Ozempic is a medication that helps control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. It works by stimulating the release of insulin from your pancreas and lowering the amount of glucagon secreted in your stomach.
It can also increase your feeling of fullness and slow down the rate that food leaves your stomach. It can help you lose weight and control your diabetes.
What are the risks?
If you’re trying to conceive, it’s important to talk to your doctor about the risks of getting pregnant while on ozempic. There are a few things to consider, such as the medication’s safety during pregnancy and if it passes into breast milk.
Ozempic is a drug called a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, or GLP-1 agonist. It’s used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity.
The manufacturer recommends that you stop taking this medication two months before you get pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It also advises that you use other medications, including insulin, to manage your blood sugar while pregnant.
There is also a risk of having an allergic reaction to this medication, so you should call your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms like swelling or itching of the skin; problems breathing or swallowing; and a rash. These side effects can be serious and may not go away. They can also affect the way you feel or how well you sleep.
How do I know if I’m pregnant?
If you’re a woman who has been prescribed Ozempic or Wegovy (the higher-dose version of semaglutide), it’s important to know how to spot the signs of pregnancy. Symptoms can include feeling tired or having muscle soreness, and headaches.
If these symptoms persist, contact your doctor or a fertility specialist right away. They can also give you tips on how to stay hydrated and healthy.
Your doctor will also be able to tell you if it’s safe to get pregnant while taking Ozempic. They may recommend using contraception before and during treatment with the drug.
Other common side effects of Ozempic include nausea and gas build-up. These symptoms are usually mild and go away as your body gets used to the medication.
What should I do if I’m pregnant?
You should tell your GP or midwife as soon as you think you are pregnant. This will help you to plan your maternity care or abortion as soon as possible.
You may also want to ask for counselling. Counselling can be helpful for many people, particularly those who are finding it difficult to make a decision about their pregnancy.
During your pregnancy, it’s important to eat a healthy diet. Try to eat a variety of foods and drink plenty of water.
It’s also a good idea to stay active. Exercise can be very helpful for you and your baby.
Talk to your health professional about what exercises are best for you during your pregnancy.
Pregnant women are also advised to avoid certain foods. These are items that can harm your baby, like soft cheeses made from unpasteurized milk, raw cookie dough and undercooked meats, eggs and seafood.
You should also let your GP know about any medications you take. This will ensure that your doctor can switch you to a safer medication.
What can I do if I’m pregnant while taking Ozempic?
If you are pregnant or trying to conceive, it is important to stop taking Ozempic (semaglutide) at least 2 months before you plan to get pregnant. This is because it can cause serious health problems in your baby, including low birth weight and premature delivery.
You may also need to have a doctor monitor your pregnancy closely and refer you to a maternal-fetal medicine specialist for special care. These specialists have experience with high-risk pregnancies and can help keep your pregnancy as healthy as possible.
Your doctor will talk to you about how to take Ozempic safely during pregnancy. You may need to take a lower dose or use a different drug than you normally do. It is important to drink plenty of fluids so you don’t dehydrate yourself.