Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Syncope
Ozempic
Medically reviewed by Melisa Puckey, BPharm. Last updated on Dec 20, 2022.
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic (semaglutide) is a once-weekly injection that is FDA approved for use by adults with type 2 diabetes to control their blood sugar levels. Ozempic is also used by adults with type 2 diabetes who have heart and blood vessel disease to reduce their risk of a stroke, heart attack, or death. The active ingredient (semaglutide) in Ozempic has also been shown in clinical trials to be useful for weight loss, however Ozempic is currently not an FDA approved weight loss drug.
Ozempic is used when other medications have been tried but have not controlled the sugar levels well enough. It should be used along with a diet and exercise program.
Type 2 Diabetes is a long term condition when your blood sugars become too high as the body does not produce or use insulin normally. If you have high blood sugars over a period of time it can cause serious health problems including heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, nerve damage, and eye problems
Ozempic works to lower blood sugar levels by helping the pancreas to release the right amount of insulin when blood sugar levels are high, which moves sugar from the blood into other body tissues where it is used for energy. Ozempic injection also works by slowing the movement of food through the stomach and may decrease appetite and cause weight loss.
Ozempic injection is from a class of medications called incretin mimetics. Ozempic acts as a glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) receptor agonist that selectively binds to and activates the GLP-1 receptor, the target for native GLP-1. GLP-1 is a hormone that has multiple effects on glucose, mediated by the GLP-1 receptors.
This medicine is not used to treat type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis (a serious condition that may develop if high blood sugar is not treated). Ozempic is not used to replace insulin to treat people with diabetes who need insulin.
Related/similar drugs
Is Ozempic used for weight loss?
Ozempic contains the active ingredient semaglutide, which is FDA approved for weight loss under the brand name Wegovy, but the Ozempic brand of semaglutide is not FDA approved for weight loss.
Ozempic contains the same active ingredient (semaglutide) as:
- Wegovy injections which are used weekly for weight loss in adults who have obesity, or are overweight (excess weight) and also have weight-related medical problems.
- Rybelsus tablets which are taken daily to lower blood sugar levels for type 2 diabetic patients along with diet and exercise.
Important Information
Ozempic injection may increase the risk that you will develop tumors of the thyroid gland, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) which is a type of thyroid cancer. Laboratory animals who were given semaglutide developed tumors, but it is not known if this medication increases the risk of tumors in humans.
Tell your doctor if you or anyone in your family has or has ever had MTC or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) which is a condition that causes tumors in more than one gland in the body. If so, your doctor will probably tell you not to use this medicine. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately: a lump or swelling in the neck; hoarseness; difficulty swallowing; or shortness of breath.
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain tests to check your body’s response to this medicine.
Your doctor or pharmacist will give you the manufacturer’s patient information sheet when you begin treatment and each time you refill your prescription. The medication Guide is available on this link Medication Guide Read the information carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Talk to your doctor about the risks of using this medicine.
Before using Ozempic
- Tell your doctor and pharmacist f you are allergic to semaglutide, albiglutide (Tanzeum; no longer available in the US), dulaglutide (Trulicity), exenatide (Bydureon, Byetta), liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza), lixisenatide (Adlyxin, one of the active ingredients in Soliqua), any other medications, or any of the ingredients in Ozempic injection. Ask your pharmacist or check the Medication Guide for a list of the ingredients.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), diabetic retinopathy (damage to the eyes caused by diabetes), gallbladder disease, or kidney disease. Also tell your doctor if you have recently had diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting or if you cannot drink liquids by mouth, which may cause dehydration (loss of a large amount of body fluids).
- If you plan to become pregnant. Your doctor may tell you to stop using Ozempic for 2 months before a planned pregnancy.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while using this medicine, call your doctor.
- Ask your doctor what to do if there is a large change in your diet, exercise, or weight; or if you get sick, develop an infection or fever, experience unusual stress, or are injured. These changes and conditions can affect your blood sugar and the amount of this medicine you may need.
