Frequently asked questions
What is semagard and how does it help manage type 2 diabetes?
Semagard is a semaglutide generic medication that mimics the natural GLP-1 hormone in your body. It helps manage type 2 diabetes by stimulating the pancreas to secrete insulin, blocking the secretion of glucagon by the pancreas, slowing down stomach emptying, and affecting the hunger and satiety centre in the brain to lower appetite. These actions collectively lead to better glucose control.
How is semagard different from other semaglutide medications?
Semagard is a semaglutide generic. This means it contains the same active ingredient and is bioequivalent, and therefore as effective, as the original brand-name semaglutide product. Generic medications typically become available and more affordable once the patent on the original product has expired.
What are the main benefits I can expect from using Semagard?
Who can use semagard, and are there any conditions that prevent its use?
Semagard is indicated for adults aged 18 years and older who are living with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It should NOT be used in people with Type 1 diabetes, individuals with a personal or family history of thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), pregnant or breastfeeding women, or those with uncontrolled diabetic retinopathy.
What are the common side effects of Semagard?
The most frequently reported side effects of Semagard are gastrointestinal, including nausea, diarrhoea, and vomiting. Other possible gastrointestinal symptoms are abdominal pain and bloating, constipation, acid reflux, burping, flatulence, and gallstones. Dizziness and fatigue are also common side effects.
Are there any serious safety concerns I should be aware of with semagard?
In animal studies, semaglutide caused dose-dependent thyroid C-cell tumours, though it is unknown if this occurs in humans. Semagard is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or MEN 2. Acute pancreatitis has also been reported with semaglutide use. You should immediately alert your healthcare professional if you experience symptoms like a neck mass, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, persistent hoarse voice, sudden intense upper abdominal pain, or changes in eyesight.
How do I administer Semagard? And how much?
Semagard is administered as a subcutaneous injection (into the fat tissue just under the skin) once a week.
The typical starting dose is 0,25 mg once-weekly for the first 4 weeks to allow your body to adjust and limit side effects. After this, your doctor may increase the dose to 0,5 mg once-weekly. If further blood sugar control is needed after another month, the dose might be increased to 1 mg once a week.
Where on my body can I inject semagard?
Semagard can be injected into the fatty tissue just under the skin in your upper arm, stomach (front part of your waist), or front part of thigh.
Always ensure the injection site has healthy skin, free from redness, swelling, scarring, bruising, or broken skin.
What Can I Expect If I Switch From The Originator Product To Semagard?
What lifestyle changes should I make?
Increase your knowledge
(about the condition
and its management)
Follow a healthy balanced diet
(e.g. Mediterranean diet or
diabetes plate-method)
Make time for regular physical exercise
(at least 150 minutes of moderate activity/75 minutes of vigorous activity per week + resistance training 2-3 times per week)
Where can I find support and resources for living with diabetes in South Africa?
Several organisations in South Africa offer valuable support and resources for people living with diabetes. These include Diabetes South Africa (diabetessa.org.za), Sweet Life Diabetes Community (sweetlife.org.za), Youth with Diabetes (youthwithdiabetes.com), SA Diabetes Advocacy (diabetesadvocacy.org.za), Living GREAT with Diabetes at Stellenbosch University (great.sun.ac.za), The Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology (cdediabetes.co.za), and The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (heartfoundation.co.za).
Disclaimer: This page provides general guidance on the use, storage, and safety of the product for the patients who have been prescribed this medicine by a registered medical practitioner. This shall neither be construed as a Promotional Activity nor constitute as medical advice. Since, this is solely for educational purposes, the contents hereof shall not be relied upon as a substitute for professional consultation. Anyone accessing this website shall be bound by these terms and the Company shall bear no responsibility or liability for any use of the product without a valid prescription or for any misuse arising from non adherence to prescribed instructions. Users must follow the directions provided in the Patient Information Leaflet and the advice of their treating Registered Medical Practitioner.
