Diabetes is a condition that is characterized by the high levels of blood sugar. Commonly referred to as diabetes mellitus, it is a group of metabolic diseases that trigger the production of unhealthy blood glucose levels. Blood sugar is essential for the maintenance of energy levels in the body; however, an excess of the same is not favorable for the body. The long-term disease may be triggered due to the inadequate production of insulin or the abnormal response of the body’s cells to the insulin. In some cases, there may be an inadequacy in both the functions. The prolonged presence of glucose in the bloodstream can lead to unhealthy conditions that transcend beyond diabetes.

A huge population in the world suffers from type 2 diabetes. Most people may be able to effectively control the symptoms of the condition by undertaking measure like losing weight, following a healthy diet, making exercise a part of the daily routine, and regularly monitoring the blood sugar levels. However, type 2 diabetes is progressive in nature, and the condition gets much worse over time. Hence, a patient may have to take the aid of medication and treatment. In the case of medicines being tried without success, the doctor will prescribe the injection of a medicine known as Ozempic®. A glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, Ozempic® is available in the form of an injection. The glucagon hormone aids in regulating the blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin secretion and lowering the glucagon hormone secretion. For diabetes patients, the glucagone hormone works in controlling the blood sugar levels, alters the insulin and glucagon levels, and helps in proper digestion. However, type 1 diabetes patient cannot use this medicine.

Ozempic® comes in an injection pen which must be prefilled to inject the solution into the body of the patient. Below is some information to help you use and store Ozempic® in a proper manner.

The right way to use Ozempic®

• The Ozempic® injection pen must be used as per the instructions or the prescription of the doctor. The doctor may regularly have the dosage altered to fit the changes in the insulin levels or as per the way in which the body reacts.
• A patient or the person administering the injection shot must duly follow the directions on the prescription label. The patient information, guide of medication, and the instruction sheet must be well-evaluated before using the injection pen. In case of any queries, it is essential to ask the doctor or the pharmacist for additional information.
• The injection is given under the skin of the patient. It is recommended that the medicine is injected by an individual who understands the right way to administer the injection. One must inject Ozempic® in different parts of the body.
• The medicine must never be used in less or more levels. Additionally, Ozempic® must never be taken in for longer than recommended by the doctor.
• If the medicine appears to have a changed color, it must be discarded right away without further use.

Storage of Ozempic®

• A packed or new kit of Ozempic® must be stored in the refrigerator before it is used. The temperature of the refrigerator should be anywhere between 36ºF to 46ºF. One must never freeze the medicine or inject the same when it is in the frozen state.
• Upon usage, the injection pen can be stored for about 50-56 days at room temperature. One can also keep the Ozempic® pen in a refrigerator but refrain from freezing the same. The pen must be covered with a cap at all times when it is not in use. It is important to ensure that it is stored away from the direct rays of the sun or in excessive heat.
• Post usage, the needle on the injection pen must be safely removed and discarded away. The needle must be dumped away from the reach of children. It must be removed from the injection pen before storing it. Using a new needle before every session of injecting the medicine is imperative.

Pivotal information for the patients

• A patient must always report any symptoms that may be followed post the injection of Ozempic®. Signs related to thyroid tumors, such as hoarseness in the voice, lump in the neck, and dysphagia must be looked out for.
• The use of Ozempic® can put one at the risk of pancreatitis. Thus, in the case of the suspicion of pancreatitis, the patient must discontinue the use of the medicine and promptly contact his/her physician.
• Ozempic® can bring potential risk to pregnant women and their fetus. Thus, women who are pregnant and or intend to get pregnant soon must be cautious. It is essential to inform the physician to prevent any given risk.
• A patient will experience nausea, diarrhea, and constipation during the first few times of using Ozempic®. However, these side effects are common at the beginning. For most patients, the side effects will reduce over a period.