Ozempic 1.34mg/ml (1mg/dose) Pre-filled Pen 3ml x1 (pen)
Introduction of Ozempic 1.34mg/ml (1mg/dose) Pre-filled Pen 3ml x1 (pen)
Ozempic 1.34mg/ml (1mg/dose) Pre-filled Pen is a prescription-only injectable medication belonging to the GLP-1 receptor agonist drug class, with semaglutide as its active ingredient — a well-established compound widely recognised in modern pharmaceutical care. If you are considering this medication, it is important to know that like most medicines, it does come with some side effects to be aware of, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and injection site reactions, which are among the most commonly reported. The pre-filled pen format is designed to make self-administration as straightforward and convenient as possible, and each pen is pre-measured to deliver a precise 1mg dose per injection. Before starting or purchasing this medication, we always encourage you to consult a qualified healthcare professional, as this is a prescription medicine that requires proper medical guidance tailored to your individual health needs. Your safety and confidence in the medicines you use genuinely matter to us, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
How to Take Ozempic 1.34mg/ml (1mg/dose) Pre-filled Pen
Ozempic 1.34mg/ml (1mg/dose) Pre-filled Pen is administered as a subcutaneous injection, meaning it is injected just under the skin — typically into the abdomen, upper arm, or thigh — once weekly on the same day each week. The injection can be given at any time of day, with or without food, and the site of injection should be rotated with each use to minimise skin irritation. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's specific instructions on how to use the pen correctly, including how to attach the needle and dispose of it safely after each use.
Dosage of Ozempic 1.34mg/ml (1mg/dose) Pre-filled Pen
The standard recommended dose for this formulation is 1mg once weekly, administered via subcutaneous injection, as directed by a licensed healthcare professional. Dosage adjustments should only be made under medical supervision, and you should never alter your dose without first consulting your doctor.
Shelf Life of Ozempic 1.34mg/ml (1mg/dose) Pre-filled Pen
Ozempic 1.34mg/ml (1mg/dose) Pre-filled Pen has a shelf life of up to 3 years from the date of manufacture when stored correctly and remains unopened. Once the pen has been opened and is in use, it should be used within 56 days (8 weeks), regardless of whether it is stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature during this period. Always check the expiry date printed on the pen and packaging before use, and do not use the product if it has expired.
How to Store Ozempic 1.34mg/ml (1mg/dose) Pre-filled Pen
- Before first use: Store the pre-filled pen in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C. Do not freeze it, and keep it away from the freezer compartment or cooling elements.
- After first use (in-use pen): The pen can be stored either in the refrigerator (2°C–8°C) or at room temperature not exceeding 30°C for up to 56 days.
- Keep the pen away from direct sunlight and heat sources at all times.
- Always store the pen with the pen cap on to protect it from light.
- Keep this medication out of reach of children.
- Do not use the pen if it has been frozen, even if it has thawed — discard it and obtain a replacement.
- Do not store the pen with a needle attached to prevent contamination and accidental leakage.
Active Ingredient of Ozempic 1.34mg/ml (1mg/dose) Pre-filled Pen
The active ingredient in Ozempic 1.34mg/ml (1mg/dose) Pre-filled Pen is:
- Semaglutide 1.34mg/ml — delivering 1mg per dose
Semaglutide is a synthetic analogue of human glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a naturally occurring hormone involved in metabolic regulation. It is manufactured by Novo Nordisk and is the same active compound found across the Ozempic product range, with the concentration and delivery format specifically designed for once-weekly subcutaneous administration.
Side Effects of Ozempic 1.34mg/ml (1mg/dose) Pre-filled Pen
Very Common Side Effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people):
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
Common Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):
- Decreased appetite
- Indigestion (dyspepsia)
- Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining)
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Bloating or flatulence
- Belching
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions (redness, bruising, itching, or swelling at the injection site)
- Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
Uncommon Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):
- Acute gallbladder disease (cholelithiasis/gallstones)
- Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), particularly when used with other antidiabetic medicines
- Dysgeusia (altered taste sensation)
- Hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., rash, urticaria)
Rare but Serious Side Effects — Seek Immediate Medical Attention:
- Acute pancreatitis (severe and persistent abdominal pain radiating to the back)
- Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis, angioedema — swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat)
- Diabetic retinopathy complications (changes in vision)
- Acute kidney injury (in cases of severe dehydration due to gastrointestinal side effects)
Important: This is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms, stop using the medication and contact your doctor or seek medical attention promptly.
