Is Ozempic (Semaglutide) Safe?
Ozempic® can be considered safe given it has been rigorously tested in clinical trials to evaluate both its safety and efficacy before receiving FDA-approval and entering the market for widespread use. All medications carry potential risks and side effects, so it is no surprise that this is also the case with Ozempic. Common side effects of Ozempic include nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, and heartburn. More serious side effects are rare but include gallbladder disease such as cholecystitis (infection of the gallbladder). In a clinical trial, cholecystitis occurred in approximately 1.5% of patients taking 0.5 mg of Ozempic and 0.4% of patients taking 1 mg of Ozempic. It is important to carefully review the potential risks as well as benefits of any medication with your medical provider before starting and assess for any possible drug-drug interactions with medications you may already be taking.
Ozempic® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.
Lauren Lemieux, MD
FACP, ABOM diplomate
Dr. Lauren Lemieux completed her Internal Medicine residency and fellowship in Clinical Nutrition at UCLA. She is board certified in Internal Medicine and diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine, and as a Physician Nutrition Specialist. She is also a fellow of the American College of Physicians. Dr. Lemieux is passionate about helping her patients reach their health goals using personalized nutrition, lifestyle and weight management strategies.