Ozempic’s New Approval in Canada: Ozempic Now Protects More Than Blood Sugar
Health Canada has just expanded the approval of Ozempic, a medication already widely used for type 2 diabetes. Beyond lowering blood sugar, Ozempic is now recognized for protecting the kidneys and the heart in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. This is a major step forward in diabetes care.
What’s New?
Ozempic is now the first-in-class GLP-1 drug approved in Canada to manage blood sugar, slow kidney decline, and reduce cardiovascular mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. (MedPath, Life Sciences Voice)
This approval equips healthcare providers with a powerful multi-target therapy for high-risk patients. (MedPath)
Why Does It Matter For Canadians?
Kidney and heart complications are major threats for people with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Around 40 % of Canadians with type 2 diabetes also have chronic kidney disease. (Reuters, Life Sciences Voice)
For Canadians managing type 2 diabetes, especially those with early signs of kidney stress or cardiovascular vulnerability, this approval offers new hope. It may help delay dialysis or transplants while also addressing heart risk. (kidney.ca, MedPath)
The international FLOW trial, involving over 3,500 patients across 28 countries (including Canada), showed Ozempic reduced the risk of kidney failure or major kidney deterioration by 24 %, and lowered cardiovascular death and cardiac events when added to standard care. (kidney.ca, MedPathLife Sciences Voice)
How It Works?
Ozempic mimics GLP-1, a gut-derived hormone that:
- Stimulates insulin release
- Regulates appetite and slows digestion
- Demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects and improves kidney and cardiovascular outcomes (Sinai HealthNews-Medical)
Safety and Considerations
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort. Serious though rare effects may include pancreatitis or gallbladder issues. (MedPath, Wikipedia)
Emerging data suggests possible risks of eye conditions (like macular degeneration) or joint issues, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring. (Wikipedia+1)
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting Ozempic, especially if you have existing eye or stomach conditions.
How Dundas West Pharmacy Can Help
- Medication reviews to assess if Ozempic could benefit you
- Support through initiation, training on injection technique, and monitoring side effects
- Collaboration with your healthcare team to track kidney function (eGFR, urine albumin) and cardiovascular markers
- Lifestyle advice to complement treatment—diet, exercise, hydration, smoking cessation
Visit Us Today!
This is a meaningful leap forward in diabetes care. Ozempic is now more than just a glucose-lowering tool. If you or a loved one have type 2 diabetes with kidney concerns or heart risk, Visit Dundas West Pharmacy or Call (416) 368 9143 about whether Ozempic fits your treatment plan.
