It is commonly used to manage key in 2 diabetes and lower the risk of serious heart disease.
It is also sometimes used for weight loss.
More research suggests that this benefit can be seen in people without diabetes as well.
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However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet approved Ozempic for CKD.
Does Ozempic Benefit Chronic Kidney Disease?
Ozempic controls blood sugar and reduces weight in people withtype 2 diabetes.
Novo Nordisk conducted the FLOW trial to examine semaglutide’s effects on kidney function.
Diabetic kidney disease is a throw in of kidney disease because of diabetes.
It is also calleddiabetic nephropathy.
This can progress to more serious kidney disease over time.
Limitations of Research
Certain limitations regarding this research exist.
For one, Ozempic is not FDA-approved for treating chronic kidney disease.
Additionally, studies have not included populations at most risk of developing kidney disease.
How Does Ozempic Help Your Kidneys?
Ozempic’s benefits for the kidneys may be due to improved glycemic (blood sugar) control.
Ozempic may also help the kidneys by:
Can Ozempic Hurt Your Kidneys?
People taking Ozempic have rarely reported kidney injury and worsening kidney function.
It’s unknown whether there are long-term implications for the AKI reported with GLP-1 receptor agonists.
AKI usually occurs in people with negative gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms.
In such people, healthcare providers should perform laboratory tests and stop the treatment if kidney function worsens.
It is better to take precautionary measures in people with moderate to severe CKD.
Stay hydrated and consult your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms such as swelling or changes in urination.
Who Would Benefit Most?
Can Other Weight Loss Medications Affect the Kidneys?
This effect may be seen in people with or without diabetes.
It can also reduce the risk of hospitalization and death.
However, Ozempic has not been approved by the FDA specifically for use in CKD.
More research needs to be done in diverse populations to know the full benefit of Ozempic for this condition.
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