hypoglycemia, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.
Note that alcohol consumption can also contribute to hypoglycemia. It is important to be careful about consuming alcohol if you are at risk of hypoglycemia while taking Ozempic. Speak with your doctor for more information based on your personal medical history.
Impact on Diabetic Retinopathy
Research into the relationship between semaglutide and Diabetic Retinopathy is ongoing, but studies so far have shown a slight increase in Diabetic Retinopathy complications in patients who have Type 2 Diabetes and high cardiovascular risk. A rapid improvement in glucose control, such as patients may experience when starting Ozempic, can be associated with worsening Diabetic Retinopathy. Seek medical advice immediately if you notice any vision changes while taking Ozempic.
Other Side Effects
Other less common Ozempic side effects to be aware of can include, but are not limited to, an increase in Amylase and Lipase, Cholelithiasis, increased heart rate, immunogenicity, and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). If you experience any unexpected side effects while taking Ozempic, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Drug Interactions
Ozempic is generally considered a safe medication to take with insulin and other drugs. That being said, disclose all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to your doctor before starting to take Ozempic. In addition, seek medical advice before starting any new supplements or medications while on the drug.
Medications That Shouldn’t Be Taken With Ozempic
Ozempic may interact negatively with a wide variety of different medications, including antibiotics, sulfonylureas, NSAIDs, MAOIs, oral medications, and more. Your doctor will be your best resource in determining how to safely manage multiple medications when adding Ozempic to your treatment plan.
Effects on Other Diabetes Medications
Potential complications, including hypoglycemia, can arise when Ozempic is taken in combination with other Diabetes medications. Follow the medical advice of your doctor when taking Ozempic and one or more other Diabetes medications.
Taking Ozempic With Blood Thinners or Heart Medications
Ozempic is generally considered safe to take with blood thinners and heart medications. Your doctor can provide more specifics based on your personal needs and circumstances.
Warnings & Precautions
- Ozempic pens should never be shared between people, even if the needle has been changed. This can lead to potential infections and diseases.
- Ozempic injection sites should be rotated with each injection.
- Ozempic should never be taken by patients with Type 1 Diabetes.
Ozempic Contraindications
Personal or Family History of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma
Ozempic has been associated with the formation of thyroid C-cell tumors in rodents. It’s advised not to use Ozempic if you or anyone in your family has ever had Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2 (MEN 2).
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis has been reported with Ozempic use. Watch for ongoing abdominal pain and nausea. Patients with a history of pancreatitis were excluded from Ozempic clinical trials; therefore, caution should be taken if you have a personal medical history of pancreatitis or other pancreas issues.
Patients With Severe Gastrointestinal Disease
Because Ozempic is often associated with GI issues, it is not recommended for use in patients with severe existing gastrointestinal diseases.
Severe Renal Impairment
Ozempic can negatively impact kidney function. Caution should be exercised in patients with existing renal impairment or a history of kidney disease or damage.
End-Stage Renal Disease
Patients with end-stage renal disease should only take Ozempic under the guidance and supervision of a doctor.
Hypersensitivity to Semaglutide or Product Components
Do not take Ozempic if you have a known allergy to semaglutide or any of the drug’s other ingredients.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
In animal studies, Ozempic has been associated with fetal risks, including birth defects, preterm delivery, stillbirth, and more. Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to become pregnant while taking (or considering taking) Ozempic.
Children Under 18 Years Old
Ozempic has not been approved for use in minors. Speak with your child’s doctor about other possible treatment alternatives.
Concomitant Use of Other GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
Ozempic should never be taken with other GLP-1 medications. Contact your doctor immediately if you have accidentally taken two different GLP-1 drugs together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions About Ozempic
No. Ozempic does lower blood sugar levels but belongs to the class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. However, it is often taken in combination with insulin.
No, Ozempic is only available as an injectable medication. Rybelsus, another Type 2 Diabetes drug manufactured by Novo Nordisk, is the only semaglutide-based drug available in pill form.
Yes, Ozempic is a peptide. It is 95% identical to glucagon-like peptide 1, an incretin hormone naturally produced in the human gut.
Yes, Ozempic’s active ingredient is semaglutide. Other semaglutide drugs manufactured by Novo Nordisk include Wegovy and Rybelsus.
Ozempic and Wegovy have the same drug composition, but Wegovy’s maintenance dose is 2.4 mg, while Ozempic’s is 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg. Ozempic is FDA-approved for blood sugar control and the reduction of major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with Type 2 Diabetes. Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight loss in adults who are obese or overweight with at least one weight-related medical condition. It is also approved for weight loss in obese teens over the age of 12.
Only your doctor can answer that question based on your personal medical history. That being said, you may be a good candidate for Ozempic if you’ve been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes, related cardiovascular disease, or other weight-related conditions.
