What is the average retail cost for a one-month supply of Ozempic?

Where can I find Ozempic (semaglutide) for less?

How can QuickMD offer such low prices?

Finding Ozempic for less: final thoughts

Doctors recommend increasing certain vitamins and minerals while you are pregnant. But is vitamin E one of them? Is vitamin E safe during pregnancy?

Should pregnant women take vitamin E supplements?

According to a 2015 analysis of studies reported in a Cochrane analysis, taking vitamin E while pregnant may not be a good idea. The Cochrane analysis included 17 trials with about 22,000 patients. It was found that pregnant women taking vitamin E showed no improvement in their rates of:

• Stillbirth
• Death of infants during the first 28 days
• Intrauterine slowed growth
• Premature birth
• Preeclampsia – high blood pressure, water retention, swelling, risk of convulsions
• Placental abruption – premature separation of the placenta from the uterus

Women taking vitamin E supplements had an increased risk of premature rupture of membranes. In other words, their water broke early, which can lead to infection, premature labor, and fetal distress. No benefits from vitamin E supplements were seen, and only possible risk was found. Similar caution can apply to some prescription medications during pregnancy, so if you take a GLP-1 it may help to review whether Ozempic is safe during pregnancy.

What is the current guidance for vitamins during pregnancy?

Current guidance from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) lists the following vitamins and minerals as important for a healthy pregnancy:

• Calcium
• Iron
• Iodine
• Choline
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin B6
• Vitamin B12
• Folic acid

ACOG does not list vitamin E in its “Key Vitamins and Minerals During Pregnancy,” meaning it is not a vitamin you need more of while pregnant. This is because most pregnant women get plenty of vitamin E from a balanced diet, and there is no evidence to suggest that additional supplementation is beneficial. This reflects a broader principle when considering whether multivitamin supplements are beneficial: a balanced diet is typically the preferred source of nutrients when nutritional needs are already being met.

Is a vitamin E supplement recommended for American women?

While vitamin E supplements may still benefit women with a vitamin E deficit or in women in developing countries who may be malnourished, it is not recommended for most American women during pregnancy. Instead, eating a balanced diet will provide the vitamin E you and your baby need, putting you in control of your health and your baby’s health.

Get Professional Advice with QuickMD

For personalized medical advice on vitamin intake during pregnancy, QuickMD’s telemedicine urgent care services are here to provide you with the reassurance and confidence you need. Consult with a QuickMD provider today to ensure a healthy pregnancy.

Get the right vitamins and minerals to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Visit QuickMD today to schedule your telemedicine appointment and get expert guidance on your prenatal nutrition needs.

If you’ve been considering taking medication to aid your weight loss efforts, one of the most common names you’ve heard is Ozempic®. Ozempic (semaglutide) has shown a promising weight loss potential, but like any medication, it may have side effects, most of which affect the digestive system. The good news is that most common Ozempic side effects are mild and diminish over time as your body adjusts to the medication.

Whether you’re considering this treatment or just starting it now, understanding what  side effects you might see and how to manage them can help you stay more comfortable and confident on your weight loss journey. 

What is Ozempic?

Before we dig into side effects, it’s helpful to first understand more about Ozempic and how it works. 

Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide, a medication originally approved to help people with Type 2 diabetes manage blood sugar. It belongs to a class called GLP‑1 receptor agonists. These medications mimic a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP‑1) that plays a key role in regulating your blood sugar and metabolism. 

What does that mean in practice?

• They help your pancreas release insulin when needed
• They slow digestion slightly, which can reduce appetite
• You may feel fuller longer and eat less
  
  

That’s why semaglutide is now also used off‑label or in related formulations for weight management. 

Ozempic side effects 

Like any medication, Ozempic has side effects. In many cases, these side effects can be managed, and the weight loss benefits can outweigh the temporary discomfort. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide. To make the right call, it’s important to have an honest discussion with your provider based on your personal and family medical history, and where you’re at now. For instance, if you’re pregnant or trying to get pregnant in the near future, it’s not recommended that you take Ozempic during pregnancy. 

Some side effects are common and manageable. Others are rare but important to watch for. Many people find that the side effects are strongest when they first begin the medication and then taper off. You may quickly adjust to the GLP-1 side effects as you continue taking the medication, but it can still help to know what to expect. 

Most common

Some side effects are more frequently reported, especially when people first start taking Ozempic. Knowing what triggers them and how to reduce their impact can help you better understand what’s going on and stick with your medication. 

