Semaglutide
Pronounced
"SEM-a-GLOO-tide"
Uses
Semaglutide is used with a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. Proper control of diabetes may also lessen your risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Semaglutide is similar to a natural hormone in your body (incretin). It works by causing insulin release in response to high blood sugar (such as after a meal) and decreasing the amount of sugar your liver makes.
Warning
This medication can cause a certain type of thyroid tumor (thyroid C-cell tumors) in rats. It is unknown if this medication can cause similar tumors in humans. Talk with your doctor about the benefits and risks of treatment with this medication. Do not use this medication if you have a personal/family history of a certain type of cancer (medullary thyroid carcinoma) or a certain inherited disease (multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 or MEN 2). While using this medication, tell your doctor right away if you notice any signs of thyroid tumors, including an unusual growth or lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, unusual/lasting hoarseness.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking semaglutide and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication with a sip of plain water (no more than 4 ounces or 120 milliliters) as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Do not take it with any other beverage. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not split, chew or crush the tablet. Wait at least 30 minutes after taking semaglutide before you eat or drink anything other than plain water and before taking any other medication by mouth.
For the best effect, you should eat 30 to 60 minutes after taking semaglutide. It is important to take this medication the same way with every dose.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.
Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse (your blood sugar is too high or too low).