A guide to the Ozempic weight loss pen

An Introduction to the Ozempic Injection Pen

The struggle of those suffering from type two diabetes is a well-documented one. There are many medications that are out there that provide relief from symptoms and ensure that the condition is kept controlled. One such medication is Ozempic. Ozempic, however, can also be used for other conditions. Perhaps the most well-known use of Ozempic is to lose weight. Many people have heard of weight loss pens, however, Ozempic has somewhat gone under the radar. In this article, we will provide you with a guide to the Ozempic weight loss pen, answering some questions you may have regarding this medication. 

VIDEO: An overview of Ozempic

What is Ozempic and what is Ozempic used for?

Ozempic is an injectable medication that is used for keeping blood sugar levels regulated in those suffering from type two diabetes. Ozempic, however, can also be used to help people to lose weight. Ozempic is an injectable medication, meaning that people using it will use an injectable pen as opposed to other forms of medication such as liquid or tablet. The pen is injected directly into the skin and the medication is then put into the system this way. Ozempic is becoming an increasingly popular medication not just for type two diabetes sufferers, but also for those wanting to lose weight due to its excellent results.

How does Ozempic work?

Ozempic works by injecting medication directly into the skin, as opposed to consuming it via a tablet or liquid. Ozempic works in three different ways to help lower blood sugar levels for type two diabetes sufferers. Here are the three ways in which Ozempic lowers blood sugar levels.

Pancreas

Ozempic helps the pancreas to produce more insulin when your blood sugar is too high.

Liver

Ozempic will help to prevent the liver from producing and releasing too much sugar.

Stomach

Ozempic will help the stomach to slow down food release after eating.

Ozempic is a non-insulin medication. It works with your body's natural ability to lower blood sugar by binding itself to your GLP-1 receptors. This means that it is a response medication that helps the pancreas to release insulin when your blood sugar levels are too high.

How is Ozempic used?

As mentioned, Ozempic is a different type of medication to others you may be aware of. Unlike medications that are in tablet or liquid form, Ozempic is an injectable medication, similar to injectable insulin. When you receive your medication it is important that you read through the product information leaflet for full instructions on how to correctly use an Ozempic pen. Here are some step-by-step instructions you can read for more information prior to purchasing. 

Step 1 -

You first need to attach a new needle and check your pen. You will need to make sure your pen contains clear and colourless Ozempic. If it does, you should then screw on a new needle and pull off both needle caps.

Step 2 - 

Now, you should check the flow of your pen. Every new Ozempic pen will need the flow of medication checking. To do this you need to turn the dose selector to select the flow check symbol which you can check in the patient information leaflet. Then, press and hold the dose button and repeat until a drop of medication appears.

Step 3 - 

You will then need to select your dosage. To do this, you need to turn the dose selector until the counter shows your dose. Select the dose you have been told to take. Dosages range from 0.25 mg to 1.0 mg.

Step 4 - 

You can now inject your dose. To do this, insert the needle into the arm, stomach, thighs, or hips. Then, press and hold down the dose button. After the dose counter reaches 0, hold for at least six seconds to make sure you receive the full dose.

Step 5 - 

After six seconds you can then remove the needle. Replace the outer needle as well. Carefully remove and dispose of the needle into a sharps bin. Then, put the pen cap back on.

VIDEO: How to use Ozempic pen

Where is the best place to use the Ozempic injection pen?

Much in the same way as other injectable medications, there are certain areas of the body that work best to inject. The best-recommended areas to inject Ozempic are the abdomen, the thigh, and in the upper arm. If you are concerned about where to inject your Ozempic you should consult with your doctor for further advice. Only inject Ozempic into these areas as they will provide the best results. 

What are the possible side effects of Ozempic?

As with other medications, there are some side effects that people may experience when they take Ozempic. These vary from more common side effects to some that are rarely experienced. Here are some of the most common and uncommon side effects of Ozempic:

Common Side Effects:

• Diarrhoea

• Nausea

• Low blood sugar

• Vomiting

Less Common Side Effects:

• Anaphylactic reactions

• Increased heart rate

If you begin to experience any side effects that persist or are becoming serious, contact your doctor as soon as possible to seek advice and help. 

Is Ozempic safe to use?

Yes, Ozempic is completely safe to use. Ozempic has been found as a safe and effective medication to use. There are however some precautions that some people should take. Some people who should be cautious with Ozempic include:

• People with Medullary thyroid cancer

• People with pancreatitis

• Those with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2

The following people may also be ineligible for Ozempic and may wish to consult with their doctor to find out more:

• People allergic to semaglutide

• People taking insulin

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women

• Those with an inability to drink orally

Why was Ozempic approved for weight loss treatment?

Starting life as a medication to help manage blood pressure in those with type two diabetes, Ozempic is now also used to help people to lose weight. Ozempic was approved for use as a weight loss medication as it helps to negate the risk of serious heart conditions including heart attacks, strokes, and heart-related deaths in adults with type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Ozempic is most effective for helping people to lose weight when it is taken in conjunction with a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise. 

Sources

https://eumeds.com/ozempic

https://www.ozempic.com/faqs.html

https://www.ozempic.com/why-ozempic/what-is-ozempic.html

https://www.ozempic.com/why-ozempic/how-ozempic-works.html

https://www.ozempic.com/how-to-take/ozempic-dosing.html

https://www.ozempic.com/how-to-take/side-effects.html

https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/overview/ozempic-epar-summary-public_en.pdf