How to use Ozempic injection?

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a prescription medication that comes as an injectable treatment for people with type 2 diabetes and, more recently, for weight loss in individuals with obesity. It is administered via a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection, typically once a week. This guide will walk you through the detailed process of using Ozempic Injection in Dubai, from preparing the medication to administering it and managing the injection site.

Understanding Ozempic Pen

Ozempic is provided in a pre-filled pen that contains a fixed dose of medication. The pen is designed to be easy to use and can be administered at home. The pen should be stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it, but once in use, it can be kept at room temperature for up to 4 weeks.

Before Using Ozempic Injection

Before administering the injection, follow these important preparatory steps:

• Check the Expiry Date: Ensure that the medication has not expired. If the expiration date has passed, dispose of the pen safely and get a new one.

• Gather Supplies:

  • Ozempic pen (pre-filled with medication)
  • A new, sterile needle (provided with the pen)
  • Alcohol swabs (for cleaning the injection site)
  • A sharps container for disposing of the needle

• Wash Your Hands: Clean your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the pen and preparing the injection.

• Check the Pen: Remove the cap of the Ozempic pen and inspect the medication. It should be clear and colorless. Do not use it if the solution is cloudy, discolored, or contains particles.

Preparing the Ozempic Pen

To ensure that the pen works properly and to avoid air bubbles, you need to prime it before your first use or if it hasn’t been used in a while. Priming is a crucial step to make sure you’re getting the full dose of the medication.

1. Attach a New Needle: Take a new needle from the packaging, and screw it securely onto the top of the Ozempic pen. Be sure not to touch the needle’s tip to keep it sterile.

2. Prime the Pen:

   • Turn the dose dial to 0.25 mg (the lowest dose).
   • Hold the pen with the needle pointing upward, and tap it gently to bring any air bubbles to the top.
   • Press the dose button until you see a droplet of medication come out of the needle. This confirms that the pen is primed and ready to use. If you don’t see a droplet, repeat the priming process.

Selecting the Injection Site

The Ozempic injection should be given under the skin (subcutaneously). Common areas for injection include:

• The abdomen (avoiding a 2-inch area around the navel)
• The thigh
• The upper arm (if someone else is giving the injection)

Choose a site that is clean and free of irritation. It’s important to rotate your injection sites each week to avoid irritation or buildup of fat under the skin (lipodystrophy).

Injecting Ozempic

Once the pen is primed, you are ready to administer the injection.

1. Clean the Injection Site: Use an alcohol swab to clean the skin at the chosen injection site. Allow the area to dry to prevent stinging when the needle is inserted.

2. Inject the Medication:

   • Pinch the skin lightly to create a small fold, especially if you’re injecting into the abdomen or thigh.
   • Insert the needle into the skin at a 90-degree angle (straight in). If you are using the upper arm or a person with more body fat, the angle may be slightly different, but a 90-degree angle is standard.
   • Press the dose button on the pen to inject the medication. Keep the button pressed until the dose counter shows “0,” indicating the full dose has been delivered.

3. Remove the Needle: After the injection, hold the pen in place for a few seconds to ensure all the medication is absorbed. Then, remove the needle from the skin and gently release the skin fold.

4. Dispose of the Needle: Place the used needle in a sharps container for safe disposal. Do not reuse needles or pens.

After the Injection

Once you’ve administered the injection, follow these post-injection steps:

• Dispose of the Pen Properly: If you have finished using the pen, dispose of it as directed by your healthcare provider. If there is still medication in the pen, it can be used for future doses, but be sure to store it properly (in the refrigerator if unused).

• Monitor for Side Effects: While most people do not experience significant side effects, it’s important to be aware of potential issues. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, or constipation, which may subside after a few weeks. If you experience severe reactions such as dizziness, low blood sugar, or signs of an allergic reaction (such as swelling or trouble breathing), contact your healthcare provider immediately.

When to Use Ozempic

• Frequency: Ozempic is administered once a week, on the same day each week, at any time of the day. You can choose to take it with or without food.

• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose of Ozempic, here’s what to do:

  • If you remember within 5 days of the missed dose, inject it as soon as possible. Then, continue with your regular schedule of weekly injections.
  • If more than 5 days have passed since the missed dose, skip it and take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses in one week to make up for a missed dose.

Storage of Ozempic Pen

• Before Use: Keep your unopened Ozempic pen in the refrigerator (36°F to 46°F or 2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze it.

• After Use: Once you begin using the pen, you can store it at room temperature (below 86°F or 30°C) for up to 4 weeks. Do not refrigerate the used pen again.

Important Considerations

• Consult Your Doctor: Before starting Ozempic, and whenever you have concerns or need adjustments to your dosage, consult your healthcare provider.
• Dosage Adjustment: Your doctor may start you on a lower dose and gradually increase it to minimize side effects like nausea. The typical starting dose is 0.25 mg once a week for 4 weeks, followed by an increase to 0.5 mg. Depending on your response, the dose can be increased further to 1 mg or 2 mg.

Conclusion

Using Ozempic involves preparing the pen, selecting an appropriate injection site, and administering the medication under the skin once a week. By following the proper steps for injection and rotation of sites, Ozempic can be a highly effective tool in managing type 2 diabetes and promoting weight loss. If you have any concerns or experience problems with your injection, consult your healthcare provider for assistance.