As the popularity of Ozempic continues to rise, so do the questions surrounding its use, benefits, and potential side effects.
We have asked Endocrinologist Dr. Anne Peters, Director of the Clinical Diabetes Programs at Keck School of Medicine of USC, the most common questions about Ozempic from the Diabetes Strong community.
Are Ozempic and Wegovy the same drug? Can I switch between the two?
Because Ozempic and Wegovy are the same drug (semaglutide), answers to the questions below are relevant for both brands.
Semaglutide works by mimicking the action of the hormone glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), which stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin. More insulin helps sugar enter the cells, lowering blood sugar levels.
The main reason why semaglutide is effective in weight loss is that it increases the feeling of satiety and decreases appetite.
Is Ozempic the most effective drug for weight loss?
Semaglutide (Ozempic & Wegovy) is very effective for weight loss, but other options exist.
Studies have shown that people taking Ozempic experience an average weight loss of 10 to 15 percent.
In comparison, in clinical trials, people taking Tirezatide (Zepbound and Mounjaro) lost an average of 20 percent of their body weight.
Another difference between Ozempic and Tirezatide is that Ozempic is FDA-approved to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in people with type 2 diabetes, while Tirezatide is not.
Learn more in: Ozempic vs. Mounjaro: Which One Should You Choose?
Will I have to stay on Ozempic forever, or can I stop after losing weight and getting my A1c down?
You should stay on the medication as long as you see good results and tolerate it without side effects. The medication only works as long as you take it.
What happens when you stop taking Ozempic?
Always consult with your doctor before stopping a prescription medication. You should have a plan in place for gradually reducing the dose and an alternative way of managing the condition the drug is treating.
How common are Ozempic side effects?
The most common side effects of Ozempic include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
These common side effects are often only seen during the first few weeks after starting Ozempic and when increasing the dose.
Rare but serious Ozempic side effects include:
- Thyroid tumors
- Pancreatitis
- Changes in your vision.
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
- Worsened kidney issues and kidney failure.
- Serious allergic reactions.
If you experience side effects from using Ozempic, you are encouraged to report them to the FDA through their MedWatch program.
How can I avoid side effects?
Starting at a low dose and gradually increasing it can avoid or minimize many of the most common side effects.
Can you have an allergic reaction to Ozempic?
Who shouldn’t take Ozempic?
Ozempic is also not recommended if you are pregnant, under 18 years old, or have a history of diabetic retinopathy, according to the Ozempic Safety Information.
How does Ozempic affect mental health?
Can people with type 2 diabetes take Ozempic and Metformin together?
Do you think Ozempic is helpful for people with type 1 diabetes who don’t need to lose weight?
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