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Patient Guide

Ozempic (Semaglutide) Quick Start

Everything you need to know about starting your semaglutide program. Always follow your physician's specific instructions.

Dosing Schedule

0.25 mg
Weeks 1–4 (start)
0.5 mg
Week 5+ (maintenance)

Your physician may increase to 1 mg if additional blood sugar control is needed. Ozempic is taken once weekly, on the same day, with or without food.

Changing your dose day

You may change the day as long as your last dose was given 2 or more days before.

Missed a dose?

Take as soon as possible within 5 days. If more than 5 days have passed, skip and resume your regular schedule.

How to Inject

1

Prepare your pen

Read the label — confirm it contains Ozempic. The medicine should be clear and colorless.

2

Attach a new needle

Tear off the paper tab. Push and turn the needle until tight. Pull off both needle caps.

3

Check the flow

Turn dose selector to the flow check symbol. Press dose button until counter shows 0. Confirm a drop appears at the needle tip.

4

Select your dose

Turn the dose selector to your prescribed dose (0.25 mg or 0.5 mg).

5

Inject

Insert needle into your skin. Press and hold dose button. After counter reaches 0, slowly count to 6. Remove needle.

6

After your injection

Remove needle and place in a sharps container. Put the pen cap back on.

Injection sites

Stomach (abdomen), thigh, or upper arm. Rotate sites with each injection — do not use the same spot twice in a row. Do not inject into muscle or vein.

Storage

Before first use

Refrigerate at 36°F–46°F until expiration date.

After first use

Refrigerate OR room temp 59°F–86°F for up to 56 days.

Common Side Effects

NauseaDiarrheaVomitingStomach painConstipation

If you experience nausea:

  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals
  • Eat light and bland foods (crackers, plain bread)
  • Avoid fried, greasy, or sweet foods
  • Drink clear or ice-cold drinks

Questions about your Ozempic program?

(281) 666-9211