What is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a prescription injectable medication whose active ingredient is semaglutide. It belongs to the group of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists. Drugs in this group mimic the effect of the naturally secreted hormone GLP-1 in the gut. Ozempic is not insulin, but its effect helps the body regulate blood glucose levels more effectively. Due to the long action of semaglutide, the medication is taken only once a week.
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The European Medicines Agency (EMA) states that Ozempic is used together with appropriate diet and physical activity to treat type 2 diabetes in adults when the disease is not adequately controlled. It can be prescribed alone if the patient cannot take metformin, or together with other diabetes medications.
How does Ozempic work?
Semaglutide acts on GLP-1 receptors. When blood glucose levels rise, it stimulates the pancreas to release more insulin. This helps better control blood sugar levels.
Semaglutide can also slow gastric emptying, affect appetite-regulating mechanisms, reduce feelings of hunger, and increase satiety. As a result, a person often feels full faster and naturally eats less. Due to these effects, some people taking Ozempic experience reduced food intake and body weight. Clinical studies have shown that treating type 2 diabetes with Ozempic not only lowers blood glucose levels but is also associated with weight loss.
It is important to understand that the effect and its intensity may vary among different people. Treatment results are evaluated by a doctor, taking into account glucose control, other medications used, comorbidities, and possible side effects.
