Ozempic injection in Dubai is a trusted and convenient solution for both blood sugar management and weight loss. At Euromed Clinic, our endocrinologists and family medicine doctors provide Ozempic injections in accordance with DHA guidelines, ensuring a thorough evaluation of your medical history and overall health to deliver a safe and effective treatment tailored to your needs. 

What Are the Benefits of Ozempic Injection? 

Ozempic offers several important benefits, especially for adults with type 2 diabetes. It helps control blood sugar levels, and when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, it can make managing diabetes much easier. Here are some key benefits:

• Ozempic can help lower blood sugar levels, making it easier to manage your diabetes. When you stay active and follow a balanced diet, it gives your body even more support in keeping your glucose levels in check. 
• The active ingredient in Ozempic, semaglutide, can also support weight loss. It helps reduce appetite and promote feelings of fullness, making it easier to stick to a healthy eating plan.
• For adults with type 2 diabetes who also have heart disease, Ozempic can help lower the risk of major cardiovascular events. This includes serious health problems like heart attacks, strokes, and even death caused by heart disease.
• If you have type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease, Ozempic can help slow down the progression of kidney damage. It reduces the risk of kidney failure and lowers the chances of dying from heart-related issues, which are common in people with kidney problems.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Ozempic Injection?

To be eligible for Ozempic injections in the UAE, the following criteria must be met:

• The individual must be an adult diagnosed with T2D.
• Additionally, candidates may include those who are obese and have not seen satisfactory results from diet and exercise alone.
• People seeking to control their blood sugar and glycemic levels can also be considered suitable candidates.
• Patients with T2D who are also managing cardiovascular disease can be eligible for Ozempic treatment.

However, it is important to note that Ozempic is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential risks to the baby, as the safety of Ozempic in these populations has not been established.

Pre-Procedure Care

Before starting Ozempic, make sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have any of the following:

• Pancreatic Problems: If you have or have had issues with your pancreas, inform your doctor.
• MEN 2 and MTC: Do not use Ozempic if you or your family have ever had Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2), a genetic disorder characterized by the development of tumors, possibly medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). 
• Diabetic Retinopathy: If you have a history of diabetic retinopathy, an eye disease related to diabetes, mention it to your provider.
• Stomach Issues: If you have severe stomach problems like slowed digestion or difficulty processing food, Ozempic may not be right for you.
• Surgical Procedures: If you are about to undergo any surgery or procedure that may require anesthesia or sedation, let your healthcare provider know. 

How Do You Use Ozempic Injection?

Before delving into the proper technique of administering Ozempic injections, it is crucial to emphasise that all medications, including Ozempic, should only be used under the guidance and prescription of a qualified healthcare provider. Additionally, it’s important to note that Ozempic is a costly medication, making it imperative to follow each step carefully. Now, let’s proceed with the process:

Initial Steps

• Ensure that the injection is up-to-date and not expired.
• Before preparing your pen, wash your hands.
• Remove the cap from the pen and ensure that the liquid inside the pen is clear and not cloudy.
• Take the needle and remove the label from it, then screw it tightly into the pen.
• Remove the outer cap from the needle, revealing the inner cap.

Checking Ozempic Flow

Now, let’s proceed to check the flow of Ozempic with each new pen. Follow these steps:

• Turn the dial to the flow check symbol.
• Press and hold the dose button to initiate the flow check.
• It’s crucial to note that you only need to perform the flow check with each new pen once.
• Next, you need to set your specific dose using the dose selector. Here’s how:
• Turn the dose selector dial until your prescribed dose is displayed.
• For example, rotate the dose selector from 0 mg until the dial shows 0.25 mg.

Preparing the Skin

• Take an alcohol swab.
• Rub the alcohol swab on the skin in a circular motion.
• Allow the skin to dry naturally before injecting, which typically takes a few seconds to a minute.

Injecting Ozempic Injection

Once the skin is dry, proceed with the following steps to administer the Ozempic injection:

• Pinch a section of the skin.
• Insert the Ozempic injection at a 90-degree angle into the pinched area.
• Choose an injection site where the dose counter is easily visible.
• Gently push the pen while carefully monitoring the dose counter.
• Once the full dose is delivered, hold the pen in place for a few seconds.
• Safely remove the pen from the skin.

Discarding the Needle

At the end, remove the needle and discard it in a dustbin or in a sharp container. 