- You should know that your mental health may change in unexpected ways and you may become suicidal (thinking about harming or killing yourself or planning or trying to do so) while you are using semaglutide injection for weight loss. You, your family, or your caregiver should call your doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms: depression; talking or thinking about wanting to hurt yourself or end your life; withdrawing from friends and family; preoccupation with death and dying; or any other unusual changes in behavior or mood. Be sure that your family or caregiver knows which symptoms may be serious so they can call the doctor if you are unable to seek treatment on your own.
How should I use Ozempic?
Ozempic comes as a solution (liquid) in a prefilled dosing pen to inject subcutaneously (under the skin). It is usually injected once a week without regard to meals, on the same day each week at any time of day. You may change the day of the week that you use semaglutide as long as it has been 2 or more days (48 or more hours) since you used your last dose.
Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of Ozempic and increase your dose after 4 weeks. Your doctor may increase your dose again after another 4 weeks based on your body’s response to the medication.
Ozempic can be injected into your upper arm, thigh, or stomach area. Change (rotate) the injection site with each injection. You can inject Ozempic and insulin in the same body area, but you should not give the injections right next to each other. Allow the pen to warm to room temperature before injecting if the pen was stored in the refrigerator.
Always look at the solution before you inject it. It should be clear, colorless, and free of particles. Do not use this medicine if it is colored, cloudy, thickened, or contains solid particles, or if the expiration date on the bottle has passed.
Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use this medicine exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions for use that comes with the medication. These instructions describe how to inject a dose Ozempic . Be sure to ask your pharmacist or doctor if you have any questions about how to inject this medication.
This medicine helps to control blood sugar levels, but it is not a cure. Continue to use this medicine even if you feel well. Do not stop using this medicine without talking to your doctor.
Never reuse needles and never share needles or pens. Always remove the needle right after you inject your dose. Dispose of needles in a puncture-resistant container. Ask your doctor or pharmacist how to dispose of the puncture resistant container.
What are the side effects of Ozempic?
Ozempic may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms call your doctor immediately or get emergency medical treatment:
- ongoing pain that begins in the upper left or middle of the stomach but may spread to the back, with or without vomiting
- rash; itching; swelling of the eyes, face, mouth, tongue, or throat; or difficulty breathing or swallowing
- decreased urination; or swelling of legs, ankles, or feet
- vision changes
- fainting or dizziness
- pain in upper stomach; yellowing of skin or eyes; fever; or clay-colored stools, rapid heartbeat
This medicine may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while using this medication.If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online or by phone (1-800-332-1088).
What other drugs will affect Ozempic?
Ozempic can slow your digestion, and it may take longer for your body to absorb any medicines you take by mouth.
Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially insulin or other diabetes medicine, such as dulaglutide, exenatide, liraglutide, Byetta, Trulicity, Victoza, and others.
Other drugs may interact with Ozempic, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. It is especially important to tell your doctor about all the medications you take by mouth because Ozempic may change the way your body absorbs these medications.
What should I do if I miss an Ozempic dose?
If you miss an Ozempic dose then inject the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if more than 5 days have passed since the missed dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not inject a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
In case of overdose, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. Information is also available online at Poison Help. If the victim has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can’t be awakened, immediately call emergency services at 911.
Storage
Keep this medication in the container it came in and out of reach of children. Store it away from light and heat, with the pen cap on.
Store unused Ozempic in the refrigerator (36°F to 46°F [2°C to 8°C]) but do not place them near the refrigerator cooling element. Once a pen is in use you can store it at room temperature (59°F to 86°F [15°C to 30°C]) or in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Do not use this medicine if it has been frozen. When traveling, pens that are in use can be stored at room temperature (59°F to 86°F [15°C to 30°C]) (not in a car glove compartment or other hot place).
Make a note of the date you first use a semaglutide pen, and dispose of the pen after 56 days, even if there is some solution left in the pen.
What are the ingredients in Ozempic?
Active Ingredient: semaglutide
Inactive Ingredients: disodium phosphate dihydrate, propylene glycol, phenol and water for injection.
