Ozempic: What It Is, Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects

Updated at 2025-05-10

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes and help with weight management. It works by mimicking the effects of a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps lower blood sugar levels and promotes weight loss. Ozempic is administered as an injection under the skin and is usually prescribed alongside diet and exercise. (Learn more on DoseMed)

Indications and Uses

Ozempic is indicated for:

  • Type 2 Diabetes: To improve blood sugar control along with diet and exercise.
  • Weight Management: As an adjunct to diet and exercise to help with weight loss in adults with obesity or overweight conditions.

Dosage and Administration

Ozempic is administered once a week via subcutaneous injection. Dosage is adjusted based on individual treatment goals and response:

  • Initial Dose: 0.25 mg once a week for 4 weeks.
  • Maintenance Dose: Increased to 0.5 mg once a week after 4 weeks, with potential for further escalation to 1 mg once a week depending on clinical response.

Contraindications

Ozempic is contraindicated in patients with:

  • A personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer.
  • A history of multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2.

Warnings and Precautions

Ozempic carries certain risks, including:

  • Risk of thyroid tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).
  • Risk of pancreatitis or serious gastrointestinal issues.

Adverse Reactions

Common adverse reactions include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain

Drug Interactions

Caution should be used when taking Ozempic with certain medications, such as:

  • Insulin or other antidiabetic medications, as the risk of hypoglycemia may increase.

Patient Counseling Information

Patients should be informed about:

  • The need to monitor blood sugar regularly while on Ozempic.
  • The importance of diet and exercise in managing type 2 diabetes and weight.
  • Possible gastrointestinal side effects and how to manage them.

Conclusion

Ozempic is a powerful medication that can help manage blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes and assist with weight loss. Patients should follow the prescribed dosage and speak with their healthcare providers if they experience any side effects.

For more detailed information, please refer to the official drug label on DailyMed

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