This medicine is used for the following purposes:
- diabetes
- obesity / weight loss
Brand Name(s): Ozempic
Generic Name: Semaglutide
Instructions
This medicine is used by injecting it into the skin. Please ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist for the correct places on your body where this medicine can be injected.
Read and make sure you understand the instructions for measuring dose and using syringe. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
Always inspect the medicine before using.
The liquid should be clear and colorless.
Do not use the medicine if it contains any particles or if it has changed color.
Store new medicine in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. Do not allow them to freeze.
If the medicine becomes frozen, you will need to throw it away.
Protect medicine from light.
Once opened, the medicine may be kept in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Do not store the medicine pen with the needle attached. Always remove the needle after each use.
Discard the injectable pen 56 days after first use, even if there is medicine left in the pen.
Never use any medicine that has expired.
Change the location of the injection each time. Choose a location at least 1 inch from the last injection.
It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.
If you forget to use a dose on time, use it as soon as you remember. If it has been more than 5 days, skip the missed dose and use your next dose as scheduled. Do not use 2 doses of this medicine at one time.
Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.
Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.
This medicine may cause low blood sugar. Eat regular meals and exercise as instructed by your doctor. Tell your doctor if you have symptoms of low blood sugar such as nausea, sweating, cold skin, fast heartbeat, hunger, and irritability.
Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.
Cautions
During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
This medicine may increase the risk of cancer. Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks.
Monitor your blood sugar as instructed by your doctor.
Do not use the medication any more than instructed.
Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.
Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.
It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.
Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet showing that you are diabetic.
Carry glucose tablets or hard candy with you in case you experience low blood sugar from this medicine.
Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist how to safely discard unused medicines, needles and syringes.
Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.
Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.
Side Effects
The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.
- constipation or diarrhea
- pain, redness, swelling near injection
- nausea and vomiting
Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:
- severe or persistent abdominal pain
- dizziness
- numbness or tingling in hands and feet
- fast or irregular heart beats
- unusual or long-lasting hoarseness
- signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
- unusual growth or lump on the neck
- shakiness
- shortness of breath
- difficulty swallowing
- sweating
- blurring or changes of vision
- severe or persistent vomiting
A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.
Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice.
There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English. Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below. You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist.
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More information about SEMAGLUTIDE (DIABETES) - INJECTION
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Conditions of Use: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. The display and use of this drug information is subject to express Terms of Use.