What are the long-term side effects of Ozempic?

Key Points

• Most side effects of Ozempic (semaglutide) are short-term, and resolve with time or when you stop taking the medication.
• Ozempic has the potential to cause certain long-term problems that may last months or years after stopping it.
• Some examples of long-term side effects you may experience from Ozempic include pancreatitis, vision problems, acute kidney injury, and acute gallbladder disease.

Can Ozempic Cause Long-Term Effects?

Yes, Ozempic (semaglutide) has been associated with certain long-term side effects. Clinical trials studied Ozempic for 30 weeks for type 2 diabetes, 104 weeks for cardiovascular outcomes (SUSTAIN trials), and 41 months in adults with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Below are some of the reported long-term effects: Please note that these are not all possible side effects from Ozempic. Review the full product information and discuss your risk for side effects with your healthcare provider.

Pancreatitis

Although rare, pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) has been reported by some people who took Ozempic during clinical trials. However, it is unclear if Ozempic causes pancreatitis.

In one 2-year study, 8 people taking Ozempic experienced pancreatitis compared to 10 people taking a placebo (no active medication). A more recent meta-analysis that included about 35,000 patients found that semaglutide is not associated with a higher risk of pancreatitis compared to placebo.

While more evidence is coming out showing no association between Ozempic and pancreatitis, there continue to be cases of people who are taking the medication reporting it. Watch out for signs and symptoms of pancreatitis, which may include:

• Severe upper stomach pain that may radiate to the back
• Nausea or vomiting
• Rapid heartbeat
• Fever
• Diarrhea

Pancreatitis usually goes away within 2 weeks, but it can last longer. There was one report of chronic (long-term) pancreatitis in one patient taking Ozempic during clinical trials.

Vision problems

Ozempic may worsen an eye condition called diabetic retinopathy as blood sugar levels improve rapidly. In a 2-year study:

• 3% of Ozempic users experienced complications vs. 1.8% taking a placebo

Ozempic might also cause an eye condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), which is when the optic nerve doesn’t get enough blood supply.

Research suggests a drop in blood sugar can trigger changes in the eye that can lead to damage in people who have high blood sugar. It is not fully clear how Ozempic may cause NAION, which could lead to vision loss.

Contact your prescriber or eye provider if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Blurry vision
• Floating spots in your vision
• Loss of vision
• Distorted colors
• Light sensitivity

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Acute kidney injury

Vomiting and diarrhea—common Ozempic side effects—may lead to dehydration and subsequent kidney injury. In most cases, kidney function improves with treatment, but some cases may result in permanent damage. Your risk is higher if you already have kidney problems.

Your healthcare provider may monitor your kidney health through blood tests when you start Ozempic and when your dose is raised. Seek medical attention if you have severe vomiting, diarrhea, or are urinating less than usual.

Gallbladder problems

Ozempic may increase the risk of gallstones and gallbladder disease. In clinical trials:

• 1.5% of people taking Ozempic developed gallstones vs. 0.4% on placebo.

Contact your healthcare provider if you notice symptoms of gallstones or gallbladder problems, such as:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Sudden, severe abdominal pain
• Fever
• Chills
• Light-colored stools
• Yellowing of the skin or whites of your eyes

Intestinal obstruction

Post-market reports of ileus (intestinal blockage) led the FDA to update Ozempic’s label. This condition can be life-threatening if untreated. A blockage can cause serious infections or rupture of your intestine.

Tell your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of intestinal blockage, including:

• Stomach pain or swelling
• Loss of appetite
• Constipation
• Nausea or vomiting

Many of the symptoms caused by ileus are similar to side effects of Ozempic. See your healthcare provider regularly so they can make sure this medication continues to be safe for you to take.

Risk of thyroid tumors

Animal studies have linked semaglutide to thyroid C-cell tumors, though the risk in humans is unknown. Warning signs of thyroid tumors include:

• Lump or swelling in your neck
• Hoarse voice
• Difficulty swallowing
• Shortness of breath

Contact your healthcare provider right away if you notice any of the symptoms listed above.

This is not all the information you need to know about Ozempic (semaglutide) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your healthcare provider’s directions. Review the full patient medication guide and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.