Losing weight with Ozempic (semaglutide)

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is an injectable medicine that has been developed for people with type 2 diabetes to regulate their blood glucose levels. It has recently been shown that it also promotes weight loss and can, therefore, help with losing weight. That is why it is increasingly often used to treat people who are overweight or obese. The active substance in Ozempic, semaglutide, affects the body’s glucose metabolism. It also affects how full you feel after having eaten. Ozempic is injected once a week. Only if this medicine is combined with a healthy diet and enough exercise may somebody on this medication lose weight. Ozempic is, therefore, indicated for the treatment of diabetes and not indicated for weight loss.

How does Ozempic work?

Ozempic mimics the action of the natural hormone GLP-1, which is involved in regulating blood glucose levels and in the feeling of fullness. It helps to reduce glucose production in the liver, which contributes to improved blood glucose levels. In addition, it is responsible for reduced appetite and for keeping food in your stomach for longer. This makes you feel hungry less quickly and inclined to eat less.

Who is Ozempic suitable for?

Ozempic is intended for adults with type 2 diabetes who struggle to control their blood glucose levels. The same active substance that is present in Ozempic (semaglutide) is prescribed to people who are overweight (BMI ≥ 27) or obese (BMI ≥ 30) and have weight-related health issues, for example high blood pressure or sleep apnoea.

How is Ozempic used?

Ozempic is administered once a week using an injection pen, preferably in the abdomen, the thigh or the upper arm. When you start on this medication, you start with a dosage of 0.25 mg per week, which is increased after a month to 0.5 mg. If necessary, the dosage can be increased further to a maximum of 1 mg per week. Wegovy, a medicine containing the same active substance, can be increased to a maximum of 2.4 mg. It is important to keep to the weekly injection schedule and to always use Ozempic on the same day of the week. If you have forgotten a dose, still administer it within five days, otherwise skip the dose.

What is the active substance in Ozempic?

The active substance in the Ozempic weight management medication is semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. This means that it binds to receptors in the body that promote insulin release and suppress appetite. Furthermore, semaglutide reduces glucose production in the liver, which is helpful for people with type 2 diabetes. Ozempic also contains inactive substances, including sodium chloride and water for injection.

Does Ozempic have any side effects?

Like many other medicines, Ozempic can cause side effects in some cases. The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and constipation. They mainly occur during the first weeks of using the weight loss medication. Most side effects improve over time. More severe side effects, such as inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), are rare but require immediate medical attention. Consult your NOK Clinics doctor if you develop symptoms such as severe abdominal pain.

How should Ozempic be stored?

Store the Ozempic weight loss medication in the fridge at a temperature between 2 °C and 8 °C. If necessary, the medicine can be stored outside the fridge for up to 56 days, as long as the temperature stays below 30 °C. Make sure the pen is stored away from direct sunlight and store it in the original packaging. Always check the liquid before each use or administration of the injection. Do not use the medicine if the liquid is cloudy or has changed colour.

Are there any other types of weight loss medicines?

In addition to Ozempic, there are other medicines that may help with weight loss, such as Saxenda, Mounjaro, Wegovy and Mysimba. Each of these medicines works in a unique way (injections to lose weight or tablets) and may be suitable based on your specific situation and health goals. You can find more information about these alternatives on our website so that you and our doctor together can choose the right medicine to help you lose weight.

Disclaimer

The above information provides a general overview of Ozempic. For personal medical advice and detailed information about side effects and dosages, consult the package leaflet or contact your doctor.