Ozempic, commonly known as “Semiglutide” is a US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved drug widely used for type 2 diabetes. It is a weekly injection pushed into the type 2 diabetic patient’s body to reduce blood sugar. It generates more insulin from the pancreas to manage blood sugar.
Over the last few years, Ozempic has been used in various forms for different uses. US FDA approved it in 2017. It is a peptide supports the hormone glucagon. Nowadays, scientists also converted this into oral pills to ease out the consumption of it. As per a pharmaceutical survey in 2022, Ozempic is the 48th commonest drug used in the US and almost 13 million prescriptions are being generated for this drug.
Uses of Ozempic:
- Wonder drug for type 2 diabetes
- Weight management
- Skin and hair quality improvement
Benefits of Ozempic:
- Improves heart health and kidney functions
- Improve sleep apnea
- Highly beneficial for the obese patients
Severe side-effects of Ozempic:
- Pancreatitis
- Hypoglycaemia (severe low blood sugar)
- Severe drug allergy
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Kidney and gallbladder problems
Conclusion
Semaglutide and tirzepatide (Eli Lilly produces this drug) works together to replicate the action of GLP-1 receptor which is already available in our body. For the type 2 diabetics, this receptor loses its power to produce insulin. When Ozempic mixes with the blood, it propels the action of GLP-1. That’s why, many doctors are considering this as a safe drug.
Though it is not clear yet if this drug is safe for pregnant or lactating women. But it is advised to consult with the patient’s healthcare provider for further evaluation. The human trial in 2008 proved to be quite safe, hence, US FDA approved it.
PS — All the images are taken from Google images.