What you 'must' tell your GP if you're planning to start Ozempic and other medications

When starting a new medication like Ozempic, which is prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes but has also become common for those looking to lose weight, full transparency with your doctor is crucial, according to experts from a pharmacy. They said the medication can be highly effective in controlling blood sugar levels.

However, they cautioned that its success "largely depends on the patient's open communication with their healthcare provider". Bisonpharmacy.com has explained why being fully honest and transparent with your doctor is essential and detailed the key pieces of information you should disclose.

Medical history

Your complete medical history provides the foundation for safe and effective treatment. This includes any chronic conditions, past surgeries, allergies, and family medical history. Ozempic can interact with various medical conditions and understanding your full health picture helps your doctor make informed decisions about your treatment plan.

Why it matters

Without a comprehensive view of your medical history, your doctor might overlook critical factors that could affect how Ozempic works for you. For example, a history of pancreatitis could be a contraindication for Ozempic, as the medication could exacerbate the condition.

Current medications

Disclosing all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies, is vital. Some medications can interact with Ozempic, leading to adverse effects or reduced efficacy. Your doctor needs to know everything you’re taking to avoid harmful interactions.

Why it matters

Combining Ozempic with certain medications without your doctor’s knowledge can lead to unexpected side effects or diminish the effectiveness of your diabetes management. For instance, other medications that lower blood sugar levels can increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with Ozempic.

Dietary habits

Your eating habits can significantly influence how well Ozempic controls your blood sugar levels. Providing details about your typical diet, including meal timing, portion sizes, and types of foods you regularly consume, allows your doctor to tailor advice and recommendations that align with your lifestyle.

Why it matters

Without understanding your dietary habits, your doctor cannot offer personalized nutritional advice that works in tandem with your medication. Poor dietary choices can counteract the benefits of Ozempic, making it harder to achieve desired blood sugar control.

Personal goals for treatment

Communicating your personal goals, such as weight loss targets, blood sugar level objectives, or overall health improvements, helps your doctor develop a treatment plan that aligns with your expectations. This shared understanding fosters a collaborative approach to managing your diabetes.

Why it matters

Without knowing your goals, your doctor may focus on different aspects of your treatment that don't necessarily align with what you hope to achieve. Clear goals help in setting realistic expectations and milestones, ensuring that your treatment journey is both satisfying and effective.

A spokesperson for Bison Pharmacy said: “Honesty is the best policy when it comes to healthcare. Patients need to trust that their doctors are there to help them, and that requires sharing all relevant information, no matter how insignificant it might seem.”