Ozempic (Semaglutide)
Comprehensive Guide to Ozempic.
Benefits
Ozempic is a once-weekly injectable prescription medicine that may improve blood sugar (glucose) levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It also contributes to weight loss and reduces the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, or death in adults with type 2 diabetes with known heart disease.
What is Ozempic (Semaglutide)
Ozempic contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It is prescribed to help control blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes, when combined with diet and exercise. Additionally, Ozempic can reduce the risk of significant cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes who also have heart disease.
In Malaysia, the product registration numbers for Ozempic weekly doses are MAL20026057AZ for 0.25 mg and 0.5 mg, and MAL20026058AZ for 1 mg.
What is Semaglutide
Semaglutide is the active ingredient in Ozempic. It is a human glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist1 that has a strong affinity for the GLP-1 receptor, a receptor that helps regulate glucose metabolism.
1. A GLP-1 receptor agonist is a special key that helps to activate the receptors in our body, producing similar effects to the GLP-1 hormone itself.
How does it work
Semaglutide works by mimicking the function of the GLP-1 hormone. This hormone is released into the bloodstream from the intestines after a meal, and it stimulates the secretion of insulin while suppressing the release of glucagon, both of which help to regulate blood sugar levels.
The stomach is responsible for breaking down food and emptying it into the small intestine. Semaglutide affects GLP-1 receptors in the stomach, slowing down gastric emptying. This means that food stays in the stomach for a longer time, leading to a feeling of fullness and reduced appetite. Slower gastric emptying also helps to prevent rapid rises in blood sugar levels after meals.
The pancreas produces insulin and glucagon, two hormones involved in blood sugar regulation. Semaglutide stimulates GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas, promoting the production of insulin and suppressing the release of glucagon. This dual effect helps to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes who may have insulin resistance and reduced insulin production.
The liver plays a crucial role in regulating glucose production. Semaglutide’s impact on GLP-1 receptors in the liver helps reduce excessive glucose production, leading to better blood sugar control. By moderating glucose production, semaglutide contributes to maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
Who is a good candidate
Ozempic is suitable for adults with type 2 diabetes who are inadequately controlled on diet and exercise alone or in combination with one or more other antidiabetic medicines.
To find out if Ozempic might be right for you, try our quick suitability tool below.
Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The results are based on general guidelines and should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and personalised recommendations.
Side effects
Like all medications, Ozempic can cause side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite. However, not everyone will experience these and they are often temporary, improving over time.
If you experience side effects, it’s important to discuss them with your doctor. They can provide advice on how to manage these side effects, which may include adjusting the dose of Ozempic or suggesting other ways to alleviate symptoms.
Contra-indications
Ozempic should not be used in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2. It is also not recommended for patients with a history of diabetic retinopathy.
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Results
Clinical studies have shown that the treatment results in a significant reduction in HbA1c (a measure of blood sugar control) compared to placebo.
This study has found that the treatment resulted in a significantly greater reduction in body weight than placebo. The mean change in body weight from baseline to week 68 was -15% in the treatment group and -2.4% in the placebo group.
FAQ
Ozempic is primarily prescribed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is designed to improve blood sugar (glucose) control in adults with this condition. While weight loss can be a side effect of taking Ozempic, it's important to note that it is not approved as a weight-loss medication for individuals without type 2 diabetes.
Ozempic is not a substitute for a healthy diet and regular exercise. These lifestyle modifications are crucial components of managing type 2 diabetes. Ozempic is most effective when used in combination with a balanced diet and regular physical activity. A common piece of feedback we often receive from our patients is that Ozempic makes adhering to a balanced diet and regular physical activity easier.
The cost of Ozempic can vary depending on your dosage. Generally, it can cost between RM800 to RM1,000 per month of usage.
It's important to discuss your full medical history with your doctor before starting Ozempic.
Ozempic involves a once-weekly subcutaneous injection. It can be taken at any time of the day, with or without meals. However, it should be taken on the same day each week.
Achieving your weight goals is possible with consistent adherence to prescribed treatment, mindful eating, and regular exercise.
Calculator
BMI & Body Fat Percentage Calculator
| BMI | Underweight | Normal | Overweight | Class I Obese | Class II | Class III |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classification For Asians | < 18.5 | 18.5 - 22.9 | 23 - 27.4 | 27.5 - 32.4 | 32.5 - 37.4 | > 37.5 |
| Gender | Underweight | Normal | Overweight | Obese |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male | < 15% | 15-25% | 26-30% | > 30% |
| Female | < 20% | 20-30% | 31-35% | > 35% |
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Interested in More Options?
Explore our comprehensive guide to weight loss medications available in Malaysia. Discover different treatments, their benefits, and how they might help you achieve your health and wellness goals.
1.The Percentage calculator is based on the Deurenberg formula. It’s meant for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.
2.The table provided is based on the categorisations outlined in significant studies on Asian adults’ body composition and health risks, including a comprehensive review of the literature and a meta-analysis on the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Asian adults in the Asia-Pacific region.Lee, S. H., Kim, J. Y., Bang, H., Choi, J., Lee, H., Shin, C., & Yoon, S. S. (2017). Body Composition and Health Risks in Asian Adults: A Review of the Literature. Obesity Reviews, 18(11), 1319-1331. (2020). Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity among Asian Adults in Asia-Pacific: A Meta-Analysis. Obesity Reviews, 21(2), e12803.