Questions About How Ozempic Works
Semaglutide imitates the natural incretin hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Its three primary effects on the body are:
- To increase the release of insulin when blood sugar is elevated
- To reduce glucose released from liver stores into circulation
- To decrease appetite
Yes. Ozempic has been shown to significantly lower both A1C and blood sugar levels in clinical trials.
You may start to notice some impacts of Ozempic as early as the first injection but will generally experience the full impact of the drug when you reach your maintenance dose. Typically, you’ll begin Ozempic on a starting dose of 0.25 mg and titrate up to a higher dose every 4 weeks under the supervision of your doctor. Depending on your body’s reaction to the drug, your maintenance dose may be 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg (which would be reached in approximately 4 weeks, 8 weeks, or 12 weeks, respectively).
For many patients, yes. Along with diet and exercise, Ozempic (semaglutide) can support healthy weight loss in people with Type 2 Diabetes. One clinical trial conducted over a period of 2 years found that patients lost an average of 10.8 lbs. (4.9 kg) when a 1 mg weekly dose of Ozempic was paired with lifestyle interventions.
Yes, it can. In combination with regular exercise and a healthy diet, semaglutide is associated with healthy weight loss in people with and without Type 2 Diabetes. Ozempic itself is not FDA-approved for weight loss purposes, but Wegovy (which offers semaglutide at a higher dosage) is. Some doctors may prescribe Ozempic off-label for weight loss purposes if they feel it will benefit a particular patient.
No. Ozempic does not directly impact your metabolism. That being said, some people may actually experience lower energy levels while taking Ozempic due to reduced appetite and intake of calories.
Ozempic doesn’t directly break down muscle, but rapid weight loss (such as the weight loss some patients experience while on Ozempic) can result in a decrease in muscle mass. You can mitigate muscle loss while taking Ozempic by eating plenty of lean proteins and engaging in regular strength and resistance training.
There are no foods that are specifically prohibited while taking Ozempic but eating a healthy diet will improve your outcomes and experience on the drug. Avoid greasy, highly processed, or sugary foods and beverages, as well as alcohol, to promote blood sugar regulation, cardiovascular, and weight loss outcomes. A bland, low-fat diet may also help with any gastrointestinal side effects you experience while taking Ozempic.
No. Ozempic is not FDA-approved for weight loss but may be prescribed off-label for this purpose under certain circumstances.
Ozempic has a half-life of approximately one week (which is why it is injected on a weekly basis). Therefore, the amount of time it stays in your system depends on the dose you are taking. On average, it takes a month or more for Ozempic to completely leave your body.
Questions About Dosage & Administration
It depends on the self-injectable Ozempic pen you are using and the dose you are taking. Commonly, Ozempic pens contain 4 doses of medication (0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg) or 8 doses of medication (0.25 mg starting dose). Review dosing instructions carefully with your healthcare provider and refer to the patient package insert as needed.
Most patients begin with a 0.25 mg starting dose of Ozempic and titrate up to a higher weekly maintenance dose of 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg over a series of weeks. Your doctor will monitor you closely to determine which Ozempic quantity will be suitable for your body and health goals, as well as when it may be time to increase your dosage.
Ozempic should be injected subcutaneously (under the skin) of the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. It should never be injected directly into a muscle or vein, and the injection site should be rotated each week to minimize discomfort and reactions.
No. You can take Ozempic with or without food. Some patients find that eating a small snack or meal when taking Ozempic helps decrease gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Ozempic should be administered once weekly on the same day every week.
Not specifically. Many factors may impact your Ozempic dosage, including your medical history, health goals, reaction to the drug, and reasons for taking Ozempic. Generally speaking, your doctor will stop increasing your Ozempic dosage once your blood sugar levels are under control.
If you miss a dose of Ozempic, take it as soon as you remember. If more than 5 days have passed since your missed dose, skip the dose entirely and resume your regular dosing schedule on the day of the week you normally inject Ozempic. Consult with your doctor if you miss a dose (or multiple doses) of Ozempic entirely, as they may need to make adjustments to your treatment accordingly.
Questions About Side Effects & Safety
Ozempic is not recommended during pregnancy. For ethical reasons, no clinical trials have studied the impacts of Ozempic on pregnant women. In animal trials, however, Ozempic has been associated with adverse fetal outcomes, including birth defects, preterm birth, stillbirth, and more.
Inform your doctor immediately if you are taking Ozempic and become pregnant. They can help you determine the best treatment plan for your health and the health of your fetus.
Alcohol is not specifically prohibited while taking Ozempic but should be consumed with restraint and caution. Your doctor can best advise you on the frequency and amount of alcohol it will be safe for you to consume while on Ozempic. Determining factors may include other medications you are taking and your history with alcohol. For some patients, eliminating alcohol consumption altogether may be important.
