Does Semaglutide (Ozempic) Cause Cancer?
Did you know that thirty-seven million Americans have Type 2 diabetes? If you suffer from this condition or a similar one that causes obesity, you’re likely looking into all possible solutions.
One potential option for many people is Semaglutide (or Ozempic). But exactly what is Semaglutide (Ozempic)? And Does Semaglutide (Ozempic) cause cancer?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the drug, including the potential risks. Let’s get started!
What Is Semaglutide (Ozempic)?
When it first came out, Semaglutide (Ozempic) was a treatment option for people struggling with Type 2 diabetes. The medication comes in the form of a subcutaneous injection (which just means that you inject it under your skin).
When people with Type 2 diabetes take Semaglutide (Ozempic), it can help them lower their high blood sugar levels. What’s more, it also reduces the risks associated with certain cardiovascular conditions.
However, it’s important to note that Semaglutide (Ozempic) isn’t just for people with Type 2 diabetes. Many people use this medication in combination with diet and exercise to lose weight.
Because of this, it’s also good for people with obesity or a weight-related condition like high cholesterol or high blood pressure.
If you want to learn more about Semaglutide (Ozempic) for weight loss, make sure to check out our full guide here.
How Does It Work?
Semaglutide (Ozempic) works by reducing glycogen release and increasing insulin secretion. It does this by mimicking the natural hormone peptide-1 (GLP-1).
This is what allows the medication to lower blood sugar levels. However, peptide-1 (GLP-1) has another side effect. It increases the feelings of satiation in people.
That means that when you use the medication, you’ll begin to feel full faster after eating. It does this by interacting with the part of the brain that controls hunger and overall food intake.
This is what can make Semaglutide (Ozempic) a valuable medication for weight loss as well as Type 2 diabetes.
What Are the More Common Side Effects?
Before we answer the Semaglutide (Ozempic) cancer question, let’s first explore some of the more common types of side effects you’re likely to encounter on the drug.
When you first begin taking Semaglutide (Ozempic), the most common things you may notice are diarrhea, constipation, belly pain, and vomiting. Less common side effects include things like:
- Noticeable change in taste
- Burping
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Gas
- Lack of energy
- Acid reflux
- Itchy skin near the injection site
- A minor increase in your heart rate
The good news is that these side effects tend to go away on their own. They can usually be managed with the help of other types of medication.
However, in the event that they don’t go away, you should consult with your doctor immediately.
Does Semaglutide (Ozempic) Cause Cancer?
Unfortunately, there is no clear answer to this question. It’s important to note that the FDA-boxed label for Semaglutide (Ozempic) warns of a possible risk for thyroid cancer.
Specifically, it states the possibility of thyroid C-cell tumors. However, there are some important notes to consider with this warning. First, the instances of Semaglutide (Ozempic) causing thyroid cancer were recorded with animals (rats, to be precise).
That means that there is still no clear evidence regarding whether or not it causes cancer in humans. Still, at the end of the day, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Because of this, you shouldn’t take the medication if you or a family member has a history of thyroid cancer.
What’s more, avoid Semaglutide if you know that you have a rare condition known as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2.
How Do You Take Semaglutide (Ozempic)?
Semaglutide is taken in the form of a weekly injection. The specific Semaglutide (Ozempic) dosage will depend on what week you’re on. During the first four weeks, you’ll take a small dose of 0.25 mg.
This will give your body some time to adjust to the medication. By week five, you can increase the dosage to 0.5 mg per week. In some cases, your doctor might recommend more if your blood sugar levels require it.
How Long Do Side Effects Last on the Drug?
As we mentioned before, side effects with Semaglutide (Ozempic) are rare. The good news is that they’re usually both temporary and manageable. Side effects are most common during the first four weeks of taking the medication.
That’s because your body is gradually getting acclimated to it. However, it’s possible that you could have side effects up to five weeks after taking your final dose. This is how long it takes for the drug to fully exit your system.
Can Semaglutide Cause Hair Loss?
No, during the FDA studies of Semaglutide (Ozempic), no hair loss was reported as a side effect. However, it’s important to note that Type 2 diabetes has been linked to hair loss in certain individuals.
So if you have this condition, it’s more likely that your hair loss is related to your diabetes than a result of takingSemaglutide (Ozempic).
Interested In Losing Weight With Semaglutide? Contact Anti-Aging Northwest
We hope this guide helped you learn more about Semaglutide (Ozempic). As you can see, this drug does come with some potentially serious side effects. The good news though is that they’re relatively rare.
Just ensure you’re getting the medication from a reputable supplier like Anti-Aging Northwest. That way, you know you’re getting a safe product. If you want to learn more about Semaglutide (Ozempic), make sure to contact us today or give us a call at (509) 474-0597.