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Ozempic

Type 2 Diabetes Treatment

Description

Generic Name: Semaglutide
Brand Name: Ozempic
Drug Class: GLP-1 receptor agonist (Glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist)
This is a prescription medicine, which requires a valid prescription!

Indications

  • Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Ozempic is used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes, alongside diet and exercise.
  • Cardiovascular Risk Reduction: It is also indicated to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events (e.g., heart attack, stroke) in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.
Mechanism of Action
  • Ozempic works by mimicking the action of the GLP-1 hormone, which:
    • Stimulates insulin secretion in response to meals.
    • Suppresses glucagon secretion (a hormone that raises blood sugar).
    • Slows gastric emptying, leading to reduced appetite and calorie intake.
Dosage and Administration
  • Form: Subcutaneous injection (pre-filled pen).
  • Starting Dose: 0.25 mg once weekly for 4 weeks (to minimize gastrointestinal side effects).
  • Maintenance Dose: 0.5 mg or 1 mg once weekly, depending on patient response and tolerability.
  • Administration: Inject under the skin (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm) once weekly, with or without meals.
Side Effects
  • Common:
    • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain.
    • Decreased appetite.
    • Mild hypoglycemia (especially when used with other diabetes medications like sulfonylureas or insulin).
  • Serious (rare):
    • Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).
    • Diabetic retinopathy complications.
    • Kidney injury (in patients with pre-existing kidney disease).
    • Allergic reactions.
Contraindications
  • History of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
  • Hypersensitivity to semaglutide or any component of the formulation.

Information

Warnings and Precautions:

  • Thyroid C-Cell Tumors: Rodent studies showed an increased risk of thyroid C-cell tumors; however, human relevance is unknown.
  • Pancreatitis: Discontinue if pancreatitis is suspected.
  • Hypoglycemia: Monitor blood sugar levels, especially when used with other glucose-lowering agents.
  • Kidney Function: Monitor renal function in patients with renal impairment.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use only if potential benefits outweigh risks; consult a healthcare provider.

Drug Interactions:

  • Insulin or Sulfonylureas: Increased risk of hypoglycemia; dose adjustments may be needed.
  • Oral Medications: Delayed gastric emptying may affect the absorption of oral medications (e.g., antibiotics, contraceptives). Take oral medications at least 1 hour before Ozempic.

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