Can Ozempic (semaglutide) cause tingling in the face?

From the Guidelines

Yes, Ozempic (semaglutide) can potentially cause tingling sensations in the face, although this is not among its most commonly reported side effects. Facial tingling may be related to the medication's effects on the nervous system or could potentially indicate a more serious reaction. If you experience facial tingling while taking Ozempic, you should contact your healthcare provider, especially if it's accompanied by other symptoms like swelling, difficulty breathing, or severe dizziness, as these could indicate an allergic reaction requiring immediate medical attention. According to the most recent evidence 1, Ozempic is typically prescribed at starting doses of 0.25 mg once weekly for 4 weeks, then increased to 0.5 mg weekly, with possible further increases to 1 mg or 2 mg weekly for maximum effectiveness in managing blood sugar levels. The tingling sensation might be temporary as your body adjusts to the medication, but persistent or worsening symptoms should never be ignored. The mechanism behind this side effect may involve the medication's impact on peripheral nerves or could be related to changes in blood glucose levels affecting nerve function. Some key points to consider when taking Ozempic include:

• Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing as needed and tolerated
• Monitoring for signs of allergic reactions or other serious side effects
• Being aware of the potential for gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea or vomiting
• Understanding the importance of gradual dose titration to minimize adverse effects, as recommended by recent guidelines 1
• Recognizing that while facial tingling is not a commonly reported side effect, it is essential to report any unusual symptoms to a healthcare provider. Given the potential benefits of Ozempic in managing blood sugar levels and its relatively favorable side effect profile compared to other medications, it is crucial to weigh the benefits against the risks and discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider 1. Ultimately, the decision to use Ozempic should be made under the guidance of a healthcare professional, considering individual patient factors and the most current evidence available 1.

From the Research

Ozempic and Tingling in the Face

There is limited research directly addressing the question of whether Ozempic (semaglutide) can cause tingling in the face. However, some studies provide insight into potential side effects and reactions associated with semaglutide:

• Dermal Hypersensitivity Reactions: A study published in 2023 2 reported two cases of dermal hypersensitivity reactions in patients taking semaglutide for type II diabetes. While these reactions were not specifically described as causing tingling in the face, they do indicate that semaglutide can cause skin-related adverse effects.
• Allodynia (Skin Tenderness): A case series published in 2025 3 described four cases of allodynia (skin tenderness) associated with semaglutide. Although this study focused on skin tenderness rather than tingling, it suggests that semaglutide can cause unusual skin sensations.
• Natural Weight Loss or "Ozempic Face": A article published in 2024 4 discussed the social media phenomenon of "Ozempic face," which refers to the rapid facial weight loss associated with semaglutide. While this article did not specifically mention tingling in the face, it highlights the potential for semaglutide to cause significant changes in facial appearance.
• Systematic Review and Adverse Effects: A protocol for a systematic review published in 2024 5 aimed to investigate the adverse effects of semaglutide for all patient groups. Although this study has not yet reported its findings, it may provide valuable insights into the potential side effects of semaglutide, including any neurological or dermatological effects.
• Effects on Chronic Kidney Disease: A study published in 2024 6 examined the effects of semaglutide on chronic kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes. While this study focused on kidney outcomes, it reported a lower percentage of serious adverse events in the semaglutide group compared to the placebo group, suggesting that semaglutide may have a favorable safety profile. However, it did not specifically address the question of tingling in the face.

Key Points to Consider

• Semaglutide has been associated with dermal hypersensitivity reactions and allodynia (skin tenderness) in some cases.
• The phenomenon of "Ozempic face" highlights the potential for semaglutide to cause significant changes in facial appearance.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the potential side effects of semaglutide, including any neurological or dermatological effects.