Ozempic®, a prescription medication used to manage type 2 diabetes and reduce cardiovascular risks, is associated with a range of potential side effects. It’s crucial to be aware of these effects before starting or continuing treatment. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the side effects of Ozempic®, based on official safety information.
Common Side Effects of Ozempic
Like many medications, Ozempic® can cause some common, often mild, side effects. These are frequently gastrointestinal in nature and may include:
- Nausea: Feeling sick to your stomach is one of the most frequently reported side effects.
- Vomiting: This can occur alongside nausea.
- Diarrhea: Loose and frequent bowel movements are another common issue.
- Stomach (Abdominal) Pain: Discomfort or pain in the stomach area.
- Constipation: Difficulty passing stools or infrequent bowel movements.
These common side effects are usually temporary and may subside as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if they become severe or persistent, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider.
Serious Side Effects of Ozempic
While common side effects are generally manageable, Ozempic® also carries the risk of more serious side effects that require immediate medical attention.
Potential Thyroid Tumors, Including Cancer
Ozempic® carries a warning about the potential risk of thyroid tumors, including thyroid cancer. In animal studies, Ozempic® and similar medications have been linked to thyroid tumors in rodents. It is currently unknown if Ozempic® causes thyroid tumors or medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), a specific type of thyroid cancer, in humans.
It’s vital to contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- A lump or swelling in your neck
- Hoarseness
- Trouble swallowing
- Shortness of breath
These could be signs of thyroid cancer. Individuals with a personal or family history of MTC or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), an endocrine system condition, should not use Ozempic®.
Pancreatitis (Inflammation of the Pancreas)
Ozempic® can cause inflammation of the pancreas, a serious condition known as pancreatitis.
Stop using Ozempic® and seek immediate medical attention if you develop severe, persistent abdominal pain, which may or may not be accompanied by vomiting. The pain may radiate from your abdomen to your back.
Changes in Vision
Vision changes have been reported with Ozempic® use. Inform your healthcare provider if you notice any changes in your vision during treatment. This is particularly important for individuals with diabetic retinopathy, as Ozempic® may worsen this condition.
Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
Using Ozempic®, especially in combination with other diabetes medications like sulfonylureas or insulin, can increase the risk of hypoglycemia or low blood sugar.
Recognize the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar, which can include:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Blurred vision
- Anxiety
- Irritability or mood changes
- Sweating
- Slurred speech
- Hunger
- Confusion or drowsiness
- Shakiness
- Weakness
- Headache
- Fast heartbeat
- Feeling jittery
If you experience symptoms of hypoglycemia, follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for managing low blood sugar.
Dehydration and Kidney Problems
Ozempic® can cause gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration. Dehydration, in turn, can increase the risk of kidney problems.
It is crucial to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration while taking Ozempic®. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience persistent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea that doesn’t resolve.
Severe Stomach Problems
While stomach issues are listed as common side effects, severe stomach problems have also been reported in some individuals using Ozempic®. If you experience stomach problems that are severe or do not go away, inform your healthcare provider.
Serious Allergic Reactions
Although less common, Ozempic® can cause serious allergic reactions.
Discontinue Ozempic® and seek immediate medical help if you develop any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as:
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Problems breathing or swallowing
- Severe rash or itching
- Fainting or feeling dizzy
- Very rapid heartbeat
Gallbladder Problems
Gallbladder problems, including gallstones and cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), have occurred in some people taking Ozempic®.
Contact your healthcare provider right away if you experience symptoms of gallbladder problems, which may include:
- Pain in your upper abdomen
- Fever
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Clay-colored stools
Risk of Food or Liquid Getting into Lungs During Surgery or Procedures
Ozempic® slows down gastric emptying, which may increase the risk of food or liquid entering your lungs if you undergo surgery or procedures requiring anesthesia or deep sedation.
Inform all your healthcare providers that you are taking Ozempic® before any scheduled surgery or procedure. They may take precautions to minimize this risk.
Who Should Not Use Ozempic?
Beyond the contraindications related to MTC and MEN 2, you should not use Ozempic® if you are allergic to semaglutide or any of the inactive ingredients in Ozempic®. Review the full ingredient list and discuss any known allergies with your doctor.
Precautions Before Using Ozempic
Before starting Ozempic®, it’s essential to discuss your complete medical history with your healthcare provider. Inform them if you have or have had:
- Problems with your pancreas
- A history of diabetic retinopathy
- Severe stomach problems, such as gastroparesis (slowed stomach emptying) or problems digesting food
- If you are scheduled for surgery or procedures requiring anesthesia
- If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant. Ozempic® should be stopped at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy. It is unknown if Ozempic® passes into breast milk or harms a nursing infant.
Also, tell your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements, particularly other diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas. Drug interactions can affect how Ozempic® works and increase the risk of side effects.
Conclusion
Ozempic® is an effective medication for managing type 2 diabetes and reducing cardiovascular risks, but it’s associated with a range of potential side effects, some of which can be serious. Being well-informed about these side effects and communicating openly with your healthcare provider is crucial for safe and effective Ozempic® treatment. This information is not exhaustive. For more detailed information, please refer to the official Prescribing Information and Medication Guide for Ozempic®. Always consult with your doctor for personalized medical advice and management of any side effects.
