Ozempic - Overview

Ozempic is a medication used as an agent to help improve glycemic control in some people with diabetes. People who might need an Ozempic prescription can use Push Health to connect with a medical provider who can prescribe the medication to a retail or delivery pharmacy or the manufacturer's pharmacy when appropriate to do so.

What Is Ozempic Used For?

Ozempic belongs to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, similar to tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound). In conjunction with diet and exercise, Ozempic is used to help improve glycemic control in adult patients with type II diabetes. Ozempic works by increasing insulin secretion and blocking glucagon secretion in the body and it may also slow down digestion and lengthen the sensation of feeling full. Ozempic is similar to dulaglutide (Trulicity), exenatide (Bydureon, Byetta), liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza) and lixisenatide (Adlyxin). Ozempic contains the active ingredient semaglutide - like Rybelsus and Wegovy.

Ozempic is being studied for other possible clinical uses. Recent studies suggest that Ozempic might reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in certain groups of patients. Other studies suggest that it may show benefit in kidney disease.

Ozempic - Dosage and Cost

Ozempic prescription medication is generally started at a lower dosing and then increased to a maintenance dose as determined by the response of the patient and the judgment of the prescribing medical provider. In many cases, Ozempic medication is started at Ozempic 0.25 mg once weekly and then increased to 0.5 mg once weekly after 4 weeks. Higher Ozempic doses might be prescribed if necessary. Ozempic medication was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017 after reviewing numerous clinical trials involving thousands of patients. In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, Ozempic medication, when compared to placebo, produced a statistically relevant reduction in HbA1c from baseline. Ozempic injection medication can be taken any time of day, with or without meals.

Ozempic medication is expensive, costing over $700 for one pen of Ozempic (0.25 mg / 0.5 mg). Ozempic prescription discount cards may be available online or through programs associated with the manufacturer. Packaged to be usable for subcutaneous injection, a typical starting dose is Ozempic 0.25 mg once per week which can be titrated up to Ozempic 1 mg weekly but the regimen ultimately depends on the patient and the judgement of the prescribing medical provider. The Ozempic pen can be injected into the thigh, upper arm or abdomen subcutaneously and can be taken during or outside of mealtimes - generally at any time of day. Ozempic medication can delay emptying of the gastric contents and, as a result, should be used carefully when taken with oral medications.

Can I Buy Ozempic Online?

Ozempic is a prescription medication in the United States and is not available over the counter (OTC). People who might need an Ozempic prescription, however, can use Push Health to connect with a medical provider who can prescribe the the medication to the patient's pharmacy when appropriate to do so.

Ozempic for Weight Loss

Some people have heard of Ozempic prescription medication being used for weight loss purposes. While Ozempic for weight loss is not currently approved by the FDA, the active ingredient in Ozempic medication is approved for this use in the medication Wegovy. Interest in Ozempic as a weight management option is related to the fact that the STEP 1 clinical trial demonstrated a mean change in body weight from baseline to week 68 of -14.9% in the semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic) group versus -2.4% with placebo. Study data released in 2022 demonstrated a 2.1% blood sugar reduction and also weight loss in adults with type 2 diabetes when using the new 2 mg dose. Based on these reported effects, Ozempic prescription medication use has soared since its approval in both the US and worldwide.

People who prefer an oral weight loss medication similar to Ozempic should learn more about Foundayo and Wegovy tablets.

Ozempic - Side Effects

Prior to using Ozempic prescription medication, it is important to discuss possible side effects with one's medical provider and pharmacist. Side effects that can result from Ozempic medication use include abdominal pain, upset stomach, constipation, nausea, gas, arthritis, vomiting and diarrhea. Reports of rapid fat loss in the facial area - the so-called "Ozempic face" resulting in sagging skin - has led to ongoing monitoring by the plastic surgeons. People with a family history of thyroid cancer or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 should not use Ozempic prescription pens. Ozempic medication can delay gastric emptying and affect the absorption of other medications when used concomitantly. Pancreatitis has been reported in clinical trials of Ozempic. Ozempic prescription medication should not be used by people with type 1 diabetes. Eye disorders such as optic neuropathy (NAION) have been reported associated with the use of the main ingredient in Ozempic medication. Ozempic and alcohol should not be used together. The Ozempic pen should not be shared between patients. People with a known hypersensitivity to Ozempic medication or similar medications should not use Ozempic prescription medication.

Ozempic - Foods to Avoid

Ozempic prescription medication should be used in conjunction with lifestyle and dietary changes. Foods to avoid when using the medication generally include greasy and fried foods, alcohol and foods high in sugar. Avoidance of these general categories of food tend to reduce the incidence of side effects in some people. People using the medication should consult their medical provider for exact dietary recommendations.

How to Get Ozempic with Push Health

1. Complete a brief health intake. Answer some questions about your medical history, current medications, weight and height. Include any personal or family history of thyroid cancer or pancreatitis.
2. Connect with a licensed medical provider. A medical provider will review your information and evaluate whether Ozempic or another medication might be appropriate for your situation. Same-day consultations are available.
3. Receive your prescription. If Ozempic is appropriate for you, your medical provider will send a prescription to a pharmacy of your choice - no office visit required.
4. Pick up your Ozempic pen. Ozempic is available at most major retail pharmacies and through the manufacturer. The manufacturer's savings program may reduce costs for eligible commercially insured patients. Follow up with your medical provider if you experience any side effects.

No health insurance or subscription is required. Medical providers are available now.

More Ozempic Information

• Ozempic - FDA