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. Semaglutide is also used in people with type 2 diabetes and long-term kidney disease/heart disease to lower the risk of death from heart attack or stroke. In people with long-term kidney disease, this medication may also help slow down the worsening of kidney disease.
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.
If you use insulin, semaglutide is not a substitute for insulin treatment.
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 and Instructions For Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using semaglutide and each time you get a refill. Ask your health care professional how to prepare and use this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Inject this medication under the skin as directed by your doctor, usually once every 7 days. The injection is given in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. This medication may be used with or without meals. 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.
Before using, check this product for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Before injecting each dose, clean the skin you are going to inject into (the injection site) with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. To lessen bruising, do not rub the injection site after a shot. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark your calendar with a reminder. If needed, the day of weekly use may be changed as long as the time between two doses is at least 2 days. Carefully follow the medication treatment plan, meal plan, and exercise program your doctor has recommended.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse (your blood sugar is too high or too low).