As Ozempic’s reputation grows, so do questions on its makes use of, advantages, and potential unwanted side effects.
We requested endocrinologist Dr. Ann Peters, director of the Scientific Diabetes Program on the Keck Faculty of Medication of USC, the commonest questions on Ozempic from the Diabetes Sturdy group.
Are Ozempic and Wigovy the identical drug? Can I swap between the 2?
Ozempic and Wegovy are the identical drug (semaglutide), so the solutions to the questions beneath apply to each manufacturers.
Semaglutide works by mimicking the consequences of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that stimulates the pancreas to provide extra insulin. Extra insulin helps sugar enter cells, decreasing blood sugar ranges.
The primary cause semaglutide is efficient for weight reduction is as a result of it will increase satiety and reduces urge for food.
Is Ozempic the simplest drug for weight reduction?
Semaglutide (Ozempic & Wegovy) may be very efficient for weight reduction, however different choices exist.
Research present that individuals who take Ozempic expertise a mean weight lack of 10 to fifteen p.c.
comparedin medical trials, individuals who took Tyrezatide (Zepbound and Munjaro) misplaced a mean of 20 p.c of their t.Inheritor’s weight.
One other distinction between Ozempic and tyrezatide is that Ozempic is FDA-approved to cut back the danger of coronary heart assault and stroke in individuals with kind 2 diabetes, whereas tyrezatide shouldn’t be.
For extra data, see Ozempic vs Munjaro: Which one must you select?
Do I’ve to maintain taking Ozempic perpetually, or can I cease taking it as soon as I shed extra pounds and decrease my A1c?
You must proceed taking the medication so long as you get good outcomes and there are not any unwanted side effects. Medicines are solely efficient while you’re taking them.
What occurs if I cease taking Ozempic?
At all times seek the advice of your physician earlier than discontinuing any prescription medicine. You must have a plan for gradual dose discount and different methods to handle the situation being handled with the drug.
How widespread are Ozempic unwanted side effects?
The most typical unwanted side effects of Ozempic are:
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- stomach ache
- constipation
These widespread unwanted side effects are sometimes seen solely through the first few weeks of Ozempic remedy and when the dose is elevated.
Though uncommon, severe unwanted side effects of Ozempic embody:
- thyroid tumor
- pancreatitis
- Modifications in imaginative and prescient.
- Hypoglycemia (hypoglycemia).
- Worsening kidney issues and kidney failure.
- Extreme allergic response.
In case you expertise unwanted side effects from utilizing Ozempic, we encourage you to report them to the FDA by the MedWatch program.
How can I keep away from unwanted side effects?
Beginning at a low dose and growing step by step can keep away from or decrease lots of the commonest unwanted side effects.
Is it attainable to have an allergic response to Ozempic?
Who shouldn’t take Ozempic?
In keeping with Ozempic’s security data, Ozempic can be not really helpful in case you are pregnant, below 18 years of age, or have a historical past of diabetic retinopathy.
How does Ozempic have an effect on psychological well being?
Can individuals with kind 2 diabetes take Ozempic and metformin collectively?
Do you assume Ozempic might help individuals with kind 1 diabetes who needn’t shed extra pounds?
