Ozempic (Semaglutide)

Ozempic uses

Ozempic has multiple uses, including lowering the risk of certain cardiovascular events in individuals with type 2 diabetes, managing blood sugar levels, increasing weight loss, treating polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and may even play a role in treating addiction.

Of these uses, Ozempic has only been FDA-approved for managing blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes in combination with diet and exercise.^[3] Research has also demonstrated Ozempic's ability to lower the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes who have been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease.^[4]

Ozempic is often prescribed off-label for the treatment of obesity in overweight individuals. Research has demonstrated substantial weight loss, with total body weight loss percentages of approximately 6% at three months and 11% at six months of treatment.^[6] 

Although not FDA-approved for the treatment of individuals with PCOS, Ozempic has demonstrated promising results in treating insulin resistance in these individuals.^[7] Treatment with Ozempic may lead to reductions in common symptoms associated with PCOS, such as obesity, increased hair growth, menstrual irregularities, and reduced ovarian function.

Interestingly, Ozempic has also been proposed as a potential treatment for addiction due to its ability to regulate reward pathways in the brain, which are activated by substance use. Although no clinical trials have investigated this specific use for Ozempic, patients prescribed Ozempic for weight loss also reported the medication reduced their desire to drink alcohol or consume other drugs.^[8] Animal studies have also demonstrated promising results in this area, demonstrating semaglutides' ability to reduce alcohol intake and modulate GABA neurotransmission.^[9][10] This vital neurotransmitter modulates impulse control and reward centers in the brain, which are central to the mechanisms behind addiction.

Ozempic doses

The recommended Ozempic dosage will vary based on various factors, such as the intended use, an individual's response to the medication, and blood sugar levels. Higher dosages are often used for weight loss, while a lower dose may be sufficient for blood sugar management.

Due to the potential for side effects, Ozempic dosage is slowly increased. Tapering the dose helps patients tolerate the changes in digestion that Ozempic may cause better.^[13]

For blood sugar control, the recommended starting dosage is 0.25 mg injected weekly for four weeks.^[13] If the medication is well-tolerated, your doctor will increase the dosage to 0.5 mg once weekly.^[13] At this point, your doctor will check your blood sugar levels and determine if additional dose increases are necessary to obtain appropriate blood sugar control.^[13]

If so, the dosage can be increased to 1 mg once weekly.^[13] The maximum recommended dosage is 2 mg once weekly.^[13]

Ozempic dosing for weight loss and PCOS treatment may differ.

Your doctor will work with you to determine the appropriate starting dosage for your needs.

Method of administration

Ozempic is a self-administered injection that is injected subcutaneously.^[13] Subcutaneous injections are injected into the fatty tissue under the skin. It can be injected into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Individuals must understand they should never inject Ozempic into a muscle or vein as this can cause unintended side effects.

Ozempic should be administered once weekly, on the same day each week, at any time of day.^[13] This medication does not need to be taken with food.

The medication comes in a prefilled injectable pen with more than one dose. After each use, the needle of the injectable pen must be changed before another injection is administered.^[13]

New, unused Ozempic pens should be stored in the refrigerator.^[13] After use, the injectable pen should be stored with the needle removed and cap on at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 56 days.^[13]

Your physician will provide you with detailed instructions when you begin Ozempic. If you have any questions about administration, reach out to your healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification.

Short-term side effects

As an individual starts taking Ozempic, the alterations in digestion can cause mild side effects that are usually temporary. The common short-term side effects when beginning Ozempic include:^[13]

• Nausea
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting

These side effects typically will reduce as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or worsen as your dose increases, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider for further guidance.

Long-term side effects

Clinical trials have demonstrated some potential long-term side effects of Ozempic. These side effects are rarer than short-term, but awareness of their potential is essential as they can be more severe if left untreated.

Long-term side effects include:^[13]

• Pancreatitis
• Increased risk of diabetic retinopathy complications
• Gallbladder disease
• Thyroid C-cell tumors
• Hypoglycemia
• Acute kidney injury
• Anaphylaxis or allergic reaction

Ozempic face

A potential side effect associated with the loss of facial fat is "Ozempic face." This side effect has gained recent attention on social media platforms due to the somewhat odd appearance it may cause.

Due to Ozempic's potential to cause rapid weight loss, facial fat loss can cause a hollowing or thinning of the face, referred to as the "Ozempic face." The skin may sag where there is significant fat loss, causing a gaunter appearance. Some individuals may interpret this alteration of fat in their face as a change of shape to their face, which may be quite alarming.

This side effect is rare and can be reversed when a person's weight stabilizes, and the skin has some time to retract. Additionally, the facial fat will replenish if Ozempic is stopped and weight is regained.

How to get Ozempic

If you want Ozempic, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider, who can evaluate if this medication is appropriate for you. During your appointment, your doctor will discuss the pros and cons of starting Ozempic and determine if treatment is appropriate.

If your healthcare provider decides Ozempic is a good fit for your current healthcare needs, they will prescribe it. Ozempic can be obtained from your local pharmacy, an online pharmacy, or a mail-order pharmacy, depending on your healthcare provider's recommendations and personal preferences.