Warning: Risk of Thyroid C-Cell Tumors
In studies with mice and rats, semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic) caused thyroid tumors, including thyroid cancer. It is not known if Ozempic will cause thyroid tumors or a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) in people. Notify your healthcare provider if you develop a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath, as these may be symptoms of thyroid cancer.
FDA-Approved Use of Ozempic
Ozempic is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist used:
- With diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
- To reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and established cardiovascular disease.
Limitations of Use
- Ozempic has not been studied in patients with a history of pancreatitis.
- It is not for the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus.
- Your healthcare provider may recommend Ozempic for chronic weight management (obesity or overweight).
Who Should Not Use Ozempic?
Do not use Ozempic if:
- You or any of your family have ever had a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or if you have an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
- You have a known allergic reaction to semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic).
How Should Ozempic be Administered?
Ozempic can be taken with or without food. The pre-filled injector pen is self-administered as a subcutaneous injection in the stomach, thigh, or upper arm once a week on the same day every week. Your healthcare provider will guide you on a treatment regimen that may include an increase in dose every four weeks. Do not change your dosing regimen or stop taking Ozempic as prescribed without consulting your provider first.
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Using Ozempic?
Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal and dietary supplements. Some medications to watch out for include:
- Medications used to treat type 1 or type 2 diabetes, including insulin or sulfonylureas.
- Ozempic causes a delay in gastric emptying so it has the potential to impact the absorption of orally administered medications.
- Other GLP-1 medications, including Wegovy, Saxenda, Victoza, Byetta, or Bydureon.
- Other products for weight loss, including dietary supplements.
Most Serious Side Effects of Ozempic
- Thyroid C-Cell Tumors
- Inflammation of Pancreas (Acute Pancreatitis)
- Diabetic Retinopathy Complications in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
- Never Share a Pen
- Low Blood Sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Acute Kidney Injury
- Serious Allergic Reactions
- Acute Gallbladder Disease
- Increase in Heart Rate
- Suicidal Behavior and Ideation
Most Common Side Effects of Ozempic
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription products: Contact Novo Nordisk Inc. at 1-833-934-6891 or contact FDA MedWatch at 1-800-FDA-1088 or visit www.fda.gov/medwatch. This information is not comprehensive. Please see the full Prescribing Information for complete safety information.