The “good” news: the numbers on the scale are lowering from the effects of semaglutide medications such as Wegovy and Ozempic. The bad news: Accidental overdoses of these drugs are increasing. According to America’s Poison Centers, there were 3,000 calls alone regarding semaglutide incidents.
When shortages occurred in pre-filled injection pen medications of Wegovy and Ozempic, compounded forms of semaglutide became readily available. Compounded forms require patients to self-administer the drug via syringe, this can lead to improper dosing. Patients may misinterpret instructions or inject too soon after a prior dose. If dosing measurements are confused, this can lead to significant side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Though no deaths have been reported, a substantial percentage of overdose calls have required urgent medical attention.
Patients are advised to seek immediate help if they experience overdose symptoms like persistent nausea or vomiting. Contacting poison control or healthcare providers can help determine whether medical intervention is necessary or if symptoms can be monitored at home. This trend serves as a reminder of the importance of proper dosing and awareness when using powerful medications like semaglutide.
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