Nausea and vomiting

You know it when you feel it: that queasy, unsettled feeling in your stomach that sometimes results in actual vomiting. This side effect can occur especially after meals or when taking a higher dose. Ozempic can heighten these symptoms by slowing digestion and amplifying fullness signals. You can reduce these feelings by eating slowly and avoiding fried, greasy, or sweet foods. Another technique is to stop eating when you feel about 80% full, and try calming options like ginger tea or bland, easy-to-digest foods (like rice, toast, or bananas). If you continue to feel nauseous, your provider may recommend adjusting your dose or timing.

Constipation

You might notice fewer bowel movements, hard or dry stools, bloating, or that uncomfortable “backed-up” feeling. Ozempic slows down how quickly food moves through your digestive system, which can also slow bowel movements. This is especially true if you’re not drinking enough water or eating enough fiber. Stay well-hydrated, add more fiber-rich foods (like berries, beans, or oats), and move your body with gentle walks. If things still feel sluggish, talk to your provider about adding a stool softener or fiber supplement.

Diarrhea

Another commonly reported side effect of Ozempic is loose or watery stools that may come on quickly or repeatedly throughout the day. You might also feel mild cramping. This is normal when you first start Ozempic or increase your dose due to how the medication changes how your body absorbs nutrients and digests food. To ease these effects, eat smaller, more frequent meals and avoid greasy or overly rich foods. Staying hydrated is key, especially with fluids that have electrolytes.

Indigestion

You might experience a heavy, uncomfortable feeling in your upper stomach after eating. It may come with bloating, slight nausea, or a feeling of fullness that lingers.
Eating too quickly, large meals, high-fat or spicy foods, or lying down soon after eating can be a trigger. Ozempic slows digestion, so food sits in your stomach longer, which can worsen this. Try smaller, more frequent meals and eat slowly. Stick with lighter foods that are easier to digest, and wait at least 1–2 hours after eating before lying down.

Acid reflux

Sometimes called heartburn, you might feel a burning sensation in your chest or throat that can worsen when you lie down or bend over. This is a result of your stomach emptying more slowly when taking Ozempic, which can allow acid to rise more easily. Avoid greasy or acidic foods, eat earlier in the evening, and stay upright for a few hours after eating to help ward off acid reflux. 

Flatulence (gas)

This side effect can be embarrassing or uncomfortable, especially after meals. You might feel pressure in your belly or find yourself excessively passing gas. This happens due to Ozempic’s ability to slow your digestion. As a result, it allows for more fermentation in the gut. You can lessen this side effect by introducing fiber-rich foods gradually after you start on Ozempic. Avoid carbonated drinks and limit artificial sweeteners. Taking a walk after meals may also help stimulate digestion and move gas along.

Burping

Another embarrassing side effect. You might find yourself frequently belching. Your burps might also be accompanied by a sour taste if acid reflux is present, too. This is triggered by swallowing air while eating or drinking too fast. To feel less gassy, eat slowly, avoid carbonated drinks and chewing gum, and skip drinking through a straw. Ginger tea or a bit of warm lemon water can help ease the buildup of air in the stomach.

Less common

Other less common side effects include:

Unusual hunger

Some people taking Ozempic notice swings in hunger signals, especially as their body adjusts to the medication. You might feel unusually hungry, as your appetite triggers can be affected by the medication. It can take a few days for the medication to build up in your body enough to get the appetite-suppressing results you want. These appetite fluctuations usually stabilize.

Severe diarrhea

In rare cases, nausea or diarrhea may become intense, leading to stomach pain, dehydration, or electrolyte disturbances. You might even experience stomach pains and chills. If symptoms worsen or persist, that’s a red flag to contact your provider.

Bloating

Feeling bloated or overly full is a relatively minor side effect and is usually tied to how Ozempic slows digestion. While uncomfortable, it typically improves as your body adjusts. If it’s severe or painful, talk to your provider about possible food triggers or timing adjustments.

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)

This is more likely if you’re also using other glucose‑lowering medications. Symptoms can include: 

• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Pale skin
• Clumsiness or feeling shaky
• Sweating
• Confusion

Make sure to eat regularly and monitor these symptoms closely. If you feel faint, confused, or unsteady on your feet, seek medical attention immediately.

Abdominal pain that extends to the back

Pain that radiates from your stomach to your back can also be linked to pancreatitis, or, less commonly, gallbladder problems. This symptom deserves urgent evaluation, especially if it doesn’t go away or worsens.

Fever

A low-grade fever could stem from a minor illness, but if it happens alongside nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or fatigue, it may be tied to pancreatitis or an infection. If fever is persistent or paired with other GI symptoms, call your provider promptly.

