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Chronic Care Diabetes GLP-1 Semaglutide Ozempic
Chronic Care ... Ozempic

Ozempic® (semaglutide) prescription available online

Ozempic® is a prescription drug for adults with type 2 diabetes used to improve blood sugar levels. Ozempic® may also help with weight loss when accompanied by eating changes and exercise. Speak to one of our trusted, board-certified doctors about how Ozempic® could be right for you. In the event of a nationwide shortage, in which Ozempic is commercially unavailable according to the FDA, your physician may recommend compounded semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic®) as an alternative.*

Only taken once a week Average weight loss of over 15 pounds* Type 2 diabetics can significantly reduce A1C and risk of major cardiovascular events
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Get Ozempic Online

*Due to the Ozempic® shortage, specific dose strengths, particularly starter doses, may be unavailable. If Ozempic® is commercially unavailable and listed on the FDA shortage list, our doctors may prescribe compounded semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic®, if deemed appropriate. These compounded medications are prepared by our preferred  state-licensed sterile compounding pharmacy partner that complies with all federal and state laws and FDA regulations. However, compounded semaglutide, like all compounded drugs, is not FDA-approved and does not undergo FDA review for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing. Compounded semaglutide prescriptions are limited to residents in the following states: AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, KS, MA, MD, ME, MO, MT, ND, NE, NH, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, TX, UT, WA, Washington D.C., and WY.

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What is Ozempic®

Ozempic®, a GLP-1 agonist, works by increasing the activity of a hormone we have called GLP-1. This hormone helps insulin release, slows down digestion (gastric emptying), and reduces appetite.

It lowers blood sugar and hemoglobin A1C levels and reduces the risk of major cardiovascular events in type 2 diabetes patients. Ozempic® can improve type 2 diabetes symptoms when used alongside healthy lifestyle modifications, such as enhancing diet and exercise.

 

It is important to note that if you're prescribed Ozempic®, complete the entire course of the GLP-1 agonist unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t continue to use your prescription as directed, it will not continue to treat your type 2 diabetes or weight-related medical problems, both of which are chronic conditions.

How to get Ozempic®

Ozempic® is a drug that requires a prescription before use. While Ozempic® was initially designed to help blood sugar levels and is not a weight loss drug, its active ingredient, semaglutide, was approved for weight management by the FDA in 2021 under the brand Wegovy®.  If you have type 2 diabetes and are interested in getting prescribed Ozempic® online, you can speak with one of our trusted, board-certified physicians online to see if it's right for you.  

 

If you're considering other GLP-1 drugs for weight loss, our board-certified doctors can help support your weight management journey and see if one of these drugs is best for you. 

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How to take Ozempic®

Ozempic® is injected under the skin, once weekly at any time of the day, with or without food. Inject the medication on the same day of each week. 
 
Ozempic® can come in different doses, so follow your doctor's dosing instructions carefully. The dosing schedule may be similar to the following: 

  • For the first 4 weeks: 0.25 mg injected once weekly 
  • After 1 month: 0.5 mg once weekly 
  • After 2 months: increases every 4 weeks, reaching up to 2 mg once weekly, depending on how you respond to the medication 

 

If you miss a dose of Ozempic®, take the medication immediately and return to your regular dosing schedule. If you're more than five days late for the injection, skip the missed dose and follow your regular schedule. If you miss a dose by two or more weeks, consult with your doctor before resuming. 
 
If you take too much Ozempic®, contact your local poison control center or seek emergency medical help. 

Ozempic® uses

Type 2 diabetes mellitus

Ozempic® is FDA-approved as therapy to use alongside diet and exercise to control blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. Ozempic® can also help reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and stroke, in adults with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Ozempic® is not recommended for adults with type 1 diabetes. 
 
We are committed to offering personalized solutions for our patients. While Ozempic® (semaglutide) is an excellent choice for many, we want to highlight alternative options to ensure patients can access the most suitable treatment. Based on availability and individual needs, our skilled online doctors may offer or prescribe another GLP-1 to treat type 2 diabetes. These GLP-1 options include: 

 

  • Compounded Semaglutide: In the event of a national shortage in which Ozempic® is commercially unavailable according to the FDA shortages list, physicians may prescribe compounded semaglutide. prescribed Although compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved, our preferred pharmacy provider complies with pertinent federal and state laws and FDA regulations.* 
  • Rybelsus® (semaglutide): This oral GLP-1 medication provides a convenient option for those who prefer a pill over an injection. 
  • Mounjaro® (tirzepatide): This dual-action GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist helps regulate blood sugar levels and may be recommended for patients looking for a comprehensive approach to managing their diabetes. 
  • Trulicity® (dulaglutide): Trulicity® is a once-weekly injection known for its user-friendly design, featuring a pre-filled, disposable pen. 
  • Victoza® ((liraglutide):Victoza® is a daily injectable GLP-1 drug with a proven track record in managing diabetes. 
  • Bydureon® (exenatide): Bydureon® is unique for its extended-release formulation, requiring only once-weekly injections. 