Ozempic is manufactured by Novo Nordisk A/S, DK-2880 Bagsvaerd, Denmark
Popular FAQ
Mounjaro, Wegovy and Ozempic all lead to significant amounts of weight loss, but only Wegovy is currently approved by the FDA for chronic weight management. Mounjaro and Ozempic are both approved to help control blood glucose (sugar) levels in patients with type 2 diabetes, but weight loss has also been seen in Phase 3 clinical trials. Continue reading
Your blood glucose (sugar) levels should start to fully decline within the first week after you start using Ozempic (semaglutide) at your regular dose. However, the full effect can take 8 weeks or longer, as this is a long-acting medication that is injected only once per week. Continue reading
For maintenance treatment of high blood sugar, Ozempic pens come in 3 sizes. Each pen holds 4 weekly maintenance doses of either 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg of medicine and will last for one month. Continue reading
Mounjaro and Ozempic are prescription medicines, used alongside diet and exercise, to help control blood sugar (glucose) levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. Ozempic is also approved to lower the risk of a major cardiovascular event (like a heart attack or stroke) in patients with type 2 diabetes. Mounjaro has not yet received this indication, although studies are ongoing. Continue reading
Ozempic and Wegovy are the two brand names that Novo Nordisk uses to market injectable semaglutide. Ozempic is used to treat type 2 diabetes and prevent major cardiovascular problems in certain patients, while Wegovy is used for chronic weight management and helps with weight loss. Ozempic and Wegovy come in different strengths to treat the different conditions. Continue reading
Ozempic (semaglutide) should stay refrigerated until the first time you use it. Keep it refrigerated (between 36°F to 46°F or 2°C to 8°C) when it’s new and unused. After you’ve used your pen for the first time, you can either store your pen for 56 days at room temperature (between 59ºF to 86ºF or 15ºC to 30ºC) or you can still keep it in the refrigerator for 56 days. The Ozempic pen you are using should be disposed of (thrown away) after 56 days (whether kept in the refrigerator or at room temperature). Continue reading
There are no specific foods you must avoid when taking Ozempic. You should avoid regular consumption of foods high in fat, sugar and calories. Ozempic works best if you combine it with a healthy diet and exercise plan as recommended by your doctor for treatment for type 2 diabetes. If Ozempic upsets your stomach, you can try to eat smaller meals, avoid fatty or fried foods, and limit alcohol intake. Stomach side effects with initial Ozempic treatment typically resolve over time. Continue reading
References
- FDA Label Ozempic
- Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity
Ozempic Side Effects
Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Oct 5, 2022.
Note: This document contains side effect information about semaglutide. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Ozempic.
Applies to semaglutide: oral tablet. Other dosage forms:
Warning
Oral route (Tablet)
Warning: Risk of Thyroid C-Cell TumorsIn rodents, semaglutide causes thyroid C-cell tumors. It is unknown whether semaglutide causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans as the human relevance of semaglutide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined.Semaglutide is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Counsel patients regarding the potential risk of MTC and symptoms of thyroid tumors
Serious side effects of Ozempic
Along with its needed effects, semaglutide (the active ingredient contained in Ozempic) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking semaglutide:
More common
- Anxiety
- bloating
- blurred vision
- chills
- cold sweats
- confusion
- constipation
- cool, pale skin
- cough
- darkened urine
- depression
- diarrhea
- difficulty swallowing
- dizziness
- fast heartbeat
- fever
- headache
- increased hunger
- indigestion
- large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
- loss of appetite
- nausea
- nervousness
- nightmare
- pain in the stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back
- seizures
- skin rash
- slurred speech
- tightness in the chest
- trouble breathing
- unusual tiredness or weakness
- vomiting
- yellow eyes or skin
Other side effects of Ozempic
Some side effects of semaglutide may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
Less common
- Acid or sour stomach
- belching
- excess air or gas in stomach
- feeling pressure in the stomach
- heartburn
- passing gas
- stomach discomfort, swelling, tenderness, or upset
For Healthcare Professionals
Applies to semaglutide: oral tablet, subcutaneous solution.
General
The most commonly reported adverse reactions have included nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation. [Ref]
Oncologic
GLP- 1 Receptor Agonist:
Postmarketing reports: Medullary thyroid cancer
Cases of Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) have been reported in patients treated with liraglutide in the postmarketing period; the data in these reports is insufficient to establish or exclude a causal relationship between MTC and GLP-1 receptor agonist use in humans.
