Ozempic It is a drug used for treatment of the type 2 diabetes and whose active ingredient is semaglutide. It is a medication that has proven highly effective in reducing blood glucose levels and weight loss. However, the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS) has indicated that some pharmacies have engaged in irregular practices by selling it as a weight loss medication without a prescription.
However, as with any drug, its use may be associated with a series of side effects which is important to know and monitor in case it is necessary to consult with our doctor. One of the most common collected by the AEMPS are the gastrointestinal disorders, among which are nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and constipation. Nausea is usually most prevalent at the beginning of treatment and tends to decrease over time as the body adapts to the medication. However, in some patients, these symptoms may persist and be severe enough to stop treatment.
The pain or abdominal discomfort They are also relatively common. This symptom may be a direct consequence of the aforementioned gastrointestinal effects. At the same time, Ozempic can induce a reduced appetitewhich, although it can be beneficial in terms of weight management, can also lead to insufficient nutrient intake in some cases.
In addition to the common side effects, the AEMPS highlights some less common but potentially serious adverse effects that should be taken into account:
- Pancreatitis. There is a risk of inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) associated with the use of semaglutide. Patients should be informed about the symptoms of this condition, which include severe and persistent abdominal pain, and should seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms appear.
- Hypoglycemia. Although Ozempic does not usually cause hypoglycemia by itself, the risk of low blood glucose levels increases when it is used in combination with other antidiabetics, especially insulin or sulfonylureas. Symptoms of hypoglycemia may include dizziness, sweating, confusion, and palpitations.
- Allergic reactions. Although rare, serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) can occur with the use of Ozempic. These reactions can manifest as skin rashes, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, and difficulty breathing.
- Renal problems. Semaglutide may affect kidney function, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney diseases. This can manifest as worsening kidney failure.
Given the side effect profile of Ozempic, the AEMPS recommends careful monitoring of patients starting treatment with this medication. Specifically, it is suggested, before starting treatment, evaluate kidney function and the patient’s history of pancreatitis. During treatment, kidney function and blood glucose levels should be monitored regularly.
Additionally, patients should be educated about possible side effects and how to recognize signs of serious complications. This includes clear instructions on what to do in case of symptoms of hypoglycemia, pancreatitis or allergic reactions. It can be necessary adjust the dose of Ozempic depending on the patient’s response and the appearance of side effects. In some cases, it may be necessary to stop treatment if the adverse effects are intolerable.
