Ozempic
Semaglutide · Novo Nordisk
FDA Approved: December 5, 2017
Brand Price
$800-$1,200/month
Compounded
$199-$399/month
Insurance
Usually covered for Type 2 diabetes
Type
Weekly Injection
About Ozempic
Ozempic (semaglutide) is FDA-approved for Type 2 diabetes management but is widely used off-label for weight loss. It works similarly to Wegovy but at lower doses.
Ozempic mimics GLP-1, reducing appetite, slowing digestion, and improving blood sugar control. It increases insulin production and decreases glucagon secretion.
Effectiveness: For diabetes: Reduces A1C by 1.5-2.0%. For weight loss (off-label): Users typically lose 10-15% of body weight over 6-12 months.
Dosage & Administration
Starting Dose
0.25 mg once weekly
Maintenance Dose
0.5-1.0 mg once weekly
Maximum Dose
2.0 mg once weekly
Frequency
Weekly injection
Side Effects
Common Side Effects (Common (≥5%))
- •Nausea (20%)
- •Vomiting (9%)
- •Diarrhea (9%)
- •Abdominal pain (7%)
- •Constipation (5%)
- •Fatigue (5%)
Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these:
- Pancreatitis
- Gallbladder problems
- Kidney problems
- Severe allergic reactions
- Diabetic retinopathy complications
Who Should Not Take Ozempic
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- Severe gastrointestinal disease
- Type 1 diabetes
Current Shortage Status
Limited Supply
High demand for off-label weight loss use
Alternatives: Consider compounded semaglutide or other GLP-1 medications. Use our Alternatives Hub to compare options.
Pricing & Cost
Brand Name Price
$800-$1,200/month
Without insurance or savings card. Actual price varies by pharmacy and location.
Compounded Alternative
$199-$399/month
Compounded semaglutide from licensed pharmacies. Often HSA/FSA eligible.
With Insurance
$0-$350/month
Cost depends on your plan. Prior authorization may be required.
Insurance Coverage
Drug Interactions
Important: Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements.
- Insulin: May increase risk of hypoglycemia. Monitor blood sugar closely.
- Sulfonylureas: May increase risk of hypoglycemia. Dose reduction may be needed.
- Warfarin: Monitor INR more frequently.
- Oral contraceptives: May reduce effectiveness. Use additional contraception.
Important Warnings
- Do not use if you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
- Stop taking Ozempic and seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, or kidney problems.
- Pregnant women should not use Ozempic. Use effective contraception while taking this medication.
Storage & Administration
Storage Instructions
Store Ozempic pens in the refrigerator (36°F to 46°F) before first use. After first use, store at room temperature (up to 86°F) or in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Discard after 56 days.
How to Administer
Inject Ozempic subcutaneously (under the skin) in your stomach, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate injection sites. Use a new needle for each injection.
What to Monitor
Monitor blood sugar levels regularly, especially if taking insulin or other diabetes medications. Watch for signs of pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and allergic reactions.
Alternatives to Ozempic
If Ozempic is not available, too expensive, or not covered by your insurance, consider these alternatives: