Ozempic is a brand-name prescription medication containing the active ingredient semaglutide. It is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It is manufactured by Novo Nordisk, a Danish pharmaceutical company. Ozempic is administered via a once-weekly subcutaneous injection using a prefilled pen.
Ozempic is approved for use in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus to improve blood sugar control, along with diet and exercise. It is also approved to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, or death in adults with both type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, Ozempic is proven to lower the risk of worsening kidney disease, kidney failure, and cardiovascular death in adults with both type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, is also used in other medications like Wegovy and Rybelsus. While Ozempic is designed for treating type 2 diabetes, it may be prescribed off-label for weight loss. Ozempic works by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone, stimulating insulin release when blood glucose is high, reducing glucagon secretion, slowing digestion, and suppressing appetite.
The cost of Ozempic can vary depending on insurance coverage, dosage, and pharmacy. Without insurance, the cost can range from approximately $349 per month for lower doses to $499 for the 2mg dose. The list price is around $997.58 per pen. However, discounts and savings programs may be available. While the FDA lists all Ozempic doses as available, shortages have occurred in the past. If Ozempic is unavailable at a local pharmacy, other pharmacies or telehealth services can be considered.