 

*As of 8/15/2024, availability for compounded semaglutide is currently limited to residents in the following states: AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL KS, MA, MD, ME, MO, MT, ND, NE, NH, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, TX, UT, WA, Washington D.C. WY. Although compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved, our pharmacy provider complies with all federal and state laws and FDA regulations. Doses of Ozempic® that are in shortage will be available as compounded semaglutide only until the shortage has ended. 

What are the pros and cons?

Ozempic®

Pros

Average of 12% of body weight loss with exercise and diet (6) Significantly lowers blood glucose levels (1.8% A1C reduction) Works great with low-carb, low-calorie eating and daily moderate exercise

Cons

  • Only indicated for type 2 diabetes

  • Insurance may require prior authorization for each dose increase

  • Requires ongoing use and lifestyle changes for sustained A1C improvement

What to avoid while taking Ozempic®

Ozempic® has some significant drug interactions. Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs. Some oral medicines that may interact with Ozempic® include: 

 

  • Duetact 
  • Metaglip 
  • Avandaryl 
  • DiaBeta 
  • Glucotrol 

 

It is essential to report any unexpected side effects to your doctor when you take Ozempic®. This includes a decreased appetite or signs of an allergic reaction. Also, make sure you understand the symptoms of high blood sugar, multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome, and the development of a severe infection. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if it is acceptable to consume alcohol while taking Ozempic®. 

 

Some research shows that regular alcohol consumption may have an impact on blood sugar control. Some alcoholic beverages contain high sugar content. This can increase the risk of high blood sugar and make it harder for the medicine to do its job. If you drink excessively, then it may instead increase the risk of hypoglycemia. 

Ozempic® side effects

The side effects associated with taking Ozempic® are typically mild. Most Ozempic® side effects are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort.  
  
The most common side effects of Ozempic® include: 

  • Low blood sugar

  • Upset stomach, heartburn, or bloating

  • Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain

 

Nausea is commonly experienced after the first injection. This side effect goes away for most people within a few days or weeks.

Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:

  • Vision changes

  • Unusual mood changes

  • Pounding heartbeat


Talk to your doctor if you notice adverse effects, such as low blood sugar or kidney problems. Do not stop taking Ozempic® unless directed by your doctor. The use of Ozempic® is not recommended in children under 18. 

Ozempic® prescription FAQs

How to get Ozempic® for weight loss?

Ozempic® is a type 2 diabetes drug. If you have type 2 diabetes and are interested in Ozempic®, speak with one of our trusted, board-certified physicians online to see if it's right for you. This includes discussing your medical history and current medications, and ordering baseline lab tests to determine if you qualify for an Ozempic® prescription.

While Ozempic® is not specifically for weight loss, Ozempic®’s ingredient, semaglutide, was approved for weight management by the FDA in 2021. This branding of semaglutide has been named Wegovy®. If you're considering a Wegovy® prescription online, our board-certified doctors can provide valuable insights into how it may benefit you.

If you're seeking support on your weight management journey, Ozempic® Health Coaching provides tailored guidance. Their diabetes health coach sessions are designed to steer, assist, and inspire you toward achieving diabetes goals.

How much does Ozempic® cost?

Your monthly cost may vary if you qualify for an Ozempic® prescription and the drug is included in your insurance plan’s formulary.  Without insurance, depending on your pharmacy, Ozempic® costs around $949 for a 2 mg/3 mL injectable solution (price may vary depending on dose).

Many branded type 2 diabetes and weight loss medications require prior authorization by insurance carriers to cover the cost. Your PlushCare physician and care team will reach out to your insurer on your behalf, and this process can take several business days. If you are denied the prior authorization or do not have health insurance, you may still purchase the medication at the full cash price. It is important to note that a type 2 diabetes diagnosis is required for insurance approval of this medication.

Does Ozempic® work for weight loss?