In some cases, yes. Injury or damage to the kidneys (nephrotoxicity) is a potential risk associated with Ozempic. That being said, some studies have also associated semaglutide with a reduction in Chronic Kidney Disease in patients with Type 2 Diabetes.
No. If anything, it’s more likely to do the opposite. Though uncommon, some patients do report tiredness or fatigue as a side effect of Ozempic.
As with pregnancy, not enough data exists about the relationship between Ozempic and breastfeeding to determine whether or not it is safe. For this reason, taking Ozempic while breastfeeding is not recommended. If you are currently breastfeeding, speak with your doctor to explore alternate treatment options.
The connection between Ozempic and sex drive is unclear, but some patients have reported decreased libido while on the drug. If you experience symptoms such as these, speak with your doctor.
Ozempic is not known to directly impact fertility. However, well-controlled blood sugar levels (such as those that can be achieved on Ozempic) can be associated with a higher likelihood of successful conception.
Questions About Interactions & Combinations
While there are no specific foods that must be strictly avoided while on Ozempic, some categories of food are likely to make it more difficult to regulate blood sugar levels or exacerbate specific side effects (such as gastrointestinal issues) while taking the drug. Recommended foods and beverages to avoid while on Ozempic include:
- Foods with added sugars
- Fried foods
- Alcohol
- Refined carbohydrates
- High-glycemic fruits and vegetables
Ozempic may interact negatively with a variety of different drugs, including insulin and other Diabetes medications, sulfonylureas, oral medications, and more. Disclose all medications to your doctor before starting on Ozempic to ensure that your ongoing treatment is as safe and effective as possible.
In general, yes. However, certain supplements or over-the-counter medications may interact with Ozempic. It is always best to talk with your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking or are considering starting to take while on Ozempic.
Yes, but only under the careful supervision of your doctor. Many patients find the combination of Ozempic and Metformin effective, but it can also lead to an increase in side effects and other health concerns if not properly managed.
Questions about Usage, Access, and Cost
Ozempic is indicated for adults living with Type 2 Diabetes or adults living with Type 2 Diabetes and established cardiovascular disease. Some people without Type 2 Diabetes take Ozempic for weight management, but this is an off-label use of the drug.
Sometimes, though, there is an off-label use of the drug. In some instances, Ozempic has been reported to effectively relieve certain symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). More research is needed in order to draw any formal conclusions about its efficacy in treating this condition.
Ozempic is associated with a reduction in cholesterol levels. It is not primarily a cholesterol medication but is indicated for reducing the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in Type 2 Diabetes patients with established heart disease.
Ozempic is not specifically a blood pressure medication, but it can help to reduce blood pressure levels, especially as blood sugar control increases and weight loss occurs.
Some doctors may prescribe Ozempic to prediabetes patients to help them gain better blood sugar control, but this is an off-label use of the drug. Speak directly with your doctor if you are curious about whether or not Ozempic could be an option for treating your prediabetes.
Ozempic prices in Canada are much more affordable than in the U.S.—sometimes as little as a third of the price you would pay at your local pharmacy. To compare prices directly, view our available Ozempic medications at Bisonpharmacy.com.
Yes. At Bisonpharmacy.com, we ship high-quality Ozempic directly to your door. As a reputable prescription referral service, we are happy to speak with you directly and answer any questions you may have about ordering Ozempic (or other medications) online.
Not all online vendors of prescription medications are reputable. Be cautious of services that claim not to require prescriptions, do not provide a phone number, or seem to offer unrealistically low drug prices. Also, ensure that you are sourcing medications from countries that, like Canada, have highly regulated pharmaceutical industries and impeccable standards.
That depends on your insurance plan and provider. In many cases, Ozempic injections will be fully or partially covered by insurance. That being said, it is less common (though not unheard of) for insurance companies to cover Ozempic if the drug is prescribed for an off-label purpose, such as weight loss.
Novo Nordisk offers an Ozempic Savings Card that can reduce costs on a 1, 2, or 3-month prescription, but you must already have private or commercial insurance to be eligible. Other coupons or discounts may be available through your healthcare provider, pharmacy, or online (though be careful to verify the validity of the offer and the quality of the Ozempic product you receive in return).
Yes. Ozempic is a prescription medication, and you must have a prescription from a licensed American doctor in order to purchase it online from Bisonpharmacy.com.
About the Author
Ida Edlweiss Gumpal is a licensed Pharmacist and medical writer. She took her internships at Mercury Drug Corporation, Inc., a Hospital internship at De Vera Medical Center, Inc., and a Manufacturing internship at Philmed Laboratories, Inc. She has plans on attending medical school with the goal of specializing in Neurosurgery or Cardiothoracic surgery.
