Ozempic: What is it and how does it work?

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Ozempic has recently received a lot of attention – both in healthcare and in the media. But what exactly is Ozempic, who can benefit from it and how does it work?

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Here we go through the most important things you need to know about the medicine.

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is a prescription drug that contains the active ingredient semaglutide . It is primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes, but has also been shown to be effective in weight loss – something that has contributed to its popularity. The drug is given as a once-weekly injection and helps lower blood sugar levels and reduce appetite.

How Ozempic works

Ozempic belongs to a group of medicines called GLP-1 analogues . It mimics a natural hormone in the body that is released after meals and that:

  • Stimulates insulin secretion

  • Inhibits the release of glucagon

  • Slows down stomach emptying

  • Reduces hunger and food intake

  • The effects lead to both better blood sugar control and, in many cases, weight loss.

Who can receive Ozempic?

Ozempic is approved for the treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes when diet and exercise are not enough. In some cases, it may also be prescribed for people who are obese or overweight, especially if there are other risk factors such as high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease.

Treatment should always be initiated and monitored by licensed healthcare professionals.

Important to know: Ozempic is not a diet pill and should not be used without medical advice.

Side effects and risks

Like all medicines, Ozempic can cause side effects. The most common are:

  • Nausea

  • Diarrhea or constipation

  • Stomach pain

  • Decreased appetite

  • In rare cases, more serious side effects may occur, and therefore follow-up during treatment is important.

Summary

Ozempic is an effective medication for type 2 diabetes that may also help with weight loss in some patients. It should be used under medical supervision and is not suitable for everyone. Always consult your healthcare provider.

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