Although only FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, Ozempic® may help with weight loss alongside diabetes management. Results vary in adult patients with Ozempic®. Some people lost weight quickly in the trials; for others, losing weight may take longer. Ozempic® has been shown to help individuals with type 2 diabetes lose body weight in a safe, long-term, and healthy way. One of our top-rated, board-certified doctors will help you with dosages of Ozempic® and might recommend slowly increasing dosage over time to maximize results.

The speed at which you lose weight is primarily influenced by the lifestyle changes you can make with diet and exercise. It’s important to remember that weight loss takes time, and you’ll have the best results if you use Ozempic® in combination with exercise and a healthy diet.

How much weight can you lose on Ozempic®?

Ozempic® is not a weight loss drug. Ozempic® may be able to help patients with type 2 diabetes lose weight. How much weight you can lose with Ozempic® depends on your dosage and how long. In clinical trials, it took 68 weeks for the average study participant to lose 33 pounds on a 2.4mg dose of semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic®.1

How does Ozempic® work for type 2 diabetes?

Ozempic® works by increasing the activity of a hormone in our bodies called GLP-1. This hormone helps the body use insulin better to manage blood sugar and also signals to our brain that we’re full. Over time, this can significantly lower your A1C and lead to much better control of your diabetes.

Using Ozempic® long-term under close monitoring by our doctors at PlushCare can lead to improved health and reduced risks of long-term complications of type 2 diabetes.

Is Ozempic® good for weight loss?

Ozempic® is only FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes. Based on clinical trials completed, Ozempic® is an effective drug for helping individuals with type 2 diabetes achieve weight loss when it is part of a lifestyle change program.

Research published in 2021 concluded that “in participants who are overweight or obese, 2.4 mg of semaglutide (Ozempic®) once weekly plus lifestyle intervention was associated with sustained, clinically relevant reduction in body weight.”1 The results of the clinical trials showed that in 1961 adult patients, the average weight loss in 68 weeks was:

  • 15.3 kg (33.1 lbs) with 2.4 mg of semaglutide (Ozempic®) weekly

  • 2.6 kg (5.1 lbs) with placebo

How can I refill my Ozempic® prescription?

To refill your Ozempic® prescription, book a virtual appointment with one of our top-rated, board-certified doctors. After reviewing your health, ordering any necessary lab work or evaluations, and assessing your results, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.

Who should not take Ozempic®?

Avoid taking Ozempic® if you have certain medical conditions, such as:

  • A personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma

  • Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2

  • Type 1 diabetes

  • Pancreatitis

  • Diabetic retinopathy

  • Kidney disease

3 simple steps to discuss your online Ozempic® prescription

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Step 1

Book a visit with a doctor to discuss Ozempic®.

During your first visit, your PlushCare doctor will review your medical history and health goals.
How It Works Step 2A
Step 2

Talk to your physician regarding an Ozempic® prescription.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer. Often, lab work is required, and they’ll send an order to your preferred lab. Once your results are available, your doctor will review them with you and discuss treatment options at a follow-up visit.
How It Works Step 3
Step 3

Pick up your Ozempic® prescription, if prescribed.

Prescriptions are provided based on eligibility and safety. Our physicians may prescribe medications, help you set diet and exercise goals, and monitor your progress through routine follow-up appointments.

Ozempic® prescription pricing details

Join our monthly membership to speak with a physician about starting or refilling an Ozempic® prescription and enjoy discounted visits*

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week
  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team
  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests
  • Free memberships for your family
  • Cancel anytime

Paying with insurance

$19.99

First month free

+

Copay

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less! We accept these insurance plans and many more:
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Paying without insurance

$19.99

First month free

+

$129

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.

Book an appointment

*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included. Please refer to our refund policy for additional information.

Sources:

PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.

  1. "Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity." The New England Journal of Medicine. Accessed on November 7, 2023, at https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183.

  2. Food and Drug Administration. Ozempic® (semaglutide) injection prescription label. Accessed on September 25, 2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/209637s003lbl.pdf

  3. Food and Drug Administration. FDA Approves New Drug Treatment for Chronic Weight Management, First Since 2014. Accessed on September 25, 2022. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-drug-treatment-chronic-weight-management-first-2014

  4. Mayo Clinic. Semaglutide (Subcutaneous Route). Accessed on September 25, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/semaglutide-subcutaneous-route/description/drg-20406730

  5. Ozempic: "Ozempic - Semaglutide." Accessed on December 5, 2023, at https://www.ozempic.com/.

  6. "GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Their Evolving Role in the Management of Obesity." National Library of Medicine.  Accessed 19 Aug. 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9486455/ 

PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.