Semaglutide An Anti-Diabetic agent
Semaglutide has emerged as a revolutionary pharmaceutical agent in the realms of weight management and diabetes intervention. It is used to manage blood glucose levels in type 2 Diabetes, lowers the risk of cardiac diseases and its efficacy in promoting weight loss has catapulted it into the spotlight, offering hope to many people struggling with obesity and metabolic disorders.
Mechanism of Action
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It reduces/ controls blood glucose levels by increasing the production of Insuline & decrease the amount of sugar made by Liver alongwith diet and exercise.In other words it acts by mimicking the natural hormone that controls appetite and blood sugar. The slowing of gastric emptying combined with enhanced feeling of fullness leads to lowering of blood glucose and significantly reduced calorie intake, causing significant weight loss.
USES
Treatment of type 2 diabetes
Reduces the cardic events
Management of weight loss
Clinical trials show major benefits through this treatment. On average, Semaglutide-treated patients experience weight loss to levels of more than 15%. The improvement rates are indeed way beyond other alternatives for therapy. It helps decrease HbA1c values, ensuring greater control in blood glucose concentration, thus potentially reducing the chances for complications as regards diabetes itself.
Adverse Effects
Common Side Effects; patients may experience Headache, Dizziness, Heartburn, Nausea, Vomiting, Stomach disturbance or pain, Anorexia, Diarrhoea, constipation etc
Serious Side Effects; these effects may cause kidney problems, inflamation of pancreas, hypoglycemia, vision problems in type 2 diabetics, serious allergic reactions, during anesthesia or deep sedation food or liquid may enter in the lungs .
In case of anxiety (fast heartbeats), shortness of breathe, swelling of tongue, lips or face immediately contact your doctor.
Similarly if there are sign of lump at neck, a hoarse voice or thyroid tumour or famiy history of tumor, hold medicine & consult doctor.
Precautions
Do not use semaglutide if allergic to it, or have any of the following complication
kidney problems
Inflamation of pancreas (Pancreatitis)
Having Thyroid Cancer or family history
Vision problems due to diabetes like Retinopathy
Type 1 diabetic patient or under age of 18 years.
Do not share an injection pen, even if the needle is replaced. It may lead to infection or disease transfer.
Dosage form & Dose
It is available in oral tablet form (Rybelsus) and parenteral route (Ozempic & Wegovy) as subcutaneous injection.
Ozempic 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg & 2mg dose pens are available and used on weekly basis.
Wegovy 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg and 2.4 mg dose pens are availableand used on weekly basis.
Rybelsus 3mg , 7mg & 14mg tablets are available and used on daily basis.
How to take semaglutide?
When used orally (Rybelsus) take once a day at least 30 minutes before meal or other oral medications with approximately 4 ounces of plain water . After 30 minutes of tablet intake take meal or other oral medicines.
Storage
Store tablets at room temperature in the original packing. Keep away from moisture and heat and children access. Do not use if freezed.
Store unopened injection pens in the packing in a refrigerator not freezer.
Do not use after expiry.
Method and Technique of Semaglutide Injection Administration: Step by Step
Administering semaglutide, whether for weight management (Wegovy) or type 2 diabetes (Ozempic), involves precise steps to ensure safety and efficacy. It is typically delivered via a pre-filled pen for subcutaneous injection. Here’s a detailed guide:
Read Instructions: Review the instructions provided with your medication to understand the specifics of the device.
Choose Injection Site: Common sites include the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate injection sites with each dose to avoid irritation.
Wash Hands: Clean your hands thoroughly to maintain hygiene.
Inspect the Medication: Check the pen to ensure the solution is clear and colorless. Do not use it if the solution is cloudy or contains particles.
Clean the Injection Site: Use an alcohol swab to sanitize the chosen area. Allow it to dry.
Select the Dose: Turn the dial on the pen to the prescribed dose (e.g., 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, or higher).
Insert the Needle: Pinch the skin gently and insert the needle at a 90-degree angle. For thin individuals, a 45-degree angle may be used.
Inject the Medication: Press the injection button fully until the dose counter returns to “0.” Hold the pen in place for about 6 seconds to ensure all medication is delivered.
Post-Injection
Remove the Needle: Detach the needle and dispose of it in a sharps container.
Store the Pen: Replace the pen cap and store it in the refrigerator or as directed, ensuring it is not frozen.
By following these steps, patients can administer semaglutide safely and effectively, achieving optimal results while minimizing risks. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.