Is Ozempic the same as semaglutide? - Vital Hormones Clinic

Ozempic and semaglutide refer to the same active ingredient. Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide injection solution, which is approved for treating type 2 diabetes. Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that helps lower blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes. It mimics the effects of GLP-1, an incretin hormone that is released after eating to stimulate the release of insulin while suppressing glucagon secretion. Some key points about semaglutide (Ozempic):

• Mechanism of action:
  • Activates GLP-1 receptors to increase insulin and decrease glucagon
  • Delays gastric emptying to reduce food intake
  • Lowers fasting and postprandial glucose
• Administration: Subcutaneous injection once weekly
• Effectiveness: Lowers A1C by 1-2% on average compared to placebo

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Some potential advantages of semaglutide (Ozempic) versus other GLP-1 receptor agonists:

• Only needs to be dosed once weekly instead of daily injections
• Appears to have strong and sustained A1C lowering abilities
• Can promote some weight loss in addition to glucose control

However, all GLP-1 receptor agonists have relatively similar effects and safety profiles overall. The main differences come down to dosing frequency, cost, and subtle variations in their clinical data.

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Side effects and warnings with semaglutide

• Common: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain
• May increase risk of:
  • Thyroid cancer
  • Pancreatitis
• Not recommended for patients with:
  • Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
  • Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome

Since the effects can lead to dehydration and loss of nutrients, close monitoring and care is advised when starting semaglutide therapy. Staying well-hydrated and taking supplements can help reduce unpleasant symptoms.

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Cost and availability

• Ozempic is a once-weekly injection available in:
  • 0.25 mg dose
  • 0.5 mg dose
  • 1 mg dose
  • 2 mg dose
• Approximate retail cost is over $800 per month without insurance
• The manufacturer offers a savings program bringing costs down to $25-$100 per month for eligible patients

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If you are struggling to manage type 2 diabetes with metformin or other oral medications, Ozempic (semaglutide) may be an excellent treatment option to discuss with your doctor or endocrinologist. This novel therapy can lower blood sugar and body weight more effectively than many alternatives while only needing a simple weekly self-administered shot.

The knowledgeable healthcare professionals at Vital Hormones Clinic specialize in diabetes treatment plans personalized for your lifestyle and needs. We proudly offer Ozempic and all the latest therapies for achieving your health goals. Contact us today for a consultation about whether semaglutide is right for you!