Gastrointestinal
Very common (10% or more): Nausea (up to 44%), increased amylase (up to 13%), increased lipase (up to 22%), diarrhea (up to 30%), vomiting (up to 24%), constipation (up to 24%), abdominal pain (up to 20%),
Frequency not reported: Acute and necrotizing pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis
In clinical trials for type 2 diabetes, acute pancreatitis was confirmed by adjudication in 7 (0.3 cases per 100 patient years) and 8 patients (0.27 per 100 patient years) in 2 separate trials (compared to 3 and 10 placebo treated patients, respectively). One case of chronic pancreatitis was confirmed. In clinical trials for weight loss, 4 cases of acute pancreatitis were confirmed by adjudication (vs 1 placebo case). In weight loss trials, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain were reported more frequently than in clinical trials for type 2 diabetes.
Hypersensitivity
Frequency not reported: Angioedema
Postmarketing reports: Ananaphylaxis, rash, urticaria
Ocular
In a 2-year trial among patients with type 2 diabetes and high cardiovascular risk, patients treated with this drug experienced a great incidence of diabetic retinopathy complications (3% vs 1.8%). The absolute risk was greater in patients with a history of diabetic retinopathy at baseline (8.2%[drug] vs 5.2%[placebo]) than those without (0.7%[drug] vs 0.4%[placebo]).
Common (1% to 10%): Diabetic retinopathy complications
Metabolic
Very common (10% or more): Hypoglycemia (up to 30% when used in combination with basal insulin)
Common (1% to 10%): Hypoglycemia, decreased appetite, weight loss
In the weight loss clinical trials, patients without type 2 diabetes experienced episodes of hypoglycemia.
Local
Common (1% to 10%): Injection site reactions
Immunologic
Frequency not reported: Development of anti-semaglutide (the active ingredient contained in Ozempic) antibodies
As with other protein and peptide pharmaceuticals, patients receiving this drug have developed anti-semaglutide antibodies. The detection of antibody formation is highly dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay, as well as other factor in handling of the sample. For these reasons, the incidence of antibodies cannot be directly compared with other products. Anti-drug antibodies to semaglutide have been reported in up to 1% of patients during clinical trials.
Hepatic
Frequency not reported: Acute gallbladder disease
Cholelithiasis has been reported in 1.5% and 0.4% of patients receiving 0.5 mg and 1 mg weekly, respectively.
Other
Very common (10% or more): Fatigue (up to 11%)
Fatigue was reported in greater than 0.4% of patients.
Nervous system
Very common (10% or more): Headache (up to 14%)
Common (1% to 10%): Dizziness
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Dysgeusia
Renal
Postmarketing reports: Acute kidney injury, worsening of chronic renal failure
Cardiovascular
A mean increase in heart rate of 2 to 3 beats per minute (bpm) was reported in clinical trials for type 2 diabetes. In weight loss clinical trials, a mean increase in resting heart rate of 1 to 4 bpm was observed. Maximal changes from baseline at any visit of 10 to 19 bpm (41% vs 34% placebo) and 20 bpm (26% vs 16% placebo) were recorded. In weight loss clinical trials, Hypotension and orthostatic hypotension were more frequently seen in patients on concomitant antihypertensive therapy. Some reactions were related to gastrointestinal reactions and associated volume loss.
Common (1% to 10%): Hypotension, orthostatic hypotension
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Syncope
Frequency not reported: Increased heart rate
Dermatologic
Common (1% to 10%): Hair loss
Frequently asked questions
- How do Mounjaro, Wegovy & Ozempic compare for weight loss?
- How long does it take for Ozempic to work?
- How many doses are in an Ozempic pen?
- Mounjaro vs Ozempic: How do they compare?
- Ozempic vs Wegovy: What’s the difference between them?
- Does Ozempic need to be refrigerated?
- Taking Ozempic: What foods should you avoid?
- What is Ozempic used for and how does it work?
- How does Ozempic help with weight loss?
- Where and how should Ozempic be injected?
- What type of drug is Ozempic (semaglutide)?
