Overview
Use this article to understand the side effects of Ozempic®, including common, uncommon, and rare side effects, when to seek medical attention, and how to reduce nausea, stomach discomfort, or injection site irritation.
Use this article when you want to:
Learn about common Ozempic® side effects.
Understand uncommon and rare Ozempic® side effects.
Know when to seek medical attention for Ozempic® side effects.
Reduce nausea, stomach discomfort, or injection site irritation caused by Ozempic®.
Common Side Effects of Ozempic®
Like all medications, Ozempic® can cause side effects. Many Ozempic® side effects are mild and may improve as your body adjusts to treatment.
Common Ozempic® side effects, affecting more than 1 in 10 people, may include:
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Decreased appetite
Constipation
Stomach (abdominal) discomfort
Injection site reactions
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially when Ozempic® is used with other diabetes medications
Many common Ozempic® side effects improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication. Digestive side effects are often more noticeable:
When starting Ozempic® treatment
After increasing an Ozempic® dose
After eating large or high-fat meals
Uncommon Side Effects of Ozempic®
Uncommon Ozempic® side effects, affecting around 1 in 100 people, may include:
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) episodes requiring meal or medication dose adjustments
Increased stomach discomfort or ongoing digestive symptoms
Possible Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
Possible symptoms of low blood sugar while using Ozempic® may include:
Sweating or shaking
Dizziness or confusion
Hunger
Fast heartbeat
Headache
Speak with a healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of low blood sugar while using Ozempic®.
Rare Side Effects of Ozempic®
Rare Ozempic® side effects, affecting around 1 in 1,000 people, may include:
Allergic reactions
Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
Liver enzyme changes
Possible Signs of Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is a serious condition that requires urgent medical attention. Symptoms of pancreatitis include:
Severe stomach pain that does not go away (may radiate to the back)
Persistent vomiting
Possible Signs of a Severe Allergic Reaction
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction to Ozempic®, including:
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Severe rash or hives
Severe dizziness or fainting
When Should I Seek Medical Attention for Ozempic® Side Effects?
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
Severe or persistent stomach pain
Severe vomiting or signs of dehydration
Difficulty breathing
Fainting or severe allergic reactions
Speak with a healthcare provider if your Ozempic® side effects:
Become difficult to manage or do not improve over time
Prevent you from eating or drinking normally
Cause concerns about continuing your Ozempic® treatment
How Can I Reduce Ozempic® Side Effects?
Reducing Nausea
Eat bland, low-fat foods (like crackers, toast, or rice).
Eat slowly and in smaller portions.
Avoid greasy, spicy, or very sweet foods.
Drink clear or cold liquids.
Avoid lying down immediately after meals.
Reducing Constipation or Stomach Discomfort
Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Slowly increase fiber-rich foods such as vegetables, berries, and beans.
Stay physically active, including short daily walks.
Reducing Injection Site Irritation
Rotate injection sites each week (between the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm).
Do not rub the injection area after the dose.
Apply gentle pressure if there is minor bleeding.
Mild redness, tenderness, or itching at the injection site is common and usually fades quickly.
Additional Ozempic® Safety Information
To help maintain Ozempic® safety and effectiveness:
Use Ozempic® exactly as prescribed.
Follow your dosing schedule carefully and stay hydrated.
Review the Patient Information Leaflet supplied with your Ozempic® medication.
Do not stop Ozempic® treatment without medical guidance from a healthcare professional.
Need Further Support?
If you still need help after reviewing the information above, additional assistance is available.