Drug Information Guide
GLP-1 receptor agonist·#3 most prescribed in Canada

Ozempicsemaglutide

Also known as: Wegovy (higher-dose weight loss formulation), Rybelsus (oral tablet form)

Ozempic (semaglutide) treats type 2 diabetes and reduces cardiovascular risk. Learn about dosing, side effects, and BC PharmaCare coverage at Pill4Me.

Prescriptions (Canada 2024)

7,400,000 prescriptions

Drug class

GLP-1 receptor agonist

DIN (Canada)

02471884, 02471892 +1 more

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It also reduces the risk of serious cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death) in adults with type 2 diabetes who already have heart disease.

How it works

Semaglutide mimics a natural gut hormone called GLP-1, which is released after eating. It stimulates the pancreas to release insulin only when blood sugar is high, slows how quickly food leaves your stomach (making you feel full longer), and signals your brain to reduce appetite. It does not work for type 1 diabetes.

Forms & strengths

Pre-filled injection pen for weekly subcutaneous (under-skin) injection. Doses: 0.25 mg/dose (starter dose), 0.5 mg/dose, 1 mg/dose, 2 mg/dose. Each pen delivers multiple weekly doses.

How to take it

Injected once weekly, on the same day each week. Can be taken at any time of day, with or without food. Injected under the skin of the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Start at 0.25 mg weekly for 4 weeks to minimize nausea, then increase. Store in the refrigerator; once in use, can be kept at room temperature for 56 days.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Nausea — most common, especially when starting or increasing the dose
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Stomach pain or discomfort
  • Decreased appetite
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Belching or bloating

Serious side effects — seek care immediately

  • Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas): severe, persistent stomach pain — seek emergency care
  • Gallbladder problems: gallstones, cholecystitis — watch for right-sided abdominal pain
  • Kidney problems: dehydration from nausea/vomiting can worsen kidney function
  • Worsening of diabetic retinopathy (eye disease) — report any sudden vision changes
  • Thyroid tumours — report any lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing

Important warnings

Do not use if you or a family member have had medullary thyroid cancer or MEN 2 syndrome

Stop Ozempic and contact your doctor immediately if you develop severe, persistent abdominal pain — this could be pancreatitis

Nausea and vomiting leading to dehydration can harm your kidneys — stay well hydrated, especially when starting

If used with insulin or sulfonylureas (glipizide, glyburide), your risk of low blood sugar increases — your doctor may lower the other medication

Ozempic is not approved for weight loss in Canada (that indication uses Wegovy at a higher dose) — use only as prescribed

Who should not take it

  • Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (a type of thyroid cancer)
  • Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
  • Type 1 diabetes — not effective and not approved for this use
  • Previous serious allergic reaction to semaglutide
  • Pregnancy — semaglutide should be stopped at least 2 months before planned pregnancy

Drug interactions

When combined with insulin or sulfonylureas (glyburide, glipizide), hypoglycemia risk increases — dose adjustment of those medications is often needed. Ozempic slows gastric emptying and can delay absorption of oral medications taken at the same time, particularly oral contraceptives and antibiotics — take time-sensitive medications at least 1 hour before the Ozempic injection day if concerned.

BC PharmaCare coverage

Ozempic (semaglutide) may be covered under BC PharmaCare depending on your plan. Diabetes medications are covered under the National Pharmacare plan (Plan NP) at no cost for eligible BC residents. Note: some diabetes drugs like saxagliptin, linagliptin, and pioglitazone require Special Authority approval — your doctor must apply before you fill. Ozempic and Metformin do not require Special Authority. Coverage amounts vary — Fair PharmaCare covers 70–100% after your annual deductible depending on your income. Call us at 604-705-3644 and we'll check your specific coverage in minutes. No generic version is currently available in Canada. BC PharmaCare covers the brand name where it is on the formulary. Coverage information is a general guide only. Your actual coverage depends on your PharmaCare plan and eligibility. We check coverage for free — call 604-705-3644 or ask at the counter.

Coverage details change — confirm with your Pill4Me pharmacist or visit BC PharmaCare.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use Ozempic for weight loss even if I don't have diabetes?
Ozempic (semaglutide 0.5–2 mg) is Health Canada approved only for type 2 diabetes. Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) is the version approved in Canada for chronic weight management in people with obesity. They contain the same drug at different doses. BC PharmaCare does not currently cover Wegovy for weight management without diabetes.
Why do I feel so nauseous when I first start Ozempic?
Ozempic slows how quickly food leaves your stomach, which commonly causes nausea, especially in the first few weeks. Starting at a low dose (0.25 mg) and eating smaller, lower-fat meals helps significantly. Nausea usually improves within 4–8 weeks as your body adjusts. Staying hydrated is important — if you cannot keep fluids down, contact your pharmacist or doctor.
What do I do if I miss a weekly Ozempic dose?
If it has been 5 days or fewer since the missed dose, inject it as soon as possible and then resume your regular weekly schedule. If it has been more than 5 days, skip the missed dose and take your next dose on your regularly scheduled day. Never inject two doses within 2 days of each other.
Is Ozempic the same as Wegovy?
Both contain semaglutide, but they are different products at different doses for different purposes. Ozempic delivers up to 2 mg weekly for type 2 diabetes. Wegovy delivers 2.4 mg weekly and is approved for chronic weight management in Canada. They cannot be substituted for each other.
How do I inject Ozempic and does it hurt?
Ozempic is injected once weekly under the skin of the abdomen, outer thigh, or upper arm. Use a new needle each time and rotate injection sites. Most patients find the needle very fine and the injection nearly painless. Let the pen warm to room temperature for 30 minutes before injecting to reduce discomfort.

Related medications

Jardiance (empagliflozin)Glucophage (metformin hydrochloride)Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate)

Questions about Ozempic?

Our Chilliwack pharmacists can review your medications, check for interactions, and answer any questions — at no charge.

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Medical disclaimer: This page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your pharmacist or prescriber before making any changes to your medications. BC PharmaCare coverage criteria are subject to change.