Are you struggling to lose weight ? Sometimes, even after controlling your diet and exercising, it's hard to lose weight, right? So, today we're going to talk about a drug that doctors recommend to help you in such times. Its name is Semaglutide. Let's see what this drug is, how it works, and what you need to be careful about when using it.
What is Semaglutide?
Simply put, Semaglutide is a drug that helps you lose weight . It also helps you maintain that weight after you lose it.
This works by reducing our appetite . To be precise, when you take this medicine, you feel full even after eating a little. Therefore, the urge to eat constantly and overeating is controlled. Another good thing about this is that this medicine can also reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in people who are overweight.
But one thing must be kept in mind. This is not magic. This medicine is used in conjunction with a good diet and exercise . Otherwise, you cannot expect to lose weight by taking this medicine alone.
Things to tell your doctor before taking medication
It is very important that your doctor is fully aware of your health status before prescribing this medicine to you. If you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell your doctor about it.
| Do you have these conditions? | Description |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | If you have diabetes. |
| Eye problems | If there is any damage to the eyes due to diabetes. |
| Gallbladder disease | Gallstones or other medical conditions. |
| Mental problems | If you have previously had depression or thoughts of suicide. |
| Pancreatitis | If you have previously had pancreatitis. |
| Kidney disease | If you have any kidney disease. |
| Family cancer history | If you or someone in your family has had thyroid cancer or a glandular cancer called MEN 2. |
| Digestive system problems | Conditions such as digestive problems. |
| Pregnancy or breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to semaglutide or any other medicine or food. |
How should I use this medicine?
This is an injection that you can give yourself under the skin . It is usually given into the skin of the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Don't worry, your doctor or nurse will show you exactly how to give it.
This is usedOnce a week (once every 7 days). Continue using as long as your doctor tells you to.
Very important: Never throw used needles or pens in the trash. They should be placed in a special sharps container. If you don't have one, ask your doctor about how to get one.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
Imagine you forgot to take your medicine.
- If you miss a dose and it is more than two days until your next dose , take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
- But if it is less than two days until your next dose, don't take the missed dose. Just take your next dose at the scheduled time.
- Never take two doses at once.
- If you have been unable to take your medicine for two weeks or more, talk to your doctor before starting again.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken an overdose, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
Things to be careful about when taking this medicine
- Other medications: If you take insulin or other medications for diabetes, this medication can cause your blood sugar to drop too low. So be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar (dizziness, sweating, palpitations, confusion). Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- Cancer risk: This medication carries a very small risk of thyroid cancer in some people. Therefore, if you experience a lump in your neck, a change in your voice, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty breathing, see your doctor immediately .
- Drink plenty of water: This medicine can sometimes cause dehydration. So drink plenty of water throughout the day. If you have a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, it is important to tell your doctor about this as well, as your body will lose a lot of water.
- Surgery: If you are having any surgery, tell the doctor that you are taking this medication.
- Pregnancy: Weight loss is not recommended during pregnancy. Therefore, if you are trying to conceive, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding, be sure to talk to your doctor before taking this medication.
Side effects that may occur due to medication
Like any medicine, this one can cause some side effects. Some are serious, some are common.
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Pancreatitis | Severe stomach pain (this pain may feel like it's going to the back), vomiting, and fever. |
| Gallbladder problems | Severe pain in the upper right abdomen, vomiting, fever. |
| Thyroid cancer symptoms | A lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing, voice changes. |
| Effects on the kidneys | Decreased urine output, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
| Vision changes | Things like blurred vision. |
| Mental changes | Increased depression, frustration with life, suicidal thoughts. |
| Side effects that are usually nothing to worry about, but if they persist, you should tell your doctor. | |
|---|---|
| Vomiting/nausea | It is most common in the early stages of starting medication. |
| Stomach pain/bloating | Feeling of discomfort in the stomach. |
| Diarrhea | |
| Constipation | |
| Appetite | |
How should I store the medicine?
- Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets .
- The best thing is to keep it in the fridge .
- But never store it in the freezer . If you do, the medicine will freeze and become unusable.
- If left at room temperature outside the refrigerator, do not keep for more than 28 days.
- Do not use expired medicine.
Take-Home Message
- Semaglutide is a drug that helps with weight loss. However, it should be used in conjunction with a good diet and exercise .
- Before starting this medication, tell your doctor about all other illnesses you have and all medications you are taking.
- This is a once-weekly injection. Learn the correct way to use it.
- If you experience any serious side effects, such as severe stomach pain or a lump in your neck, see a doctor immediately.
- If you are taking medication for diabetes, be careful about low blood sugar levels.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share it with anyone else.
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