Semaglutide is a prescription drug that works to help individuals improve their blood sugar control. Generally, people 18 years of age and older who have overweight or obesity and meet other prescribing criteria are eligible for semaglutide. However, it is essential to note that seniors, children, and those with certain medical conditions (such as liver or kidney issues, heart disease, diabetes, and seizures) may require additional checks and monitoring before taking semaglutide. 

The medication should not be used by those with a history of thyroid cancer or those with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2. Before starting semaglutide, it is recommended that you consult your doctor or healthcare practitioner for more information about its use and eligibility requirements.

The typical starting dose of semaglutide medication is 0.25 milligrams (mg) by injection once weekly. It can be self-injected under the skin (subcutaneously) of your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Your healthcare practitioner may adjust your dosage depending on how well you respond to the drug and tolerate its side effects. Be sure to follow all instructions provided to get the most benefit from semaglutide.

Taking semaglutide can help with weight management, but it is essential to continue taking the medication as your healthcare practitioner prescribes. Generally, semaglutide therapy should be continued as long as it's helping to control blood sugar levels and not causing severe side effects. Your healthcare practitioner may have you take semaglutide for up to three years or longer, depending on its effectiveness for your health goals.

In Canada, semaglutide is not available over the counter, so you need a prescription from a prescriber.

If you are seeking a prescription for semaglutide, you can talk to a Felix healthcare practitioner about whether it is an appropriate treatment option for you. 

In Canada, most provincial and private health insurance plans do not cover the cost of semaglutide for weight management. It is essential to check with your insurer to determine if you are eligible for coverage and what amount will be covered. Some plans may require specific criteria to be met to be eligible for coverage. 

Semaglutide is a medication typically prescribed for monitoring and regulating adult blood sugar levels. It is used to help lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of long-term complications associated with diabetes. However, it may also be appropriate for adults with prediabetes, obesity, or both. It is essential to talk to your healthcare practitioner about whether semaglutide is an appropriate treatment option for you.

Semaglutide typically begins to work within a few weeks of taking it. Some people may notice an improvement in as few as 1-2 weeks after starting the medication, while others might take up to 8 weeks to notice a difference. It is important to continue taking semaglutide as prescribed until your healthcare practitioner advises otherwise.

The most common side effects of semaglutide are gastrointestinal-related (nausea, diarrhea, indigestion and constipation)  which typically diminish over time.

If you’re concerned about side effects, reach out to your healthcare practitioner.

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While some people might experience increased energy after taking semaglutide, it is not considered a direct side effect of the medication. Improved blood sugar levels, weight loss, or other medication side effects could increase energy levels. However, if you are experiencing a significant change in energy levels while taking semaglutide, it is important to contact your healthcare practitioner.

Semaglutide is available as a pill, known as Rybelsus. Felix is currently only offering semaglutide in an injectable form and it is typically administered once per week using a pen-style device. 

If you are seeking a prescription for semaglutide in an injectable form, you can talk to a Felix healthcare practitioner about whether it is the right solution for you.

Ozempic is the brand name for the medication semaglutide, an injectable medication that mimics the body's GLP-1 hormone, usually produced in the intestines and helps to regulate insulin and glucagon levels. In addition to helping manage blood sugar levels, this medication plays a part in long-term weight loss by counteracting some biological factors that can make it difficult for people to maintain a healthy weight. Semaglutide is also approved by Health Canada as a weight loss medication, while Ozempic is not.

Yes, semaglutide is a medication available for weight loss/weight management.

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Semaglutide is typically taken once a week by injection under your skin. You and your healthcare practitioner will determine your best schedule and dose based on your needs. If you're taking other diabetes medications, your healthcare practitioner may adjust the doses and timing of those medications.

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Studies suggest semaglutide can reduce inflammation in individuals with type 2 diabetes; however, further research is needed to confirm its efficacy. To date, semaglutide has mainly been used to help manage blood sugar levels, but more research may shed light on its role in reducing inflammation.

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The time of day when you inject semaglutide does not have much impact on its effectiveness so long as it is taken as prescribed by your healthcare practitioner. It's important to follow instructions from your practitioner about dosage and timing, as this will ensure that you get the most out of your treatment.

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No, while both are used to treat type 2 diabetes, they work differently in the body; metformin reduces an individual's resistance to insulin, while semaglutide stimulates insulin production and decreases the amount of glucose produced in the liver. Depending on your individual needs, one or both may be recommended for treatment by your healthcare professional.

No, semaglutide does not need to be refrigerated. Semaglutide should be stored between 2 to 30°C and does not need to be refrigerated unless you are unable to keep the medication in the appropriate temperature range.