What Are the Side Effects of Semaglutide (Ozempic)?
Did you know that in 2020 there were almost 200,000 Bariatric surgeries? These numbers rise every year as many people seek help with weight loss. Even so, most hope to find a less invasive way to lose weight.
Luckily, there are a few options you can choose from. In this article, we’ll explore the most common side effects of semaglutide shots.
What is Ozempic?
Semaglutide is also marketed under the brand name Ozempic. Ozempic is rising in popularity as many well-known celebrities and doctors try it. Ozempic contains semaglutide, a type of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist.
It is an injectable medication used to treat type 2 diabetes and is also used as a weight loss aid. While it has been effective for many people, like any medication, it does come with potential side effects.
How Does It Work?
Semaglutide works by mimicking the effects of GLP-1. This is a hormone produced by the body that helps regulate blood sugar levels. GLP-1 stimulates insulin production in response to rising blood sugar levels.
It also slows down the absorption of glucose from food. Semaglutide helps to lower blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin production and reducing the amount of glucose absorbed from food. In addition to its effects on blood sugar, semaglutide also helps to promote weight loss.
It does this by reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness. This makes it a useful tool for people with type 2 diabetes who are overweight or obese. Excess weight can make it more difficult to manage blood sugar levels.
How Is It Taken?
Ozempic is injected subcutaneously (under the skin) once a week. This is done with a needle in the thigh or upper arm. The dose may be adjusted based on your response to the medication and your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
It is important to follow the injection instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Also try to rotate injection sites to prevent skin irritation.
Who Can Take It?
Ozempic is approved for use in adults with Type 2 diabetes, either alone or in combination with other diabetes medications. This is the original purpose of the drug.
It is also approved as a weight loss aid for people with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher. If you think you could be a good fit to try out this medication, talk with your primary care provider.
Gastrointestinal Issues
The most common side effect of semaglutide injections is gastrointestinal issues. These may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.
These side effects can be managed by following your healthcare provider’s instructions for taking the medication. They may advise you to adjust your diet as necessary.
Hypoglycemia
Another potential side effect of semaglutide is hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. This can occur if you take too much medication or do not eat enough food while taking semaglutide.
Symptoms of hypoglycemia include dizziness, sweating, headache, confusion, and irritability. It is important to monitor your blood sugar regularly while taking semaglutide. As always, follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for managing hypoglycemia.
Allergic Reactions
In some cases, semaglutide injections can cause allergic reactions. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms after taking semaglutide, seek medical attention immediately.
Kidney Problems
Semaglutide can affect kidney function, particularly in those with pre-existing kidney disease. If you have kidney problems, your healthcare provider may monitor your kidney function closely while you are taking semaglutide. This way you can stay ahead of any issues that may arise.
Gallbladder Problems
Semaglutide may increase the risk of developing gallbladder problems, such as gallstones. If you have a history of gallbladder problems, your healthcare provider may advise against taking semaglutide. You should keep this in mind when speaking with your doctors.
Injection Site Reactions
Semaglutide is injected under the skin, which can cause skin reactions in some people. Irritations such as redness, itching, or swelling at the injection site can occur. It is important to rotate injection sites to prevent skin irritation.
Hypersensitivity Reactions
Some people may experience allergic reactions to semaglutide. This can include rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to go in before they get worse.
Pancreatitis
Semaglutide injections have also been linked to an increased risk of pancreatitis. This is a condition that causes inflammation of the pancreas.
Symptoms of pancreatitis include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking semaglutide, contact your healthcare provider right away for advice.
Thyroid Tumors
Finally, there have been some reports of thyroid tumors in animals that have received semaglutide injections. While there is no evidence to suggest that semaglutide causes thyroid tumors in humans, it is still important to be aware of this potential risk.
Consider the Side Effects of Semaglutide
Semaglutide injections can be an effective treatment for Type 2 diabetes and a useful tool for weight loss. If you experience side effects from semaglutide, contact your healthcare provider as soon as you can. They can help you manage your symptoms and determine if semaglutide is still the best treatment option for you.
If you want to learn more about the side effects of Semaglutide (Ozempic), contact us today or give us a call at (509) 474-0597.