Ozempic Risks, Warnings, and Complications

Thyroid Cancer: Using Ozempic can increase your risk of developing certain types of thyroid C cell cancers, including medullary thyroid carcinoma. The risk of thyroid tumors is based on studies done in lab animals, but out of precaution, Ozempic is not given to people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or a condition called multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Call your healthcare provider immediately if you notice a mass in your neck, develop trouble breathing or swallowing, or have persistent hoarseness while using Ozempic, as these could potentially be signs of thyroid C cell tumors.

Pancreatitis: Rarely patients treated with Ozempic can develop pancreatitis (swelling and inflammation in the pancreas). Tell your doctor immediately if you develop persistent severe abdominal pain with or without vomiting. 

Eye Problems: Studies have shown that more diabetic retinopathy complications occurred in people using Ozempic compared to a placebo. The risk of eye problems is higher in people who have a history of diabetic retinopathy. If this is the case, your doctor might monitor your vision more closely. Keep all your appointments with your healthcare providers, including eye checkups, during Ozempic treatment.

Serious Infections: Sharing your Ozempic pen or needles with others can put you at risk of developing serious infections. Dispose of used needles carefully and never share an Ozempic pen with others.

Severe Hypoglycemia: Using Ozempic with other medications that also increase insulin levels can put you at risk of severe low blood sugar. The risk of this happening is higher in people taking insulin or other medications that increase insulin levels. You should learn to recognize the signs of low blood sugar and know what to do if it occurs. Signs and symptoms of low blood sugar may include shakiness, dizziness, sweating, confusion, and blurred vision. Tell your healthcare provider if this occurs - they might adjust the doses of your diabetes medications.

Kidney Problems: Ozempic can affect the functioning of the kidneys. The risk of this occurring is higher in people with known underlying renal disease, such as acute kidney injury or chronic renal failure. The risk is also higher in people taking other medications that affect the kidneys (such as diuretics or water pills, ACE inhibitors, and NSAIDs) and those with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.

Allergic Reactions: In a small number of people, hypersensitivity reactions occur to Ozempic. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include swelling of the eyes, face, throat, tongue, or lips; trouble breathing or swallowing; severe rash or itching; dizziness or fainting; and very rapid heartbeat. Stop using Ozempic and contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical help if this occurs.

Mental Health Changes: Using Ozempic injections for weight loss can lead to unexpected changes in mental health, including becoming suicidal. You or a family member should call your healthcare professional without delay if you experience symptoms of depression such as withdrawing from friends and family, thinking or talking about hurting yourself or ending your life, being preoccupied with dying or death, or any other changes in mood or behavior. Make sure that people in your family know which symptoms to look for so that they can call your doctor if you cannot seek help yourself.