Contraindications of Ozempic 1.34mg/ml (1mg/dose) Pre-filled Pen
- Hypersensitivity: Individuals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to semaglutide or any of the excipients in the formulation must not use this product.
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC): Semaglutide is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of this rare type of thyroid cancer.
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2): This medication must not be used in patients diagnosed with MEN 2, a genetic condition associated with thyroid and other endocrine tumours.
- Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: Ozempic is not indicated for use in patients with Type 1 diabetes and should not be used as a substitute for insulin.
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): This medication is not suitable for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Ozempic is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and are advised to discontinue the medication at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy.
- Paediatric Use: The safety and efficacy of this specific formulation in children and adolescents under 18 years of age have not been fully established; use should be guided strictly by a specialist.
- Severe Gastrointestinal Disease: Patients with serious gastrointestinal conditions, including gastroparesis, should exercise caution, and use should be evaluated carefully by a healthcare professional.
Please Note: This list is not exhaustive. Always disclose your full medical history, current medications, and any known allergies to your doctor or pharmacist before starting this medication.
Drug & Food Interactions of Ozempic 1.34mg/ml (1mg/dose) Pre-filled Pen
Drug Interactions
- Insulin and other antidiabetic agents (e.g., sulphonylureas): Combining Ozempic with insulin or sulphonylureas may significantly increase the risk of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). Your doctor may need to adjust the doses of these medicines accordingly.
- Oral medications (general): Because semaglutide slows gastric emptying, it has the potential to affect the absorption rate of orally administered medicines. This is particularly relevant for medications that require rapid or precise absorption (e.g., certain antibiotics, oral contraceptives, or thyroid medications). Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any oral medicines regularly.
- Oral contraceptives: There is a theoretical possibility that delayed gastric emptying may slightly reduce the absorption of oral contraceptive pills. Women are advised to discuss this with their healthcare provider.
- Warfarin and other anticoagulants: Monitoring of INR (blood clotting levels) may be required when initiating or adjusting semaglutide therapy, as changes in food intake and body weight can influence anticoagulant requirements.
- Cyclosporine: Close monitoring is advised if used concurrently, as altered absorption may affect drug levels.
Food & Lifestyle Interactions
- Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption may increase the risk of hypoglycaemia and can worsen gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and vomiting. Moderate alcohol intake is generally advised.
- High-fat or large meals: While there is no strict dietary restriction, consuming very large or high-fat meals may worsen gastrointestinal side effects, particularly during the initial weeks of treatment.
- Dehydration risk: If you experience significant vomiting or diarrhoea, ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration, which can place strain on the kidneys.
Always inform your doctor and pharmacist of all prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are currently taking before starting Ozempic.
Quick Tips for Ozempic 1.34mg/ml (1mg/dose) Pre-filled Pen
- Always use this medication under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional — it is a prescription-only medicine.
- Set a weekly reminder to take your injection on the same day each week to maintain consistency and avoid missed doses.
- Rotate your injection sites (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm) with every injection to prevent skin irritation or lipodystrophy at the injection site.
- Check the solution before injecting — Ozempic should appear clear and colourless to slightly yellow. Do not use it if it appears cloudy, discoloured, or contains particles.
- Never share your pre-filled pen with anyone else, even if the needle has been changed — this poses a serious risk of cross-contamination and infection.
- Dispose of used needles safely in a sharps disposal container — do not recap or reuse needles.
- Do not freeze the pen — if it has been accidentally frozen, do not use it.
- Keep the pen cap on when not in use to protect the medication from light exposure.
- Store the in-use pen for no longer than 56 days, whether kept in the fridge or at room temperature (below 30°C).
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible within 5 days of the missed dose. If more than 5 days have passed, skip the missed dose and resume your regular weekly schedule.
- Keep all medications out of reach of children and store them in a secure location.