- Does Rybelsus help with weight loss?
- How long does it take for Rybelsus to start working?
- What is Rybelsus used for and how does it work?
More about Ozempic (semaglutide)
- Check interactions
- Pricing & coupons
- Reviews (763)
- Drug images
- Dosage information
- Patient tips
- During pregnancy
- Support group
- FDA approval history
- Drug class: incretin mimetics
- Breastfeeding
Patient resources
- Drug Information
- Ozempic (Advanced Reading)
Side Effects of Ozempic: What You Need to Know
If you have type 2 diabetes, Ozempic (semaglutide) may be a treatment option for you.
Ozempic is used to:
- help lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes (when used with diet and exercise)
- help reduce the risk for certain cardiovascular problems (related to the heart or blood vessels) in adults with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease
Ozempic is given by subcutaneous injection (an injection under your skin). You’ll use it once a week as part of your diabetes treatment plan to help meet your daily and long-term blood sugar goals.
For more details on Ozempic, see this in-depth article.
Ozempic may cause mild or serious side effects in some people. Keep reading to learn more.
Note: Ozempic isn’t used to treat type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious diabetes complication. Talk with your doctor to learn more.
Like all drugs, Ozempic may cause side effects in some people. The more commonly reported side effects of Ozempic include:
- abdominal (belly) pain
- constipation
- diarrhea
- nausea or vomiting
Ozempic may cause other side effects, too. Talk with your doctor about your specific risk for side effects from this drug.
Learn more about Ozempic’s side effects in the next sections.
Ozempic can cause mild side effects in some people. These may include:
- change in the way things taste
- abdominal (belly) pain
- burping*
- constipation or diarrhea
- dizziness
- headache
- flatulence (gas)*
- fatigue (lack of energy)
- indigestion (upset stomach) or acid reflux
- injection-site reactions, such as skin redness, discoloration, or discomfort
- nausea or vomiting
- minor increase in heart rate
In most cases, these side effects should be temporary. Some may be easily managed, too. But if you have any symptoms that are ongoing or that bother you, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. And don’t stop using Ozempic unless your doctor recommends it.
Ozempic may cause other mild side effects, too. To learn more, see the Ozempic prescribing information.
Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks and reviews side effects of the medication. If you’d like to notify the FDA about a side effect you’ve had with Ozempic, visit MedWatch.
* For more information on this side effect, see the “Side effects explained” section below.
In rare cases, Ozempic may cause serious side effects. Before starting treatment, talk with your doctor about your risk for serious side effects from this drug.
Serious side effects of Ozempic can include:
- diabetic retinopathy (damaged blood vessels in the eye)
- gallbladder disease, including gallstones or cholecystitis (gallbladder pain and swelling)
- kidney problems
- pancreatitis* (swelling of the pancreas)
- increased risk of thyroid cancer*†
- allergic reaction*
- hypoglycemia* (low blood sugar)
* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Side effects explained” section below.
† Ozempic has a boxed warning for an increased risk of thyroid cancer. This is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To learn more, see the “Side effects explained” section below.
Get answers to some frequently asked questions about Ozempic’s side effects.
Can Ozempic cause weight loss?
Yes, Ozempic can cause weight loss in some people. Although the drug isn’t approved for weight loss, some people using Ozempic in studies lost weight. In these studies, Ozempic was either used alone or with other treatments for type 2 diabetes.
Another diabetes drug, Saxenda (liraglutide), is approved for weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes. Saxenda is in the same drug class as Ozempic. (A drug class is a group of medications that work in a similar way.)
Saxenda can’t be used with Ozempic. If you’re interested in learning more about Saxenda or other weight-management treatments, talk with your doctor.
Are there foods to avoid while taking Ozempic?
No, you don’t have to avoid any specific foods during your Ozempic treatment. Also, the drug can be taken with or without food.
However, Ozempic is used to improve blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes, and it’s used along with diet and exercise. To reach your blood sugar goals while using Ozempic, you should follow the nutrition guidelines that your doctor recommends.
If you have changes to your diet, activity level, or weight, your diabetes treatment plan may need to be adjusted. Talk with your doctor if you have any of these changes.
