Ozempic (generic name: semaglutide) is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, prescribed for type 2 diabetes management, and to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes and known heart disease [1].
When combining medications, it's crucial to consider potential drug interactions. According to the official Ozempic Prescribing Information, there are limited interaction studies conducted with Ozempic [2]. However, some general classes of medications that patients should be cautious of when taking Ozempic include:
1. Oral anti-diabetic medications: When initiating Ozempic, consider reducing the dosage of oral anti-diabetic medications to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia [2].
2. Incretin-based therapies: Coadministration with other GLP-1 receptor agonists or dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors is not recommended due to the potential risk of increased glycemic-lowering effect [2].
3. Insulin: Caution is advised when initiating Ozempic in patients on insulin therapy, as the risk of hypoglycemia may be increased [2].
4. Antihypertensive medications: Ozempic may decrease systolic blood pressure, so caution is required when coadministering with other antihypertensive medications [2].
5. Oral contraceptives: Although no specific drug-drug interaction studies have been conducted, Ozempic may affect the glycemic control of women using oral contraceptives [2].
For a comprehensive and up-to-date list of drug interactions, consult resources such as DrugPatentWatch.com or other reputable drug interaction databases [3].
Sources:
[1] FDA. (2017). Highlights of Prescribing Information - Ozempic (semaglutide) injection, for subcutaneous use.
<https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/208577s000lbl.pdf>
[2] Novo Nordisk. (2018). Ozempic (semaglutide) Prescribing Information.
<https://www.novo-pi.com/ozempic.pdf>
[3] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Drug Interactions.
<https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug-interactions/>