Semaglutide belongs to a class of medication called glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists. It works by mimicking a hormone to make the pancreas produce more insulin and less glucagon to control blood sugar level. It is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus and prevent cardiovascular disease in diabetic patients.
Semaglutide is administered subcutaneously via pre-filled injection pens. The usual dose is 0.25 mg once weekly for 4 weeks, then increases to 0.5 mg once weekly. It may be increased to maximum 1 mg once weekly if additional glycemic control is needed after at least 4 weeks of the 0.5-mg weekly dosage.
Common side effects of Semaglutide include nausea, abdominal pain, constipation, decreased appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Common dosing schedule:
Semaglutide can be injected subcutaneously in the abdomen, thigh or upper arm. Use Semaglutide once weekly, on the same day each week, at any time of day independently of meals.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Semaglutide may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Semaglutide is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Semaglutide in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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