Ozempic (semaglutide) is a prescription drug that is used to treat Type 2 diabetes. It is also FDA-approved to treat chronic kidney disease in adults with Type 2 diabetes. While Ozempic is sometimes prescribed off-label for weight loss, off-label use is generally not covered by health insurance.

Semaglutide belongs to a class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. Currently, no generic versions of Ozempic are available on the market.

Semaglutide is not an insulin medication. Instead, it mimics the effects of a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Ozempic is only available via a written prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

Ozempic is a prescription medication approved by the FDA to help patients manage type 2 diabetes. As of January 2025, Ozempic can also be prescribed to patients with both Type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease to reduce the risk of kidney disease worsening, kidney failure, and death from heart disease.

Ozempic is also used off-label for weight loss in patients with overweight or obesity. It is not intended for use in people with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. Ozempic is often prescribed when lifestyle changes, diet, and exercise alone cannot effectively control blood sugar levels.

Ozempic (semaglutide) works by mimicking the action of GLP-1, a hormone that naturally occurs in the body. GLP-1 helps regulate blood sugar by stimulating the release of insulin from the pancreas and slowing down the emptying of the stomach. This leads to reduced blood sugar levels after meals and an increased feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management.

Additionally, Ozempic also reduces the production of glucose by the liver. By combining these mechanisms, semaglutide helps lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

It's important to note that Ozempic is not a cure for diabetes but rather a tool to help manage the condition effectively.

While using Ozempic (semaglutide), some individuals may experience side effects, although not everyone will.

Mild side effects may include:

• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Abdominal discomfort
  
• Constipation
  
• Heartburn and burping
  
  

More severe side effects may include:

• Gastrointestinal and Liver Issues: Abdominal pain, vomiting, yellowing of skin/eyes, clay-colored stools
  
• Allergic Reaction: Rash, swelling, breathing difficulties
  
• Kidney and Fluid Retention: Decreased urination, swelling (legs/ankles/feet)
  
• Neurological and Vision Problems: Dizziness, vision changes, confusion, headache, shakiness, rapid heartbeat
  
• Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): Hunger, weakness, jitteriness
  
  

Report any persistent or severe adverse reactions to your health care provider.

Before starting treatment with Ozempic (semaglutide), it's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with semaglutide.

Tell your provider if you have:

• A history of pancreatitis
  
• Gallbladder problems
  
• Kidney disease
  
• Thyroid disorders (like medullary thyroid carcinoma)
  
• Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
  
• Retinopathy (eye problems)
  
• Any digestive disorders
  
  

Your healthcare provider will assess your medical history and determine if Ozempic is a suitable treatment option for you.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using semaglutide to assess potential risks and benefits.

The recommended dosage of Ozempic will vary depending on the individual and their specific needs.

Typically, Ozempic is administered as a subcutaneous injection once a week. The dosage may be adjusted as needed to achieve optimal blood sugar control. Do not discontinue or alter the treatment without consulting your healthcare provider, as this can affect the medication's effectiveness.

Ozempic (semaglutide) is available by prescription only. You must consult a licensed healthcare provider to obtain this medication.

Providers on Sesame are unable to prescribe controlled substances.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment.

Providers on Sesame can help you get a prescription for Ozempic (semaglutide), which you can then pick up at a nearby pharmacy. Don't wait to get your prescription filled—talk to a provider on Sesame today to streamline the process for convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.

Semaglutide is primarily marketed under the brand name Ozempic. As of now, there are no generic versions of semaglutide available.

Semaglutide is also available in a stronger form under the brand name Wegovy. Wegovy is manufactured by the same company that makes Ozempic. It is specifically designed to help with weight loss in certain patients. There are no generic versions of Wegovy available.

Oral semaglutide is available under the brand name Rybelsus. There are no generic versions of Rybelsus available. This medication is manufactured by the same company that makes both Ozempic and Wegovy–Novo Nordisk.

The Success by Sesame subscription starts at just $99 per month and includes telehealth visits, unlimited messaging, and ongoing clinical care from a provider of your choice. The $99 subscription fee does not include the cost of medication.

It's important to note that brand-name GLP-1 medications like Wegovy, Zepbound or Saxenda can be expensive without insurance coverage, typically ranging between $950 to $1,600 per month out-of-pocket. If you are insured, your provider can assist with insurance pre-authorization paperwork to help reduce the cost of your medication.

Note that providers on Sesame set their own prices, which means that some providers may offer the service at a higher price.

Certain GLP-1 therapies such as semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Wegovy), liraglutide (the active ingredient in Saxenda and Victoza), and tirzepatide (the active ingredient in Mounjaro and Zepbound) may increase the likelihood of developing thyroid gland tumors, including MTC, a type of thyroid cancer. This conclusion is based on studies where laboratory animals given semaglutide, liraglutide, tirzepatide and other GLP-1 medications developed tumors. However, it is not yet confirmed if these medications pose the same risk to humans. You can find additional information about the risks of FDA-approved medications that contain semaglutide here.

It’s important to inform your doctor if you or any family member has ever had MTC or MEN. If this is the case, your doctor will likely advise against taking GLP-1 medications.

If you are prescribed a GLP-1 medication and exhibit any of the following symptoms, you should contact your provider immediately:

• A lump or swelling in the neck
  
• Hoarseness
  
• Difficulty swallowing
  
• Shortness of breath
  
• Severe abdominal pain
  
  

Before taking GLP-1 medications, you should also discuss the following with your provider:

Allergies: Inform your doctor and pharmacist of any allergies you have to semaglutide (including under brand names Ozempic, Rybelsus, Wegovy) or similar medications such as tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound), dulaglutide (Trulicity), exenatide (Bydureon BCise, Byetta), liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza, or in Xultophy) and lixisenatide (Adlyxin, or in Soliqua).

Personal and family medical history: Be sure to disclose if you have a history of medical conditions like pancreatitis, diabetic retinopathy, gallbladder disease or kidney disease. Inform your doctor about recent episodes of diarrhea, nausea, vomiting or any inability to consume liquids, which could lead to dehydration.

Current medications and supplements: Provide a comprehensive list of all medicines and supplements you are currently taking, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products. This is crucial as GLP-1 medications can alter how your body absorbs oral medications.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant soon.

Surgical procedures: In the event of surgery, including dental procedures, inform the medical or dental professional that you are on GLP-1 medication.

It's essential to thoroughly discuss these risks with your healthcare provider and consider your personal and family medical history when deciding whether to use these medications. Your doctor can provide guidance on the best course of action based on your specific health situation.