Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic®) is a medication used to treat Type 2 diabetes and weight loss. Its active ingredient, Semaglutide, is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that aids in blood sugar control and insulin regulation.

Semaglutide is a medication from the GLP-1 RAs (Glucagon-Like Peptide Receptor Agonists) family that regulates appetite, stomach emptying, and insulin production. 

Semaglutide is sold under different brand names, and it can come in the form of pills and injectables.

 

What are Glucagon-Like Peptide (GLP-1) agonists?

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Semaglutide belongs to the family of Glucagon-Like Peptide (GLP-1) agonists. It works by copying the action of a hormone called Glucagon-Like Peptide (GLP-1) that our bodies produce after we eat.

In other words, it mimics the action of the GLP-1 hormone, which plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism. By stimulating insulin secretion, inhibiting glucagon release, and slowing gastric emptying, Semaglutide helps regulate blood sugar levels and promotes weight loss.

GLP-1 is a natural gut protein that regulates feelings of fullness, slows stomach emptying, and stimulates insulin production to control blood sugar levels. When this hormone is released, it tells our brain we are full. By acting like this hormone, Semaglutide makes us less hungry and less likely to want to eat.

Semaglutide helps by boosting GLP-1 levels in the body, restoring control over energy intake and expenditure.

 

Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic®)

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The medication is synthesised to mimic the natural hormone incretin GLP-1, which enhances the growth of pancreatic beta cells (responsible for insulin secretion) and inhibits the action of glucagon. This hormone promotes the production and release of glucose from body stores.

In addition to controlling blood sugar, Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic®) also reduces food cravings, enhances insulin production during meals, and lowers the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death in individuals with Type 2 diabetes and existing heart disease. It is important to note that Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic®) is not a substitute for insulin therapy.

How Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic) Supports Weight Loss & Diabetes Management

GLP-1 weight loss injections like Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic®) target the biological mechanisms contributing to weight gain and metabolic challenges. They work in three primary ways:

1. Appetite Regulation
2. These medications mimic the action of natural GLP-1 hormones, signalling the brain to reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness. This helps control calorie intake, reduces cravings, and makes sticking to a healthy diet easier.
3. Slower Digestion
4. GLP-1 injections help you feel satisfied for longer after meals by slowing stomach emptying. This promotes portion control and reduces the need for frequent snacking, making it easier to maintain a caloric deficit.
5. Improved Glucose Control
6. These injections are particularly beneficial for individuals with Type 2 diabetes. They enhance insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, which supports weight loss and improves overall metabolic health.

When paired with lifestyle changes such as a nutrient-rich diet and regular physical activity, GLP-1 injections can result in meaningful and lasting weight loss. Additionally, they may improve key health markers such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and cardiovascular health.

 

 

How to Use Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic®):

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Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic®) is administered weekly via subcutaneous injection (under the skin). Follow your doctor’s instructions on dosage and administration.

Typically, treatment begins with 0.25 mg once a week for the first four weeks. If well-tolerated, the dose is usually increased to 0.5 mg per week. After at least four weeks, your doctor may increase the dose to 1 mg weekly if blood sugar control remains inadequate.

It’s recommended to take Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic®) on the same day each week, although you may change the day of administration if necessary, provided at least 2 days have passed since the last dose. Never stop or alter the dosage without consulting your healthcare provider. Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic®) can be taken with or without food.

Injection Site Selection:

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Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic®) should be injected into the fatty tissue beneath the skin. Suitable injection sites include the upper arms, thighs, or abdomen. Rotate your injection sites weekly to reduce the risk of lipodystrophy (lumps or dents in the skin caused by repeated injections in the exact location).

Steps for Administering Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic®):

1. Prepare the Pen:
• Attach a new needle to the Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic®) pen and remove the outer and inner caps of the needle.
• Ensure the solution is clear and colourless before use.
  
  
2. Flow Check (For New Pens Only):
• If using a new pen, perform a flow check. Turn the dose selector to the flow check symbol, hold the pen with the needle pointing up, and press the dose button until a drop appears at the needle’s tip. If no drop appears after several attempts, replace the needle and repeat the process.
  
  
3. Set the Dose:
• Turn the dose selector to the prescribed dose.
  
  
4. Inject the medication:
• Wash your hands, clean the injection site, and lift a skin fold to insert the needle at a 90-degree angle.
• Press and hold the dose button until the dose counter returns to ‘0’. Keep the needle in your skin for at least 6 seconds.
  
  
5. After the Injection:
• Remove the needle and discard it immediately. Do not reuse needles.
• Do not rub or massage the injection site after use.

 

What to Do if You Miss a Dose:

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If you miss a dose of Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic®), administer it as soon as you remember, within 5 days of the missed dose. If more than 5 days have passed, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses to make up for a missed one.

Precautions and Considerations:

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Before using Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic®), inform your doctor if you:

• Are you allergic to Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic®) or any of its ingredients
• Have Type 1 diabetes
• Are on insulin or sulfonylureas (such as glipizide, gliclazide)
• Have a history of pancreatitis
• Have heart, kidney, or liver issues
• Have thyroid problems or a family history of thyroid cancer
• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
• Are you taking other medications, including supplements or herbal remedies

Common Side Effects:

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• Nausea, vomiting, bloating, and stomach discomfort: Avoid fatty or spicy foods and eat small portions.
• Diarrhea: Stay hydrated.
• Bruising or pain at the injection site: Rotate injection sites and avoid needle reuse.
• Tiredness, headache, runny nose, or throat irritation.
• Low blood sugar symptoms: Giddiness, cold sweat, hunger, shaking, fast heartbeat, blurred vision, or confusion. If you experience these, check your blood sugar and consume 15 grams of fast-acting sugar, such as glucose tablets, fruit juice, or sweetened beverages. Recheck your blood sugar after 15 minutes.

Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Attention):

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• Allergic reactions: Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, difficulty breathing, or rash.
• Pancreatitis or gallbladder inflammation: Severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, pale stools, yellowing of skin or eyes, and fever.
• Diabetic retinopathy: Worsening of eye conditions due to rapid improvement in blood sugar.
• Thyroid cancer symptoms: Lumps in the neck, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing.
• Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviour.

Storage Instructions:

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• Store unused Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic®) in the refrigerator (2–8°C). Do not freeze.
• After opening, store the pen at room temperature (below 30°C) or in the fridge and discard it 6 weeks after opening.

Disposal:

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To avoid injury, dispose of used needles and the medication pen in a sharps container. Do not reuse needles. Keep out of the reach of children.