Ozempic (semaglutide injection), manufactured by Danish pharma company Novo Nordisk, has been approved by India's drug regulator, Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).
With this approval, adults with type 2 diabetes can be administered this once-a-week injection, which will be available only on a doctor's prescription.
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or does not respond to insulin properly.
"Semaglutide Injection (Ozempic@) is indicated for the treatment of adults with Insufficiently Controlled Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus as an adjunct to Diet and Exercise," the approval by CDSCO said on September 26.
The drug, which was originally approved for type 2 diabetes, is also widely used for weight management. While there are numerous pros in using the drug, one also needs to be careful when using it, as not everyone is eligible to use it due to its side effects.
Who is at risk?
Pregnant women should exercise caution and consult an expert for advice. According to the official website, there is limited data on semaglutide use in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk for adverse developmental outcomes. There are clinical considerations regarding the risks of poorly controlled diabetes in pregnancy.
No dose adjustment of Ozempic is recommended for patients with renal and hepatic impairment. The official website also mentions to discontinue Ozempic in women at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy due to the long washout period for semaglutide.
What are the side effects?
The most common side effects of Ozempic may include nausea, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea and vomiting.
For more information, consult a doctor.