Ozempic Side Effects

Ozempic contains semaglutide, the same active ingredient as the weight loss injection Wegovy, except Ozempic is approved to treat type 2 diabetes in the UK. Ozempic is associated with mild side effects like feeling sick and stomach pain.

Here, we explore the various Ozempic side effects and what you can do if you get them.

What is Ozempic used for?

Ozempic is a type 2 diabetes treatment in the UK, but it has, in the past, been prescribed for weight loss off-label. It contains the same active ingredient as the weight loss injection, Wegovy and belongs to the class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.

In the UK, Ozempic is specifically prescribed for:

• Managing blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes either alone or in combination with other anti-diabetes medications including insulin

However, like all medications, Ozempic can cause side effects. Although not everyone will get them, it is important to understand what to look out for when taking semaglutide or Ozempic.

Please note: Ozempic is not licensed to treat weight loss in the UK. However, some private clinics have prescribed it off-label for this in the past which led to medication shortages for people who needed it most to manage their blood glucose levels. Suppose you are looking for an alternative to Ozempic for weight loss. In that case, you’ll need Wegovy which contains the same active ingredient, semaglutide, but in a suitable dose to help you lose weight safely and effectively. The starting dose for Wegovy is 0.25 mg per week which titrates up to the maximum maintenance dose of 2.4 mg per week. Whereas, Ozempic starts at 0.25 mg but has a maximum dose of 2 mg per week.

What are the most common Ozempic side effects?

The most common Ozempic side effects are:

• Feeling or being sick
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Stomach pain

These side effects can affect more than 1 in 10 people who use Ozempic.

What are the common Ozempic side effects?

The side effects listed below are common side effects that can affect up to 1 in 10 people who use Ozempic:

• Indigestion
• Stomach inflammation also known as ‘gastritis’
• Acid reflux or heartburn
• Stomach pain
• Bloating
• Constipation
• Burping
• Gallstones
• Dizziness
• Tiredness
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Gas

In most cases, these side effects are usually temporary and go away either when you stop using Ozempic or as your body gets used to the medication.

How can I manage Ozempic side effects?

Most common or mild Ozempic side effects can be easily managed at home. Below are some of the things you can do.

What is Ozempic face?

Ozempic face refers to some of the noticeable facial changes some people who use Ozempic experience. It happens when they lose a lot of weight in a short space of time. However, even though it’s called Ozempic face, it’s a side effect of rapid weight loss rather than the medication itself.

Rapid and significant weight loss can cause:

• Sunken or dark circle under your eyes
• Hollowed cheekbones or temples
• Sagging skin around the jawline and jowls
• Increased wrinkles around the eyes, forehead, and mouth

What are the serious side effects of Ozempic?

Rarely, Ozempic can cause serious side effects. They include:

• Inflamed pancreas (acute pancreatitis)
• Severe allergic reactions

You must tell your clinician if you get any of the following:

• Vision changes
• Severe stomach and back pain that does not go away

If you experience the following, you should get immediate medical attention:

• Breathing problems
• Swollen face, lips, tongue and/or throat with difficulty swallowing
• Fast heartbeat

How long do Ozempic side effects last?

Mild Ozempic side effects are usually only temporary and manageable while you are using the medication. They will usually improve or go away on their own once your body gets used to the active ingredient, semaglutide. Some people only experience side effects briefly while titrating (increasing) their dose.

If you stop taking Ozempic, it may take around 5 weeks for the active ingredient to be fully eliminated from the body. So, if you stop using Ozempic because you are getting side effects, it may take 5 weeks from your last dose for them to stop.

Are Ozempic and Wegovy side effects the same?

Because Wegovy and Ozempic contain semaglutide, their side effects are similar. However, the frequency and intensity of side effects may vary due to differences in dosing.

Summary

Like all medications, Ozempic can cause side effects, so it is important to discuss any concerns you may have with your clinician. Most mild side effects are temporary and will go away on their own or can be managed at home. If you are considering Ozempic for weight loss, you should instead choose Wegovy, which is licensed for weight loss in the UK.

Authored By

Leanne Edermaniger

Medical Content Writer

Leanne is a science and health content writer focusing on human health and biology while utilising her solid academic background.

Published on: 05/02/2025

Reviewed By

Mohamed Imran Lakhi

MPharm - Lead Pharmacist

Imran Lakhi is the superintendent pharmacist and founder at Prescription Doctor. He has been at the core of our team.

Reviewed on: 05/02/2025