How long do Ozempic side effects last?
In general, mild side effects of Ozempic should be temporary or manageable while you’re using the drug.
However, after stopping Ozempic, it could take your body about 5 weeks after your last dose to fully clear the drug from your system. So you could have side effects during this period.
And you could experience some serious side effects, such as worsening diabetic retinopathy, even after Ozempic has been fully cleared from your system.
If you have questions or concerns about how long side effects from Ozempic could last, talk with your doctor.
Does Ozempic cause hair loss?
No, Ozempic shouldn’t cause hair loss. Hair loss wasn’t seen in studies of Ozempic.
However, hair loss has been linked with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Diabetes-related hair loss isn’t fully understood, but it may be caused by various factors. These may include:
- damaged hair follicles from long periods of high blood sugar or poor circulation
- stress from managing a chronic (long-term) condition
- having hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone levels) along with diabetes
Also, many people with diabetes take medications to treat other chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease (CVD). In rare cases, certain drugs used to treat CVD, such as statins or angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, may cause hair loss.
If you’re experiencing hair loss, contact your doctor right away. If it’s related to blood sugar management, they may change your diabetes treatment plan. If it’s not, your doctor will check for other causes and discuss treatment options with you.
Learn more about some of the side effects Ozempic may cause.
Thyroid cancer risk
Ozempic has a boxed warning about the possible risk of thyroid cancer. Ozempic has caused thyroid cancer in animals. It’s unclear if this drug also increases thyroid cancer risk in humans.
However, to lower the possible risk of thyroid cancer, don’t use Ozempic if:
- you have a rare genetic condition called multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2
- you or a family member has had medullary thyroid cancer
What might help
While using Ozempic, tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of thyroid cancer, such as:
- a lump or pain in your neck
- trouble swallowing
- shortness of breath or wheezing
- hoarse voice that doesn’t get better
If you’re diagnosed with thyroid cancer, your doctor will stop your Ozempic and adjust your diabetes treatment plan.
Gas and burping
Flatulence (gas) and burping can occur with Ozempic, but they aren’t the most common digestive system side effects. Some more common digestive system side effects include constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
Burping is also a symptom of acid reflux or indigestion (upset stomach). These are both digestive system side effects that can occur with Ozempic, too.
What might help
In most cases, gas and burping are considered mild side effects. But if they bother you or don’t go away during your Ozempic treatment, talk with your doctor. They may suggest diet changes or an over-the-counter (OTC) medication, such as Gas-X (simethicone), to help relieve gas and burping.
If your burping is related to acid reflux or indigestion, your doctor may suggest an OTC antacid, such as Pepcid (famotidine) or Tums (calcium carbonate tablets).
Contact your doctor right away if you have gas or burping along with vomiting or severe pain in your back or abdomen (belly). These could be symptoms of pancreatitis (swelling of the pancreas), which is a serious side effect of Ozempic. (See “Pancreatitis” below to learn more.)
Dizziness
Some people may experience dizziness while using Ozempic. However, this isn’t a common symptom of Ozempic.
Dizziness could also be a symptom of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Hypoglycemia is a serious side effect of Ozempic that can cause severe health problems if it’s not treated.
What might help
Talk with your doctor right away if you feel dizzy while using Ozempic.
Before starting Ozempic, ask your doctor how often you should check your blood sugar. Also, ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain the symptoms of low blood sugar and how to manage these episodes.
Your doctor or pharmacist may suggest that you carry OTC glucose products so you’re ready to treat low blood sugar quickly before it becomes severe. (See “Hypoglycemia” below to learn more.)
Pancreatitis
In rare cases, Ozempic may cause pancreatitis (swelling of the pancreas). This can be either acute (short-term) pancreatitis or chronic pancreatitis.
Your pancreas is a gland that releases enzymes (proteins) and substances, such as insulin, needed to digest foods and use energy. When the pancreas becomes inflamed, the swelling can damage your pancreas and cause symptoms.
Acute pancreatitis usually lasts for a short period of time and goes away after treatment. Chronic pancreatitis may develop with continued damage to the pancreas over time.