Allergic reactions / swelling: 

Some people may develop swelling in the face, lips, feet, or throat, or have difficulty breathing. These warrant immediate medical attention. 

Rash, redness, or itching

You might notice mild redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site. This usually goes away on its own. However, widespread rash, hives, or facial swelling can indicate an allergic reaction. If you experience difficulty breathing or have swelling in the face or throat or a spreading rash, this is a medical emergency, and you should call 911. 

Severe side effects to watch out for

While it’s normal to experience side effects with any new medication you start, there are some side effects that are not normal. These severe side effects of Ozempic are rare, but it’s important to know when to take immediate action. 

Pancreatitis

Severe stomach pain that comes on suddenly and may extend to your back can be a sign of pancreatitis, a rare but serious side effect of GLP-1 medications. You may also feel nauseated or vomit frequently. If you feel sharp, persistent upper abdominal pain (especially with vomiting or fever), seek emergency care right away.

Kidney issues

Because nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea can lead to dehydration, there’s a risk of kidney injury if fluids aren’t replaced. Stay hydrated and report any unusual swelling or changes in urination.

Thyroid issues

Ozempic carries a boxed warning about the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors in rodents. It’s not confirmed whether this applies to humans, but people with a personal or family history of specific cancers, including thyroid cancers, should consult with a provider first before using Ozempic. 

If you notice any side effects while using Ozempic, it’s crucial to report them to your medical provider before your next dose. This proactive step can help ensure your health and safety during your weight loss journey. You should also report Ozempic safety or side effect issues to the FDA by visiting www.fda.gov/medwatch or calling 1-800-FDA-1088.

In an emergency, call 911 for assistance or go directly to your nearest ER.

Long-term vs. short-term side effects

So, how long do Ozempic side effects last? Some only last until your body gets used to the medication, while long-term Ozempic side effects could linger for months. 

Short-term side effects (nausea, loose stools, fullness) often improve as your body attunes, typically within a few weeks.

Longer-term effects depend on dose, duration, and individual factors. Some side effects may linger or emerge later, like gallbladder issues, changes in kidney function, or concerns associated with the medication’s thyroid warning. 

Ozempic side effects in males vs. females 

When you’re managing side effects, it can help to understand whether your gender might influence what you experience. But it’s equally important to know that, in many cases, side effects depend more on dose, health status, genetics, and how your body attunes to the medication than gender alone. 

Everyone’s body responds a little differently to treatment. Your personal experience matters. If you’re having a tough time with side effects, you’re not alone.

Ozempic side effects in men

Men tend to report gastrointestinal effects like:

• Indigestion
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Occasional low blood sugar
• Heartburn. 

Some clinical and real‑world data suggest that, overall, side effects occur less frequently or with less severity in men than women for GLP‑1 drugs. For example, one review paper notes that in preclinical and some clinical settings, the side effects tend to be less intense in men than in women. 

Ozempic side effects in females

Women taking Ozempic might experience:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Low blood sugar
• Nausea
• Constipation
  

Some studies show that women are more likely to discontinue treatment because of these side effects. It’s important to note that very few trials are designed to specifically test how side effects differ between men and women taking the medication. 

From what we do know, researchers have found that women may have more of something called GLP‑1 receptors in the parts of the brain that make you feel sick to your stomach. These receptors act like “docking stations” for the medication. When more of them are activated, it can lead to stronger feelings of nausea or queasiness.

Also, when women take GLP‑1 medications like Ozempic, the amount of medicine that stays in their blood tends to be higher than it is for men, even when they weigh the same. That means their bodies may feel stronger effects from the same dose, which could explain why some women experience more side effects.

How to manage side effects from Ozempic 

It’s perfectly normal to experience side effects with Ozempic. Symptoms for most people usually get better over time. Your body is adjusting to something new. Here’s how you can give it a little extra support:

• Talk with your provider. If any symptoms feel like they’re too much for you, adjusting the dose or timing may help. Your provider is there to listen and make any adjustments needed to help you feel better and continue on your weight loss journey. 
• Stay hydrated. Be sure to drink plenty of water. This is especially important if you experience vomiting or diarrhea, to replenish any lost fluids and electrolytes. 
• Choose gentle foods. Bland, easy-to-digest meals can reduce nausea or upset stomach. 
• Limit known triggers. Spicy or fatty foods may worsen side effects.
• Keep track of your symptoms. Write down the time, severity, and what you were doing when your symptoms hit. This will help your provider fine-tune your plan.
  

