Semaglutide and Ozempic refer to the same compound. Semaglutide is the generic name of the active ingredient, while Ozempic is a brand name used by Novo Nordisk for their pharmaceutical product containing semaglutide.
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. Key points about semaglutide:
- Semaglutide mimics the effects of GLP-1, an incretin hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels
- It stimulates the release of insulin when blood sugar levels are high
- It suppresses the release of glucagon when blood sugar levels are low
- This helps to lower blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes
- Semaglutide also delays gastric emptying and promotes feelings of fullness, which aids in weight loss
Some key benefits of semaglutide:
- Significantly lowers HbA1c levels (a marker of long-term blood sugar levels)
- Does not increase risk of hypoglycemia when used alone
- Promotes weight loss of ~5-15% in patients with obesity
Ozempic® is the brand name under which Novo Nordisk markets semaglutide as an injection for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management.
- Ozempic® was first approved by the FDA in 2017 for glycemic control in type 2 diabetes
- In 2021, it was also approved for chronic weight management
So in summary - Ozempic and semaglutide refer to the same compound. Semaglutide is the generic name while Ozempic is a single branded formulation.
Ozempic® is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection. It is available in the following doses:
The dose can be increased over time to improve efficacy. When used for diabetes, the maintenance dose is usually 0.5-1 mg per week. When used primarily for weight loss in patients with obesity, the dose can be increased to 2 mg per week.
Side effects of semaglutide may include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
These side effects are usually mild-moderate and improve with time.
If you are struggling to lose weight or keep blood sugars under control with diet, exercise, and other medications, consider asking your doctor about semaglutide.
An endocrinology clinic like
Renewal Hormone Center specializes in using cutting-edge medications like Ozempic/semaglutide for optimal management of diabetes and obesity. Our experts will properly evaluate if you are an appropriate candidate and provide structured follow-up to help you meet your glycemic and weight loss goals.