Ozempic side effects and what to expect

What Is Ozempic?

Ozempic is a prescription medicine used in New Zealand to help manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It contains the active ingredient semaglutide and is taken as a once-weekly injection.

Semaglutide is a type of medicine known as a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It mimics the action of a hormone your body naturally produces to help control blood glucose levels.

How Common Are Ozempic Side Effects?

As with any prescription medicine, side effects are possible, although not everyone will experience them. Some side effects are more common when starting treatment or when the dose is increased.

Many side effects are related to the digestive system. These effects often settle as treatment continues and your body adjusts to the medicine. But some side effects can be more serious, and medical attention may be needed. It is important to be aware of the possible risks and to speak with your healthcare provider if you have concerns.

Common Side Effects of Ozempic

Some side effects are more common than others, especially when you first start Ozempic or when your dose is increased. These are generally related to how the medicine affects digestion and usually lessen as your body adapts to treatment.

Digestive Symptoms

The most commonly reported side effects involve the stomach and digestive system. These may include:

For many people, these symptoms are mild and settle over time. However, repeated vomiting, ongoing diarrhoea, or strong stomach pain should not be ignored and should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

• Nausea (particularly in the early weeks of treatment)
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Stomach discomfort or cramping
• Bloating, gas, or burping

Headache, Tiredness and Dizziness

Some people may experience:

These symptoms are usually mild and may be linked to changes in blood sugar levels, hydration, or appetite as the body adapts to the medicine.

• Headaches
• Feeling unusually tired (fatigue)
• Light-headedness or dizziness

Changes in Taste

A small number of people notice that food tastes different while using Ozempic. Certain foods may seem less appealing than usual. If this continues or begins to affect how much you are eating, speak with your healthcare provider.

When Should I Speak to My Healthcare Provider?

You should speak with your healthcare provider if side effects are persistent, worsening, or interfering with your daily activities.

This includes ongoing nausea, repeated vomiting, continued diarrhoea, troublesome constipation, frequent headaches, or unexplained tiredness. Any changes in your usual blood sugar readings should also be discussed.

If you are unsure whether a symptom is related to Ozempic, it is best to check with your healthcare provider who can assess your symptoms and decide whether any changes are needed.

Less Common but Serious Side Effects

Although uncommon, some side effects of Ozempic can be serious.

Inflammation of the Pancreas (Pancreatitis)

In rare cases, Ozempic has been associated with inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms may include severe and ongoing stomach pain that can spread to the back, sometimes accompanied by nausea or vomiting. This pain is often intense and may feel different from usual digestive discomfort.

Gallbladder Problems

Gallbladder issues, including gallstones, have been reported during treatment. Signs can include pain around the stomach, fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes (known as jaundice), or persistent nausea.

Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycaemia)

Ozempic alone does not usually cause low blood sugar, but the risk may increase when it is used together with insulin or certain other diabetes medicines. Low blood sugar may cause shakiness, sweating, dizziness, confusion, or feeling faint.

Serious Allergic Reactions

Severe allergic reactions are rare but possible. The usual symptoms include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, problems breathing or swallowing, or a fast heartbeat.

Seek urgent medical care if you notice any of the serious symptoms described above.

Can Ozempic Side Effects Be Minimized?

Some side effects are more noticeable when starting Ozempic or when the dose is increased. Beginning at a lower dose and increasing gradually helps reduce the likelihood of digestive symptoms while your body adjusts to the medicine.

Using Ozempic exactly as prescribed and attending regular check-ups can also help ensure that you’re treatment is right for you. If side effects become troublesome, your healthcare provider may review your dose or overall treatment plan.

You should not change your dose or stop treatment without medical advice.

What This Means for You

Ozempic can be an effective part of managing type 2 diabetes, but like all medicines, it may cause side effects. Knowing what is common, what is less common, and when to seek advice can help you feel more confident during treatment. If you have any concerns about symptoms while using Ozempic, speak with your healthcare provider.

Important safety information

Prescription medicine. Ozempic® is approved in New Zealand for the treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes to improve blood glucose control. Ozempic® contains the active ingredient semaglutide and is available as a solution for injection in a pre-filled pen (4 mg/3 mL; semaglutide 1.34 mg/mL). Ozempic® has risks and benefits. Ask your healthcare provider if Ozempic® is right for you. Use strictly as directed. If you experience side effects, see your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare professional. For more information, see the Consumer Medicine Information (semaglutide) available at: https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/consumers/cmi/w/wegovy.pdf