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When is the best time of day to take Ozempic?

Medically reviewed by Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD. Last updated on March 19, 2025.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

You can take Ozempic (semaglutide) at any time of the day, as long as you take it once a week on the same day each week. Setting a reminder can help ensure you don’t miss a dose. Try to choose a time to inject your dose of Ozempic when you’ll be most likely to remember.

When Should You Take Ozempic?

The time of day you take Ozempic does not affect how well it works. However, some people choose a specific time based on how they tolerate the medication:

  • If you experience nausea after your injection, taking it at night may help you sleep through discomfort.
  • If injection site pain disrupts sleep, consider taking it in the morning so any discomfort subsides by bedtime.

Can You Take Ozempic With Food?

Yes, Ozempic can be taken with or without food. Your meal timing does not affect how the medication works.

Key Takeaway

Choose a time to take Ozempic that fits your routine and helps manage any potential side effects. If you have concerns about side effects or timing, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

References

Novomedlink.com. Frequently asked questions about Ozempic® (semaglutide) injection. Accessed 05/31/2024 at https://www.novomedlink.com/diabetes/products/treatments/ozempic/about/frequently-asked-questions.html

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Mounjaro and Ozempic are prescription medicines used alongside diet and exercise to help control blood sugar (glucose) levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. Ozempic is also approved to lower the risk of a major cardiovascular event (like a heart attack or stroke) in patients with type 2 diabetes, as well as to reduce the risk of worsening kidney disease and heart-related death in patients with type 2 diabetes. Mounjaro has not yet received these indications, although studies are ongoing.

In a large, 2024 retrospective study in adults with overweight or obesity and treated for type 2 diabetes, Mounjaro led to at least a 5% weight loss within one year in 81.8% of adults compared to 66.5% of those using Ozempic. Continue reading

Ozempic Side Effects to Watch For

The most common Ozempic side effects with Ozempic include stomach problems, like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain and constipation. These tend to be mild-to-moderate and usually clear up in a few weeks in most people. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is also a common side effect (when used with certain other diabetes treatments) and it can be serious. Continue reading

How do Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy, Zepbound compare for weight loss?

Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy and Zepbound can all lead to long-term weight loss, but only Wegovy and Zepbound are approved by the FDA for this use. In studies, Zepbound has led to a 21% weight loss in adults using the highest dose, while Wegovy has led to about a 15% weight loss. Continue reading

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