A prescription drug only, marketed by Novo Nordisk in Canada, Ozempic is the brand name of semaglutide. The drug has proven to be highly effective in the treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes, as well as a tool for weight management in those with a BMI of 27 or over.
However, information about how the drug actually works is important to know, regardless of its benefits.
In this article we’ll cover:
- What Ozempic is and how it works
- The mechanisms of action associated with Ozempic
- What the administration guidelines and recommended dosage of the drug are
- Four types of people who should not take Ozempic
- How long it may take for you to see results
- Frequently asked questions.
Let’s get into this topic together and cover how Ozempic works!
What Is Ozempic and How Does It Work?
Ozempic — or semaglutide — is a drug used by those with type 2 diabetes to lower their blood sugars and A1C. In addition to helping to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart disease, stroke, heart attack, or death, semaglutide is also approved as a tool for weight management in those with a BMI of 27 or higher.
The active compound in Ozempic is semaglutide. While in Canada it’s marketed by Novo Nordisk as Ozempic, you may also see it under brand names such as Wegovy and Rybelsus. These other brands may also come in different doses to Ozempic.
Semaglutide is usually administered by subcutaneous injection via an Ozempic Pen (similar to an EpiPen), once weekly. You should make sure that the injection site is rotated each time.
It works by “inhibiting gastric and pancreatic lipase enzymes that break down fat in the digestive system”, according to Dr Duane Mellor, a registered dietician from Aston University Medical School. They were quoted in this study on Ozempic’s effectiveness as a weight management assistant.
Mellor continued to explain that, “by preventing these enzymes from working properly, some of the undigested fat is eliminated from the body in stools”.
When used to assist with weight management, the drug is typically used over the course of 12 weeks.
Ozempic — Mechanism of Action
Possible Side Effects
Semaglutide has several potential side effects and symptoms. More common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Headaches.
More serious side effects include:
- Changes in vision
- Hypoglycemia
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
- Kidney damage or failure
- Thyroid cancer.
If you experience any symptoms of the more severe side effects listed above, stop your use of Ozempic immediately and contact your medical team, or go to the ER at your local hospital.
It’s important to remember that no medications or treatments are without risk, and you should always speak to your medical team before beginning new drugs.
Recommended Dosage & Administration Guidelines
Minimum Dosage Requirements
Ozempic is typically taken through weekly injections, usually starting at 0.25mg and increasing to 0.5mg around 5 weeks, where the dose will be maintained for the duration of treatment.
In some cases, your medical team may necessitate increasing your dose to 1mg or 2mg, but this will be in consultation with you after seeing your response to the drug.
Who Should Not Take Ozempic?
People with Certain Medical Conditions
Those with the following medical condition are not advised to take Ozempic:
- Pancreatitis
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2
- Kidney disease
- Diabetic retinopathy.
This is due to the potential risks involved with the drug.
People With a Family History of Certain Health Issues
If you have a family or personal history of the following, you should avoid Ozempic:
- Medullary thyroid carcinoma
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2.
Adults With Type 1 Diabetes
Semaglutide has not been approved for use in adults with type 1 diabetes.
However, there has been some discussion about whether semaglutide could be used by those with type 1 diabetes, and many medical professionals believe the risks would outweigh the benefits.
Pregnant or Nursing Women
If you are pregnant, it is strongly advised that you do not take Ozempic, as studies have shown that Ozempic may harm the fetus.
If you become pregnant while taking Ozempic, you should stop taking it immediately.
If you’re already using Ozempic and are planning on conceiving, talk to your medical team for more details, as it’s likely you’ll need to adjust your treatment plan.
How Long Does It Take for Ozempic to Work?
Though it will vary from person to person, generally speaking, within a week on Ozempic your blood sugar levels should have declined significantly. The full effects may take eight weeks or longer for you to notice a significant improvement.
When using Ozempic to assist weight management, it will be several months before the drug is used at full dosage. However, it’s likely you’ll see the effects after a few weeks.
Key Takeaways
The official purpose of Ozempic is to help those with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels. This drug is not to be mistaken for insulin, nor is it a replacement of insulin.
However, thanks to its side effects which may positively assist weight management, it is also approved by Health Canada for use by those with a BMI over 27.
Be aware of the risks involved with starting Ozempic, and ensure that you consult with your medical team if you’re considering starting the drug.