What might help
Before starting Ozempic, tell your doctor if you’ve had pancreatitis or other pancreatic problems before. It may be unsafe for you to use Ozempic. If so, your doctor will prescribe another diabetes treatment.
While using Ozempic, watch for pancreatitis symptoms, such as:
- abdomen (belly) pain that may radiate to your back
- nausea or vomiting
- bloating
- fever
Contact your doctor right away if you experience any of these symptoms. If your doctor confirms you have pancreatitis, they’ll stop your Ozempic treatment and manage your condition.
Hypoglycemia
Ozempic may cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). This side effect is more common if you use Ozempic along with insulin or other diabetes drugs. Making certain lifestyle changes, such as fasting or suddenly changing your diet, can cause low blood sugar, too.
If your blood sugar gets too low, it can cause symptoms or serious health problems. Examples of these problems include dizziness, blurred vision, or seizures.
What might help
Before starting Ozempic, tell your doctor if you take insulin or any other medications. They may adjust your insulin regimen or your dosage of other diabetes drugs to help prevent low blood sugar with Ozempic.
Follow your prescribed diabetes treatment plan, including your meal plan, to keep your blood sugar in a healthy range. If you change your diet or physical activity level, tell your doctor. And tell them if you gain or lose a lot of weight. These factors can affect your blood sugar and may make you more likely to have episodes of hypoglycemia.
Symptoms of hypoglycemia can vary, but common symptoms to watch for include:
- dizziness
- shakiness
- chills or sweating
- confusion or clumsiness
- skin that is paler than usual
- blurry vision
- intense hunger
You should keep foods on hand that can raise your blood sugar quickly if you have an episode of hypoglycemia. Or you can try OTC glucose gels or chewable glucose tablets.
If you have severe hypoglycemia, call 911 or your local emergency phone number, or have someone drive you to the emergency room. (You shouldn’t drive yourself during an episode of severe hypoglycemia.)
Allergic reaction
Like most drugs, Ozempic can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Symptoms can be mild, such as:
- rash
- itchiness
- flushing (temporary warmth, redness, or deepening of skin color)
But in rare cases, Ozempic may cause a serious allergic reaction with severe symptoms, such as:
- swelling under your skin, typically in your eyelids, lips, hands, or feet
- swelling of your mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe
What might help
If you have mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as a mild rash, call your doctor right away. They may suggest an OTC treatment to manage your symptoms. Examples of these treatments include an antihistamine such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine) or a hydrocortisone cream.
If your doctor confirms you had a mild allergic reaction to Ozempic, they’ll decide if you should continue using the drug.
If you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling or trouble breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. These symptoms could be life threatening and require immediate medical care.
If your doctor confirms you had a serious allergic reaction to Ozempic, they’ll have you stop using the drug and switch you to a different treatment.
- what dose of drug you were taking when you had the side effect
- how soon after starting that dose you had the side effect
- what your symptoms were from the side effect
- how it affected your daily activities
- what other medications you were also taking
- any other information you feel is important
Ozempic has some warnings that may affect whether or not you can safely use this drug.
Boxed warning: Thyroid cancer risk
Ozempic has a boxed warning about the possible risk of thyroid cancer. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Ozempic has caused thyroid cancer in animals. It’s unclear if the drug also increases thyroid cancer risk in humans. To lower the potential risk of thyroid cancer, don’t use Ozempic if:
- you have a rare genetic condition called multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2
- you or a family member has had medullary thyroid cancer
For more details, see the “Side effects explained” section above.
Other warnings
Ozempic may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health. Talk with your doctor about your health history before you take Ozempic. Factors to consider include those in the list below.
Kidney problems. Before starting Ozempic, tell your doctor if you’ve had any kidney problems. Drugs such as Ozempic have caused new or worsening kidney disease, including kidney failure, in some people. If you become dehydrated from other side effects of Ozempic, such as vomiting or diarrhea, this could also cause kidney problems. Your doctor may monitor your kidney health closely during your Ozempic treatment. If you develop new or worsening kidney problems, they may stop your treatment.
