The prevalence of type 2 diabetes has been steadily increasing in recent years, especially among adults. This is partly due to the obesity epidemic and the sedentary lifestyles that come with it. Ozempic (pegaglumac beta) is a new drug that was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use as an add-on treatment for adults with type 2 diabetes who have inadequate glycemic control despite standard therapies. The latest research reveals that this drug may be an effective treatment option for those living with T2D or pre-diabetes.
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic (pegaglumac beta) is a prescribed drug used as an add-on treatment for adults with type 2 diabetes who have inadequate glycemic control despite standard therapies. It is used to treat adults with T2D who are not adequately controlled with metformin, a sulfonylurea (such as glyburide), or a DPP-4 inhibitor (such as sitagliptin, linagliptin, or saxagliptin). This drug is manufactured by AstraZeneca and is the first of a new kind of diabetes treatment called a “GLP-1 receptor agonist”.
How does Ozempic Work?
Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that works by stimulating insulin release from the beta cells in the pancreas. This is achieved by inhibiting the breakdown of GLP-1, a hormone that slows the rate at which food is released from the stomach, and increases the amount of insulin released. Insulin is essential for the normal metabolism and health of cells, especially those in the liver, muscles, and fat tissue.
When there is a deficiency or reduced insulin production, blood sugar levels rise, which can result in hyperglycemia and subsequently, T2D. When Ozempic is taken, it is broken down into two parts. The first part travels through the bloodstream and latches onto the GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas. It then releases the second part (pegaglumac), which causes an increase in insulin production from the beta cells in the pancreas. This is why it’s considered an “agonist” as it stimulates more insulin release.
How to Use Ozempic?
Ozempic is taken once daily with a meal. The most common dosage is 2 mg once a day, but your doctor may prescribe a different dose depending on your personal health. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible, and then continue with your normal dosing schedule. Do not take an extra dose to make up for a missed dose.
The most common side effects of Ozempic include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, headache, cough, upper respiratory tract infection, and dizziness. Other potential side effects include things like allergic reactions, swelling of the extremities, joint pain, joint stiffness, dry mouth, blurred vision, insomnia, and decreased urination. If you experience any of these or any other side effects, make sure to contact your healthcare provider.
What is the Future for Ozempic and T2D Research?
The latest research indicates that Ozempic may be effective for both preventing and managing T2D. The FDA has approved it for use as an add-on treatment for adults with T2D who have inadequate glycemic control despite standard therapies. This may include oral antidiabetic medications, insulin, or a GLP-1 receptor agonist (such as Ozempic).
The most recent research shows that Ozempic can be used as both a preventative treatment and a treatment for those who already have T2D. It can be used as a preventative treatment by those who are at risk of developing T2D, such as overweight individuals, those with a family history of T2D, or those who have impaired glucose tolerance (IFG).
Final Words: Should You Try Ozempic for T2D Treatment?
Ozempic may be a suitable option for those living with T2D who are not adequately controlled with metformin, a sulfonylurea (such as glyburide), or a DPP-4 inhibitor (such as sitagliptin, linagliptin, or saxagliptin). If you have tried several diabetes medications and are still struggling with T2D, Ozempic may be a good choice since it targets a different aspect of the disease.
Other diabetes medications may not be controlling your blood sugar as effectively as they should, which can lead to serious complications, such as kidney damage. If you are experiencing these or other symptoms of T2D, talk with your doctor about Ozempic, as well as other treatment options.