Can Ozempic (semaglutide) be administered at 8 PM?

Administering Ozempic at 8 PM

Yes, Ozempic (semaglutide) can be administered at 8 PM as it can be taken at any time of day, with or without meals, as long as you maintain a consistent weekly schedule. 1

Administration Timing Guidelines

• Ozempic should be administered once weekly, on the same day each week 1
• The injection can be given at any time of day, regardless of meals 1
• The most important factor is consistency in the day of the week, not the specific time of day 1
• If changing your weekly administration day, ensure at least 48 hours (2 days) between doses 1

Proper Administration Technique

• Administer Ozempic subcutaneously to the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm 1
• Use a different injection site each week when injecting in the same body region to reduce injection site reactions 1
• Inspect the medication before use - it should appear clear and colorless 1
• If also using insulin, administer as separate injections (never mix the products) 1

Missed Dose Protocol

• If a dose is missed, administer Ozempic as soon as possible within 5 days after the missed dose 1
• If more than 5 days have passed, skip the missed dose and administer the next dose on the regularly scheduled day 1
• After handling a missed dose, resume the regular once-weekly dosing schedule 1

Special Considerations

• For patients with diabetes who are fasting, GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic have a low risk of hypoglycemia and can be taken at the main mealtime 2
• For once-weekly GLP-1 RAs like Ozempic, no change in timing is needed during fasting periods 2
• Patients may experience gastrointestinal side effects, particularly during the initial titration period, including nausea and vomiting 2, 3
• Elderly patients should be monitored more closely for GI side effects, as these medications may not be preferred in older adults experiencing unexplained weight loss or recurrent gastrointestinal problems 2

Potential Side Effects to Monitor

• Transient nausea and vomiting are common side effects, especially during initial titration 2, 3
• These GI effects can be minimized by starting with the lowest dose and up-titrating gradually 2
• Semaglutide may be associated with delayed gastric emptying, which could affect the absorption of some oral medications 2, 4
• Patients with a history of diabetic retinopathy should be monitored closely, as rapid glycemic improvement may temporarily worsen retinopathy 2, 5

Remember that maintaining a consistent weekly schedule is more important than the specific time of day for administration. The 8 PM timing is perfectly acceptable as long as you continue to administer Ozempic at approximately the same time on your chosen day each week.