Allergic reaction to GLP-1 agonists. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to Ozempic or any of its ingredients, you shouldn’t take Ozempic. Also tell your doctor if you’ve had an allergic reaction to another GLP-1 agonist (the drug class Ozempic belongs to). If you have, you could have an allergic reaction to Ozempic, which could be severe. Your doctor can prescribe a safer treatment option for you.
Diabetic retinopathy. If you have diabetic retinopathy, using Ozempic may make it worse. Tell your doctor if you have this condition before starting Ozempic. While using this drug, keep all your eye appointments and tell your doctor right away if you have any vision changes.
Insulin or other diabetes drug use. Using Ozempic with insulin or other diabetes drugs may raise your risk for severe hypoglycemia. If untreated, this condition can cause serious health problems. Before starting Ozempic, tell your doctor about all medications you take. They may adjust your insulin regimen or your dosage of other diabetes drugs to help prevent hypoglycemia with Ozempic. But don’t make changes to your diabetes treatment plan unless your doctor recommends it.
Alcohol and Ozempic
Ozempic isn’t known to interact with alcohol. However, Ozempic lowers your blood sugar. Alcohol may make your blood sugar drop, too. So, drinking alcohol during your Ozempic treatment may cause severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Also, chronic (long-term) alcohol consumption is a common cause of pancreatitis (swelling of the pancreas). Using Ozempic may raise your risk for pancreatitis, too. To help prevent these health problems, avoid excessive alcohol use during your Ozempic treatment.
If you drink alcohol, talk with your doctor about how much may be safe for you to drink with your condition and treatment plan.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Ozempic
It’s unknown if Ozempic is safe to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
If you’re planning to become pregnant, you’ll need to stop Ozempic at least 2 months before trying to conceive. This waiting period ensures your body has fully cleared the drug from your system. If you become pregnant while using Ozempic, talk with your doctor right away.
If you’re breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using Ozempic.
If you have type 2 diabetes, Ozempic may help improve your blood sugar levels. If you also have cardiovascular disease (CVD), it can lower your risk for heart attack, stroke, or death from CVD.
Ozempic can cause side effects in some people. In general, Ozempic’s common side effects are mild. But in rare cases, the drug could cause serious side effects.
If you have questions about possible side effects with Ozempic, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can provide answers to help you feel confident about your diabetes treatment plan. Examples of questions you may want to ask include:
- What’s my risk for serious side effects?
- Is there anything I can do to prevent diabetic retinopathy while using Ozempic?
- If I have kidney disease and have diarrhea with Ozempic, is it safe to drink electrolyte replacement solutions such as Pedialyte to stay hydrated?
- How should I manage injection-site reactions with Ozempic?
- I have gallstones that I manage through my diet. Should I avoid using Ozempic?
To learn more about Ozempic, see these articles:
- All About Ozempic’s Dosage
- Ozempic and Cost: What You Need to Know
- Ozempic Interactions: Alcohol, Medications, and Others
- Ozempic vs. Victoza: Which Is Better for Me?
To get information on different conditions and tips for improving your health, subscribe to any of Healthline’s newsletters. You may also want to check out the online communities at Bezzy. It’s a place where people with certain conditions can find support and connect with others.
Q:
I’ve read that I may need Baqsimi, which contains glucagon, to treat severe episodes of hypoglycemia. What is glucagon and how is it used?
A:
Baqsimi is a prescription drug your doctor may prescribe to treat severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which diabetes medications such as Ozempic may cause. Baqsimi contains glucagon, a hormone that your body normally makes. It tells your liver to make glucose (sugar) when your blood sugar level is too low.
Baqsimi works with your liver to make glucose quickly available to your body. This raises your blood sugar level.
Baqsimi is a nasal (nose) spray. It’s given as one spray into one nostril during an episode of severe hypoglycemia. With severe hypoglycemia, your blood sugar level can get so low that you may need someone else’s help to treat it. For this reason, make sure your family members, friends, caregivers, and coworkers know how to recognize the symptoms of severe hypoglycemia and how to use Baqsimi.
If you have questions about whether you need a prescription for Baqsimi, talk with your doctor.
The Healthline Pharmacist Team Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.
Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.
Last medically reviewed on November 6, 2022
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