drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Saxenda are injectable drugs that help people with type 2 diabetes lose weight. They’re part of a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. In clinical trials, these drugs were shown to decrease the risk of cardiovascular problems in some adults with type 2 diabetes. But there are concerns about the medications’ side effects, especially gastrointestinal ones. Some patients struggle with nausea and vomiting, which can lead to undereating and malabsorption of nutrients that can affect mood and energy levels. In addition, suicidal thoughts have been reported in people taking these medicines.
The FDA has approved Ozempic to be used along with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. The medicine can help you lose weight and reduce your chances of heart disease. It is not recommended for people with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. It’s also not recommended if you have certain health conditions, including severe liver or kidney disease.
Ozempic and Beyond: Exploring the Best Drugs for Diabetes Management
Serious side effects from Ozempic aren’t common, but they can happen. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the medication.
In some people, this drug can cause inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis). You should tell your doctor right away if you have pain in the stomach area that doesn’t go away with vomiting or diarrhea. You may also have a fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or clay-colored stools.
If you use an injection pen for Ozempic, store it with the needle removed in a cool, dry place away from heat and light. Throw the pen away 56 days after your first use or if the dose counter reads less than 0.25 mg, or if the pen has been dropped or damaged.