Ozempic, a diabetes medication also known for its weight loss effects, is facing scrutiny due to reported adverse side effects. Some users have developed a condition known as stomach paralysis or gastroparesis, believed to be linked to the drug. Recently, a patient has come forward with a report of experiencing “burning pain,” leading her doctor to advise immediate discontinuation of Ozempic.
A Texas woman’s journey with Ozempic began for her type 2 diabetes management.
Maria E. Rosas, MD, a Texas-based professor, shared her experience with Newsweek on September 30. Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes twenty years ago, Rosas, originally from Mexico, switched to Ozempic after facing gastrointestinal issues with metformin, another diabetes medication.
Rosas opted for Ozempic in April 2023, drawn to its once-a-week injection schedule and the prospect of reducing her daily medication intake. Initially, she saw positive results with stable glucose levels, but soon, her experience took a distressing turn.
Rosas experienced intense, burning pain across her body.
Initially, Rosas experienced mild depression after starting Ozempic, which subsided. However, she soon faced a severe, burning pain in her back, shoulders, and arms. Initially suspecting post-COVID neuropathy, her symptoms worsened over time.
By August, she reported a severe burning sensation in her genital area and buttocks, accompanied by skin peeling. The severity of the burns was alarming, resembling prolonged sun exposure. Upon consultation, her doctor immediately recommended stopping Ozempic, citing less known side effects like rashes, itching, or hives.
Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic, emphasized their commitment to patient safety and continuous monitoring of their medication’s safety profile in collaboration with the FDA. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation.
Rosas reported her severe reactions to both the Ozempic hotline and the FDA.
After recognizing the abnormality of her side effects, Rosas reported them to the Ozempic hotline and the FDA. Her online research revealed that Ozempic could cause hives and rashes, among other side effects. Novo Nordisk’s Medication Guide for Ozempic lists severe rash or itching as a sign of a serious allergic reaction, advising against its use in such cases.
Though Rosas stopped using Ozempic and began to heal, she still experiences a residual burning sensation. Her last Ozempic injection was on September 5. The affected area is healing but remains sensitive, particularly during urination or defecation.
Currently, Rosas is not on any diabetes medication.
Rosas concluded her account by stating that she is not taking any diabetes medication at the moment but plans to start a new treatment in the near future. She is focusing on healing and managing her glucose levels through diet. Despite the initial benefits of Ozempic, she recounted moments of fearing for her life due to the extreme physical reactions.
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