Which is better for you as a Type 2 Diabetic…Ozempic or Metformin?
Ozempic or Metformin is often a choice we are given when first put on blood sugar management medication. They are two of the most common medications for Type 2 Diabetes.
These drugs can help control blood sugar levels, but they work differently. Metformin works by preventing the liver from making too much sugar. But, Ozempic helps reduce the amount of sugar the body absorbs from food.
Ozempic and metformin are both excellent medications for people with Type 2 Diabetes. However, they differ in terms of their side effects, effectiveness, and how they are used.
Learning the differences between these two medications is important. It’s how you and your doctor will choose which is better for your condition.
Effectiveness
In general, the two drugs have comparable effects on blood sugar levels.
However, when they are combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, these two drugs function best. This is because a healthy lifestyle can help optimize the medication’s effects, leading to better blood sugar control.
When diabetes is initially diagnosed, Metformin is typically the drug of choice.
In contrast, Ozempic is especially advised for treating Type 2 Diabetes in individuals with other health complications.
It’s usually suggested for diabetic people with heart failure, cardiovascular disease, or kidney disorders. It offers extra advantages in avoiding a heart attack or stroke.
Ozempic has been shown to be more effective than Metformin at reducing A1C levels. Ozempic is an injectable medication used to treat Type 2 Diabetes. It works by helping your body use insulin more effectively. Ozempic is usually given once a week. Ozempic also causes less weight gain than metformin.
What You Need to Know About Metformin
Side Effects of Ozempic and Metformin
The most common side effect of Ozempic is nausea1https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-ozempic-side-effects, which can often be controlled by taking the medication with food or water. It can also make patients vomit, feel stomach pain, and have diarrhea.
Ozempic may also cause serious side effects2https://www.ozempic.com/how-to-take/side-effects.html such as severe allergic reactions, Pancreatitis, vision changes, and kidney problems. If the effects are severe, it is important to contact a healthcare provider.
Meanwhile, the most common side effect of Metformin is diarrhea.
This side effect can often be managed by adjusting the metformin dose or by taking the medication with food. Along with diarrhea, the medicine may also cause headaches, constipation, bloating, heartburn, muscle pain, and skin flushing. Those on Metformin may also experience severe side effects like rashes and chest pain.
Which is Better?
Metformin is taken once or twice a day, with or without meals, depending on your doctor’s instructions. It is the best option if you prefer pills over other forms of medication. In contrast, Ozempic is available as a weekly injection to be administered. Ozempic can be the best option if you don’t mind injections and don’t want the hassle of taking medication every day. Your preferences will determine the easiness, and it depends on your condition.
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