Precautions during use of semaglutide injection

Semaglutide injection (Wegovy) is a drug widely used in weight management (obesity) and type 2 diabetes treatment in recent years. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, semaglutide promotes insulin secretion, suppresses appetite, and increases gastric emptying time by simulating the GLP-1 hormone naturally produced in the human body, thereby achieving the effects of lowering blood sugar and controlling weight. While semaglutide is effective in treating diabetes and weight loss, patients need to be aware of a range of potential side effects and risks during use.

1. ThyroidThe risk of C-cell tumors is an important issue that requires special attention when using semaglutide. Clinical studies have shown that GLP-1 receptor agonists may cause thyroid C-cell tumors in animal models, although clear evidence of such tumors in humans has not been observed in clinical trials. However, due to potential risks, the use of semaglutide is expressly contraindicated in people with a family history or disease of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2). Patients should discuss these risk factors with their doctor before starting this drug and have them checked regularly.

2. Acute pancreatitis is another possible side effect. Although this condition is rare, patients taking semaglutide need to pay attention to possible symptoms of pancreatitis, such as persistent abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, etc. If patients develop these symptoms, they should stop using the drug immediately and seek medical treatment. Acute pancreatitis is a serious illness that can have serious health consequences if not treated promptly.

3. Acute gallbladder disease is also a risk point when using semaglutide. GLP-1 receptor agonists are closely related to gallbladder contractile function and may aggravate gallbladder disease, especially in patients with a history of gallbladder disease. When using this drug, if patients experience persistent upper abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting and other symptoms, they should seek medical attention promptly to check whether there is a gallbladder problem.

4. Hypoglycemia is another side effect that requires special attention when using semaglutide, especially when the drug is used in combination with other antidiabetic drugs (such as insulin or sulfonylureas). Although semaglutide by itself does not typically cause hypoglycemia, the risk of hypoglycemia may be increased with coadministration. Patients need to monitor blood glucose regularly, especially during the initial treatment or dose adjustment phase.

5. Acute kidney injury is another side effect that needs attention. GLP-1 receptor agonists may affect kidney function, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney problems. During use, if the patient experiences symptoms such as decreased urine output, edema, or rapid weight gain, he or she should communicate with a doctor in time for renal function evaluation.

6. Allergic reaction is also one of the possible side effects of semaglutide, although this is rare. Allergic reactions include symptoms such as rash, shortness of breath, and throat swelling. If patients experience an allergic reaction, they should stop taking the drug immediately and seek medical help.

7.In patients with type 2 diabetes, semaglutide may affect the progression of diabetic retinopathy. In some patients, GLP-1 receptor agonists may accelerate the development of retinopathy, especially those with unstable blood sugar control. Therefore, patients with diabetes should receive regular eye examinations while taking semaglutide to ensure that retinopathy does not worsen.

8. Increased heart rate is another potential side effect of semaglutide. In some patients, a mild to moderate increase in heart rate may occur after use of this medication. Although this change in heart rate is usually not serious, patients with a history of heart disease or irregular heartbeats should still use it under the guidance of a doctor and regularly monitor their heart rate and heart health.

9. Patients taking semaglutide should be particularly vigilant about the risk of suicidal behavior and suicidal ideation. While this side effect is relatively rare in clinical trials, some patients may feel depressed or suicidal while taking the drug. If patients experience these symptoms, they should contact their doctor immediately to adjust their treatment plan or seek psychological intervention.

In summary, although the clinical effect of semaglutide has been widely recognized as an effective drug for the treatment of diabetes and weight loss, there are a series of potential risks that need to be paid attention to during its use. Patients should use this drug under the guidance of a doctor and conduct relevant examinations regularly to ensure the safety and efficacy of the drug.

Keyword tags: semaglutide, precautions, thyroid tumors, pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, hypoglycemia, kidney damage, allergic reaction, diabetic retinopathy

Reference materials:https://www.novo-pi.com/wegovy.pdf