Side effects are a normal part of many medication journeys. With open communication, small adjustments, and flexibility, many people find that the benefits outweigh any downsides.

If you ever feel unsure, notice severe symptoms, or wonder whether this medication is still right for you, don’t wait. Our providers are ready to speak with you, adjust your plan, and support you along the way.

 Interested in Ozempic for weight loss?

If Ozempic is right for you, we can make getting started simple. With a QuickMD telemedicine visit, you can talk to a licensed provider about your weight loss options without leaving home. It’s private, convenient, and designed to give you more control over your health, on your schedule.

Get professional advice with QuickMD

Thinking about Ozempic for weight loss? Our telemedicine providers are here to help you understand how it works, what side effects to expect, and whether it’s the right choice for you. If it’s a good fit, we can prescribe Ozempic for you safely and conveniently, all online.

Ozempic Safety Concerns and Studies

Risks of Taking Ozempic During Pregnancy

• Low Birth Weight: Weight loss during pregnancy can lead to low birth weight, associated with various health complications for the baby.
• Poor Fetal Development: Animal studies have indicated poor growth and development in fetuses exposed to Ozempic.
• Potential Unknown Risks: As Ozempic has not been extensively studied in pregnant women, additional unknown risks could affect both the mother and the fetus.

Pregnancy and Ozempic: Recommendations for Women

Ozempic: FDA Monitoring

Get Professional Advice on Ozempic with QuickMD

Schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder share some symptoms, but they are distinct conditions. So, what differentiates schizophrenia vs. schizoaffective disorder? In this article, we’ll discuss the differences between them, how each is treated, and how QuickMD’s telemedicine services may help you.

What is schizophrenia?

Contrary to popular belief, schizophrenia is not a multiple personality disorder. The “split” in schizophrenia refers to a split from reality.

Schizophrenic patients frequently experience hallucinations and illogical beliefs. Paranoia may play a part, such as a student feeling that a professor is personally referring to them in lectures. Delusions of grandeur are another symptom, like insisting they are a famous rock star incognito.

Common symptoms of schizophrenia:

• Hallucinations: Hearing voices is the most common type of hallucination, often starting as harmless but progressing to dangerous commands. Seeing things that aren’t there is also common.
• Disorganized thinking: Difficulty speaking or answering questions meaningfully, often resulting in disorganized speech with puns, rhymes, or free association.
• Disorganized behavior: Bizarre acts like holding unusual postures or inappropriate actions in public.
• Negative symptoms: Inability to find pleasure in activities (anhedonia), lack of facial expression (flat affect), or inability to perform daily activities competently.

What is schizoaffective disorder?

Schizoaffective disorder is a combination of schizophrenia and an affective (mood) disorder involving emotions such as depression or mania. Patients may exhibit symptoms of bizarre behavior alongside episodes of depression or abnormal happiness and energy.

Common symptoms of schizoaffective disorder:

• Psychotic symptoms: Similar to those of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and delusions.
• Mood symptoms: Episodes of depression or manic behavior characterized by extreme happiness, energy, or irritability.

How are schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder treated?

Here are common ways to treat schizophrenia vs. schizoaffective disorder.

Schizophrenia Treatments

Antipsychotic drugs are prescribed for schizophrenia. Common medications include:

• Abilify (aripiprazole)
• Saphris (asenapine)
• Rexulti (brexpiprazole)
• Vraylar (cariprazine)
• Clozaril (clozapine)
• Fanapt (iloperidone)
• Latuda (lurasidone)
• Zyprexa (olanzapine)
• Invega (paliperidone)
• Seroquel (quetiapine)
• Risperdal (risperidone)
• Geodon (ziprasidone)

Schizoaffective Disorder Treatments

Several types of medication are prescribed for schizoaffective disorder:

• Antipsychotic drugs: Invega (paliperidone) is FDA-approved for treating schizoaffective disorder and works by blocking serotonin and dopamine
• Other medications: Antidepressants and mood stabilizers as needed
• Therapies: Psychotherapy, life skills training, and electroconvulsive therapy

Can psychiatric medication be prescribed online?

Yes, QuickMD can help you manage schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder remotely. To receive counseling and get a refill of your psychiatric medications, talk with a QuickMD provider.

Get professional advice with QuickMD

For personalized medical advice and treatment for schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, QuickMD’s telemedicine urgent care services are here to help. Consult with a QuickMD provider today to manage your condition effectively.

Manage your mental health with ease. Visit QuickMD to schedule your telemedicine appointment and get expert guidance on managing schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder.

