Semaglutide: A Smart Step Toward Better Health

Semaglutide – Patient Information Guide

What is Semaglutide?

• Semaglutide is a medication used to:

  • Control type 2 diabetes

  • Support weight loss in overweight or obese individuals

  • Reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death in high-risk patients

• It belongs to a class of medicines called GLP-1 receptor agonists

• Common brand names include:

  • Ozempic® (diabetes)

  • Wegovy® (weight loss)

  • Rybelsus® (oral tablet form)

How Does Semaglutide Work?

• Mimics a natural gut hormone (GLP-1) that:

  • Increases insulin release when blood sugar is high

  • Reduces excess sugar release from the liver

  • Slows stomach emptying, helping you feel full longer

  • Reduces appetite and food cravings

• Helps with blood sugar control, weight reduction, and heart protection

Who Can Benefit from Semaglutide?

• Adults with type 2 diabetes

• People who are:

  • Overweight or obese (BMI ≥27 kg/m² with risk factors)

  • Obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m²)

• Patients with diabetes or obesity who have:

  • Heart disease

  • High blood pressure

  • High cholesterol

How Is Semaglutide Taken?

• Usually given as a once-weekly injection under the skin:

  • Abdomen, thigh, or upper arm

• Oral tablet (Rybelsus®) is taken:

  • Once daily on an empty stomach with a small amount of water

• Dose is started low and gradually increased to reduce side effects

• Take on the same day each week (for injections)

Benefits You May Notice

• Better blood sugar control

• Gradual and sustained weight loss

• Reduced appetite and portion sizes

• Improved energy and metabolic health

• Long-term reduction in cardiovascular risk

Common Side Effects

(Most are mild and improve with time)

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea or constipation

• Stomach fullness or bloating

• Reduced appetite

Less Common but Important Side Effects

• Dehydration (due to vomiting or diarrhea)

• Low blood sugar (mainly if combined with insulin or sulfonylureas)

• Gallstones (with rapid weight loss)

• Pancreatitis (severe abdominal pain – seek medical help)

Who Should NOT Use Semaglutide?

• People with:

  • Personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer

  • Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN-2)

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding

• Severe gastrointestinal disorders (use with caution)

Important Safety Advice

• Eat smaller, slower meals to reduce nausea

• Stay well hydrated

• Do not stop the medication abruptly without medical advice

• Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking

• Regular follow-up is important to adjust dose and monitor response

Lifestyle Still Matters

• Semaglutide works best when combined with:

  • Healthy diet

  • Regular physical activity

  • Adequate sleep

  • Long-term lifestyle changes

When to Contact Your Doctor Urgently

• Severe or persistent abdominal pain

• Repeated vomiting

• Signs of dehydration

• Symptoms of low blood sugar (sweating, dizziness, confusion)

Remember: Semaglutide is a long-term treatment. Consistency, patience, and follow-up are key to achieving the best results.

#Semaglutide #Cardiovascular health