Generic Name: Semaglutide
Brands: Rybelsus, Ozempic
Class: Antidiabetic Agent, Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Receptor Agonist
Availability: Prescription needed
Molecular Formula: C187H291N45O59
Substance UNII: 53AXN4NNHX
What is Ozempic?
Semaglutide is an antidiabetic agent classified as a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It is sold under the brand names Ozempic and Rybelsus.
What is Ozempic Used For?
This medication is used by adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is administered once a week via subcutaneous injection. It also comes in an oral tablet that is usually taken daily. Ozempic is designed to be used in conjunction with diet and exercise to improve an individual’s blood sugar levels. In addition, semaglutide helps reduce the risk of someone with type 2 diabetes mellitus and heart disease experiencing a major adverse cardiovascular event (e.g., non-fatal stroke, non-fatal myocardial infarction/heart attack, or cardiovascular death).
How Does Ozempic Work?
Ozempic works by imitating the human glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which increases insulin secretion. Insulin is the hormone responsible for lowering blood sugar levels in the body.
Semaglutide also prevents the pancreas from secreting the hormone glucagon, which is responsible for increasing blood sugar levels. Furthermore, this medication decreases an individual’s appetite and slows digestion, which is why it helps with weight loss.
Ozempic is administered via a subcutaneous injection using a pre-filled, metered pen. One advantage of Ozempic is that it has a long duration of action, which means that it only needs to be taken on a weekly basis, as opposed to daily like many of the other antidiabetic medications.
How Long Does It Take Ozempic to Work?
Semaglutide’s absolute bioavailability is 89%, reaching maximum concentration within one to three days after the medication is administered.
Do Not Use Ozempic If:
There are several situations where this medication may not be the right choice for you. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, the following should not use Ozempic:
- Individuals with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)
- Those who have a personal history or a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (thyroid cancer)
- Individuals who know they are hypersensitive to semaglutide or any other components included in this product
Please note that this list may not be complete, and there may be other situations where Ozempic use is not advisable.
Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.
