Ozempic (semaglutide) is commonly prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes and is increasingly recognised for its effectiveness in supporting weight loss. As a prescription medication, it’s crucial to understand how to inject Ozempic properly to maximise its benefits and minimise the risk of side effects.
This article outlines the steps for injecting Ozempic, tips for beginners, and guidance on storing the medication, ensuring you feel confident and informed about your treatment.
What is Ozempic
Ozempic is a medication that mimics a naturally occurring hormone in the body called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). This hormone plays a role in increasing the production of insulin when the sugar level of the blood is high and thus assists in lowering blood sugar levels. It also helps in slowing down the movement of food through the stomach which can result in feelings of richness and poor appetite.
How does Ozempic work
Type 2 disease is essentially controlled by Ozempic. Ozempic has also gained popularity in weight loss, especially for fat persons or obese with specific health conditions. Ozempic is taken once a week. It is injected usually in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
Steps of Injecting Ozempic
At first, injecting Ozempic may seem daunting, but it’s an easy process with proper preparation and understanding. Here is step-by-step guidance for injecting Ozempic once a week:
1. Prepare the supplies
Make sure you have all the mandatory supplies before you start. The supplies are:
- Ozempic pen: Ozempic pen that is already filled and carries the medication.
- Alcohol Swab: To sterilize the injection place.
- Cotton ball or Dressing: A cotton ball or dressing can be used to apply pressure after the injection if needed.
- Needles: Ozempic pens come with available needles that you will need to attach.
- Sharps disposal container: For safely throwing away used needles and pens.
2. Choose the injection Spot
Ozempic can be injected into the body in three areas which are as follows:
- Abdomen: Choose a location at least 2.5 cm (1 inch) away from the belly button to inject the Ozempic.
- Thigh: The outer part of the thigh is a common area for self-injection.
- Upper arm: The upper arm is a good option if someone is helping you with the injection.
Always revolve around the injection site each week to avoid displeasure. Do not inject into the areas where your skin is annoying, injured, or red.
3. Clean the injection spot
Use an alcohol swab and clean the part of the skin where the medication is injected. Allow the skin to dry for a few seconds to avoid annoyance from alcohol.
4. Fix the needle to the pen
You will need to attach a new needle if the Ozempic pen doesn’t already have one. Detach the shielding cap from the needle before fixing it. Before use, always check the needle for any harm.
5. Set the right dose
Once the needle is fixed, rotate the dose selector to the correct dose on the pen. The doctor will inform you about the required dose, normally 0.5 mg, 0.25 mg, or 1 mg. It depends on the idea of the treatment. By examining the display window, double-check the dose.
6. Remove air bubbles
It is crucial to check any air bubbles in the pen before injecting Ozempic. For removing bubbles:
- Place the pen upward.
- For moving air bubbles to the peak, tap the pen softly.
- Press the injection button until you see a drop of Ozempic at the peak of the needle to make sure the pen is ready for injection.
7. Inject the medication
Now you’re ready. Grip the pen at the right angle to the skin. Now insert the needle. Press down the injection button and grasp it around for 6 seconds making sure the dose is delivered fully.
8. Detach the needle and apply pressure
Softly remove the needle from the skin after completing the injection. With the help of a cotton ball or dressing, apply pressure to the place but do not rub down the area. This will assist in reducing any bleeding or damage.
9. Discard the needle and pen
Dispose of the needle and pen in a safe disposal container. Never fall the used needle into regular rubbish because this causes a health risk. Make sure to follow the local instructions for secure disposal.
10. Reserve the Ozempic pen
Before using the Ozempic pen, store it in the refrigerator at 2-8°C. After starting using the pen, it can be retained at room temperature (up to 30°C) for 4 weeks. Always look over the expiration date and throw out any expired pens.
Tips for an easy injection experience
Here are some guidelines for a smoother injection experience:
- Rotate the injection place: Rotate the injection place each week to avoid irritation of skin or damage.
- Relax: Take a few deep breaths before injecting Ozempic if you’re feeling anxious. Stress can make the procedure uncomfortable.
- Examine the expiry date: Before using the Ozempic pen always inspect the expiry date. Because the expired medication may not work accurately.
- Be consistent: The Ozempic pen is more operative when taken routinely. Try to inject the Ozempic on the same day each week for better outcomes.
Usual Side effects and how to manage
Ozempic pen can also cause complications like all other medications. Some common side effects are:
- Stomach pain: Some people may feel inflated or abdominal pain. This can usually be controlled with over-the-counter treatments. But if it is continued, consult the doctor.
- Nausea: Nausea is the most common side effect especially when you first start taking Ozempic. It usually lessens after a few weeks. To control nausea, try to inject Ozempic with food and drink a lot of water.
- Diarrhea or constipation: Some individuals may feel changes in their bowel movements. Talk to the healthcare provider if these symptoms carry on.
Look for medical attention instantly if you experience serious side effects such as swelling of the face, difficulty in breathing, or symptoms of pancreatitis (extreme stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting).
Conclusion
In summary, injecting Ozempic can be intimidating at first, but with practice, it becomes a simple and routine procedure. You can successfully control the treatment by following the steps of injecting Ozempic, making sure of the proper storage, and alternating the injection site. Ask for advice from the healthcare provider if you have any questions or worries about Ozempic injection. Ozempic can help manage blood sugar levels when used correctly and with the right technique. Furthermore, it also helps in weight management, giving a better overall health and comfort.