Is mental health advice on TikTok accurate?

Are TikTok influencers qualified to give mental health advice?

Is TikTok advice dangerous?

Where can I find trusted mental healthcare online?

Most Common Wegovy Side Effects

• Indigestion
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Gastroesophageal reflux (rising stomach acid)
• Burping
• Flatulence (gas)

Less Common Wegovy Side Effects

• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas. Signs and symptoms include abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, nausea and vomiting, fever, and bloating.
• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar, particularly in patients also taking diabetes medication. Symptoms include blurred vision, dizziness, shakiness, poor coordination, abnormal hunger or thirst, paleness, chills, or sweating.
• Allergic Reactions: Signs and symptoms can include rash, redness, itching, swelling of eyelids, face, hands, and feet, or difficulty breathing.

Wegovy and Blood Sugar

Allergic Reactions

What to Do If You Experience Side Effects

Interested in Wegovy for Weight Loss?

Get Professional Advice with QuickMD

What Does Wegovy Cost in the US?

How Can I Get Wegovy for Less?

Ready to Try Semaglutide for Weight Loss?

Get Professional Advice with QuickMD

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition where harmful gut bacteria overpower the beneficial ones, leading to bloating and other discomfort. If not addressed promptly, SIBO can escalate to dehydration and malnutrition, underscoring the significance of early diagnosis and treatment.

How to Treat Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth

This condition is often treated with the following antibiotics to kill the harmful bacteria:

• Amoxicillin/clavulanate
• Metronidazole and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim)
• Metronidazole plus cephalexin
• Ciprofloxacin
• Norfloxacin
• Rifaximin

Probiotics are another method of treatment. These consist of helpful bacteria given orally. Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidus infantis, and Bifidus lactis are frequently prescribed.

Supplemental vitamins and minerals treat nutritional deficiency. Vitamin B12 is often injected, and Vitamins A, D, and E, along with calcium and iron, can be given orally.

How Can I Get a Prescription for Antibiotics?

Antibiotics are available with a prescription from a physician or other licensed prescriber. QuickMD can prescribe the antibiotics mentioned above when medically appropriate. Contact QuickMD today to schedule a telemedicine visit.

Get Professional Advice with QuickMD

QuickMD’s telemedicine urgent care services are a reliable and accessible resource for personalized medical advice and treatment for SIBO. By consulting with a QuickMD provider, you can ensure you’re receiving the most appropriate treatment and effectively managing your symptoms, all from the comfort of your home.

Need treatment for SIBO? Visit QuickMD today to schedule your telemedicine appointment and get expert guidance on managing small intestinal bacterial overgrowth safely and effectively.

Why Do Diabetic Ulcers Occur?

How Can You Prevent Diabetic Ulcers?

• Control Blood Sugar Levels: Maintain an HbA1c level under 7.0 or as your physician recommends. HbA1c is a measure of your average blood sugar levels over the past three months. Keeping it under control is crucial in preventing complications such as diabetic ulcers.
• Manage Weight: Keep your weight under control to reduce pressure on your feet.
• Wear Proper Footwear: Always wear well-fitting shoes, including slippers at home. Avoid pantyhose, high heels, or flip-flops.
• Inspect your feet daily. Look for cuts, cracks, blisters, or redness, and report any abnormalities to your physician without delay.
• Proper Toenail Care: Trim toenails straight across or trim them by a podiatrist.
• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: These can impair circulation and healing.
• Maintain Cholesterol Levels: Keep cholesterol within normal limits.
• Foot Hygiene: Wash your feet at least once a day, dry them carefully, and use a moisturizer.

How Do You Treat Diabetic Ulcers?

• Early Diagnosis and Treatment: This is not just crucial, it’s your power to effective management. By detecting and addressing diabetic ulcers early, you can take control of your health and prevent complications.
• Good Blood Sugar Control: This is not just essential, it’s your shield against infection. By maintaining your blood sugar within the recommended range, you can significantly reduce the risk of infection in diabetic ulcers.
• Debridement: Removal of dead tissue by an expert or under guidance.
• Proper Dressings: Use dressings that create a clean, moist environment, allowing tissues to drain while healing.
• Antibiotics: Sometimes prescribed to prevent or treat infections.
• Offloading: A cast or special footwear to take pressure off the wound while it heals.
• Regular Check-Ups: These are mandatory to ensure the wound is healing as expected and to detect any signs of infection or other complications early. Your healthcare provider will schedule these check-ups based on the severity of your ulcer and your overall health.

Get Professional Advice with QuickMD