-MoH advocates safe use and medical supervision

A generic version of Ozempic, the increasingly popular diabetes medication now widely used for weight loss, could soon become available in Guyana. And as interest in the medication grows, Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony urges caution, sharing important health guidance on the proper use of Ozempic and warning against misuse.

Ozempic, which contains the active ingredient semaglutide, is a medication primarily used to treat adults with type 2 diabetes whose condition is not adequately controlled through diet and exercise alone. 

Ozempic is an injectable medication in pre-filled pens and is administered under the skin in areas such as the abdomen, thigh, and upper arm. In recent years, it has gained popularity as a weight loss aid, with many people using the medication as part of obesity management strategies. Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony said the generic version of Ozempic is currently being processed for approval and is expected to become available soon.

“But it requires proper medical use and it must be under medical supervision because without that then people can misuse it and it can become a problem for them. So, in Guyana, for the medicine itself, very soon, I would say maybe in another two months or so, the generic version of Ozempic would be made available on the local market,” he said.

The Minister stressed the importance of proper medical guidance when using Ozempic, particularly as demand grows for both diabetes management and weight loss. 

“So this is not a non-prescription item.You have to get a prescription, you have to, somebody got to supervise your care, and I think people should stick to what these medications were intended for. And if we do that, then we’ll get the right benefit of the medication,” the minister said.

Dr. Anthony says the Ministry will be monitoring the use of Ozempic when it comes to Guyana. Ozempic affects the digestive system and could cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. 

A less common but more serious risk is worsening of diabetic retinopathy, which may affect up to 1 in 10 people. Despite these risks, Ozempic has been shown to reduce additional complications such as heart attack and stroke.

Health regulators say the overall safety is similar to other drugs in its class, with manageable side effects, while eye-related risks continue to be monitored.