Ozempic (semaglutide) is a once-weekly medicine used along with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes.
But it can also cause serious side effects in people with obesity or other weight-related conditions. And some health experts worry that the drug could be dangerous to a developing baby.
What are the risks?
Ozempic is a type of drug called a glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 agonist). It helps control blood sugar levels by stimulating your body’s production of insulin, and it lowers the amount of glucagon your body makes.
It also limits how fast your stomach can empty and absorb sugars from food. It’s used in combination with diet and exercise to treat diabetes.
If you’re pregnant or plan to become pregnant, you should talk with your doctor before taking ozempic early pregnancy. It can increase the risk of birth defects or miscarriage.
During pregnancy, ozempic can cause problems for your baby, including low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. It can also worsen diabetic retinopathy, which is a complication of diabetes that causes damage to the eyes.
Ozempic has been linked to an increased risk of thyroid cancer in some people who take it, so you should talk with your doctor if you have a family history of thyroid cancer or if you have a rare form of cancer called multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2. You may also want to avoid alcohol while on ozempic because it can change your blood sugar levels and increase your risk of hypoglycemia.
How do I know if I’m pregnant?
There are several different symptoms that can be a sign of early pregnancy. Some of the most common include a missed period, nausea (morning sickness), tiredness and frequent urination.
The most accurate way to know if you are pregnant is to take a pregnancy test. These tests measure the level of hCG in your pee to determine whether you are carrying a baby.
Another sign of pregnancy is spotting or light bleeding. This happens when a fertilized egg implants into your uterine lining, usually about six to 12 days after conception.
Breast changes: Your breasts become tender and swollen due to the rise in progesterone. Your areolas (the area around your nipple) may darken or enlarge as well.
Although every woman experiences pregnancy differently, the following symptoms can be a warning that you are becoming pregnant. If you experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor or OB/GYN for a urine or blood pregnancy test to confirm the results.
What should I do if I’m pregnant?
During pregnancy, it is important to nurture your overall health. This means eating healthy and getting enough rest.
Physical activity is also an important part of a healthy lifestyle and can help you feel your best throughout your pregnancy. It is best to start slowly and listen to your body as you work out.
Be sure to drink plenty of fluids before, during and after exercise to avoid overheating and dehydration.
One of the best ways to do this is by making a plan for the types of activities you want to include in your routine. This could include walking, riding a bike or taking a prenatal yoga class.
The best way to get the most out of your activities is to choose those that are safe and fun for you. The most important thing is to make sure you are doing the right things for you and your baby. This will lead to a healthier pregnancy and better outcomes for both you and your unborn child.
Is it safe to take ozempic during pregnancy?
Ozempic is an injectable medicine that helps control blood glucose (sugar) levels in people with Type 2 diabetes. It works by reducing the amount of sugar that your body absorbs from food.
It also reduces the amount of insulin you need to take by helping your body use it more efficiently. Both of these effects help keep your blood sugar level more stable and can lower your risk for heart disease and stroke.
Semaglutide is a synthetic version of a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). GLP-1 helps your stomach feel full and increase early satiety by slowing the rate at which food moves from your stomach into your small intestines.
This can help you feel fuller for longer and may result in weight loss. It isn’t known if ozempic passes into breast milk or if it can cause a problem for babies born to women who are taking the drug.
It is recommended that people who are on ozempic stop using the drug at least two months before trying to become pregnant. This will allow the drug to have time to clear from your system.