For removing the needle, you can use the scoop method i.e., take the removed outer cap again and then screw it on the pen and then turn. You will see the needle removed easily with this technique 

What Are the Side Effects of Ozempic Injection? 

Ozempic is FDA-approved, meaning it is considered safe and effective for its intended use. However, like other medications, Ozempic can cause side effects, which vary among individuals. First of all, if you get any lump or swelling in your neck and with that you face difficulty in breathing and swallowing, stop using Ozempic. These may be symptoms of thyroid cancer, though, there is no proven study or confirmed evidence which affirms that Ozempic can cause thyroid cancer, still, for the sake of safety, stop using it. 

• Stomach pain
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Diarrhoea
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Injection site discomfort (such as redness, swelling, or itching)
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) when Ozempic is used in combination with other diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas
• Gallbladder problems (rare cases)

Tips for Managing Stomach Side Effects

As you may have noticed, the majority of the side effects are associated with the stomach. Therefore, it is necessary to know what exactly a person should do to cope with these challenges. The following tips may help you manage stomach side effects that rise due to the usage of Ozempic.

• Consume smaller meals and eat slowly. The more you chew the food, the better it will digest easily in the stomach. 
• Select foods that are low in fats like toast, rice, etc. 
• Avoid oily, fried foods, and limit soft drinks consumption. 
• Once you are done with eating, walk; don’t lie down. 

What Is the Price of Ozempic Injection in Dubai? 

The price of Ozempic injection in the UAE may vary, influenced by factors such as supply, demand, and pharmacy pricing policies. Initially, the base price of Ozempic was AED 1,200. However, the actual price may vary, either decreasing or increasing based on the availability of the injection. In situations where there is a shortage in the market, the price may be higher. 

Is Ozempic the Same as Mounjaro Injection? 

Mounjaro and Ozempic injections are both suitable for adults with T2D, but they have their own advantages and disadvantages. Mounjaro is particularly effective in promoting weight loss and reducing blood sugar levels, resulting in improved glycemic control. Each medication has its own profile of benefits and side effects. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional to determine which is more appropriate for your condition.

Can You Use Ozempic Instead of Insulin?

No, Ozempic is not a substitute for insulin and is not suitable for people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) or those with diabetic ketoacidosis. As always, any medication should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

How Many Kg Can I Lose With Ozempic? 

Weight loss results with Ozempic can vary greatly among individuals, depending on dosage, diet, and exercise. Research shows that with a higher dose (2 mg) and strict diet and exercise, you can lose up to 6.80 kg in 40 weeks. With a 1 mg dose, you can lose up to 5.89 kg in 40 weeks.

Can I Get Ozempic Without Diabetes? 

The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in the USA has approved Ozempic specifically for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, Ozempic may be prescribed off-label for weight loss in certain cases. It’s important to consult with a board-certified healthcare professional who is an expert in this area to ensure appropriate and safe use of the medication. Consult a healthcare professional for advice.

What Happens If I Stop Taking Ozempic?

If you stop taking Ozempic abruptly, there is a risk of sudden glucose level spikes and potential complications. Therefore, doctors recommend gradually discontinuing Ozempic rather than stopping suddenly.

Does Ozempic Melt Belly Fat? 

Yes, Ozempic may contribute to overall weight loss, which can include reduction in belly fat.  However, the exact percentage of how much belly fat one can reduce through Ozempic can vary depending on the individual case, diet, and exercise. 

What Foods Should Be Avoid While Taking Ozempic? 

While taking Ozempic, it is generally recommended to avoid

• High-calorie and high-sugar foods
• Beverages
• Processed snacks
• Desserts
• Fried foods
• Foods high in saturated fats.

Additionally, it is advisable to limit the consumption of alcohol.

Is Ozempic Legal in the UAE?

Yes, Ozempic is legal in the UAE. However, its purchase depends on the emirate you live in. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, you cannot buy it without a prescription from a licensed clinic.

Can I Buy Ozempic Over the Counter?

No, Ozempic cannot be purchased over the counter, whether you use it for T2D or weight loss purposes. It requires a prescription from either a registered clinic or a DHA-licensed professional practitioner.

How Much Ozempic for Weight Loss?

For weight loss purposes, the maximum amount of Ozempic dosage you can take per week is 2mg. 

What Is the Injection for Weight Loss in the UAE?

Saxenda, Ozempic, and Mounjaro are all FDA-approved injectable prescriptions for weight loss, now available in the UAE. However, consulting a qualified doctor is essential to assess your specific needs and determine the most appropriate dosage.