You may have noticed a lot of headlines about medications like semaglutide injection (Ozempic) being prescribed for type 2 diabetes or weight loss. If you have type 1 diabetes, could this drug made for type 2 diabetes be a game-changer for you, too? As one myT1Dteam member asked, “Why can’t we take Ozempic to help us lose weight?”

This article will explain what semaglutide is, describe its typical uses, and discuss whether it’s safe and effective for people with type 1 diabetes.

What Is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide injection is in the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist class of medications. GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic the body’s GLP-1 hormone, which is involved in glucose (blood sugar) regulation and appetite control. The drugs are primarily used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes and to help with weight loss.

Ongoing research is looking into the full scope of benefits that GLP-1 receptor agonists may offer people with type 1 diabetes. Clinical trials — studies of a drug’s safety and effectiveness in people — are examining whether these medications can help improve overall glycemic control (healthy blood sugar levels) and reduce the need for high insulin doses, which is a common challenge in type 1 diabetes management. Insulin is a hormone that moves sugar from the blood into body tissues for energy.

Ozempic is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help lower blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes when used along with a diet and exercise program. It works by helping the pancreas, the gland that produces insulin, release the right amount of this hormone when blood sugar is high. Ozempic also slows the movement of food through the stomach, which may reduce appetite and help with weight loss. These effects on blood sugar and weight make this drug a valuable tool for managing type 2 diabetes.

The FDA approved another semaglutide injection, Wegovy, specifically for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight who have at least one condition related to having a higher body weight. Dulaglutide (Trulicity) and liraglutide (Victoza) are other medications in the same class, offering similar benefits in glucose control and weight management for people with type 2 diabetes.

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Type 1 Diabetes: Off-Label Use

Although GLP-1 receptor agonists aren’t approved for type 1 diabetes, some health care providers may consider prescribing these drugs off-label — outside their approved use — for people who need help with weight management or have insulin resistance.

For people who have type 1 diabetes, semaglutide and other GLP-1 receptor agonists may provide the following benefits:

• Help stabilize blood sugar levels
• Promote weight loss, which may be recommended for some people with type 1 diabetes
• Offer cardiovascular benefits, such as reduced risk of heart attack and stroke, per some study findings

However, there are also significant risks and considerations for using semaglutide or other GLP-1 receptor agonists in individuals with type 1 diabetes. For example, people with type 1 diabetes rely on insulin, so adding a medication that increases insulin secretion could raise the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It’s essential to carefully monitor insulin doses and adjust as needed.

Side Effects

GLP-1 receptor agonists bring a risk of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). People with a history of pancreatitis should use these medications with caution. Other potential side effects include:

• Nausea and vomiting — These are the most common side effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists and often ease over time.
• Diarrhea and constipation — Gastrointestinal discomfort is common but can be managed with changes to the diet.
• Injection site reactions — Discoloration, swelling, or itching at the injection site can occur.

Besides pancreatitis, serious but rare side effects include kidney problems and severe allergic reactions.

Other Considerations

It’s important to be aware of the cost and accessibility of semaglutide. Because this medication is primarily indicated for type 2 diabetes, insurance coverage for its off-label use in type 1 diabetes may vary. Always consult with your health care provider and insurance company to understand the costs of treatment.

Semaglutide’s Place in Therapy

Semaglutide and similar drugs offer promising benefits for blood sugar control and weight management, which may be appealing to some people with type 1 diabetes. However, using these medications off-label for type 1 diabetes comes with potential risks, including hypoglycemia, gastrointestinal issues, and serious side effects. If you have type 1 diabetes and are interested in these drugs, it’s crucial to consult with your health care provider and thoroughly discuss the potential benefits and risks.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On myT1Dteam, the social network for people with type 1 diabetes and their loved ones, more than 3,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with type 1 diabetes.

Do you have questions about using GLP-1 receptor agonists? Have you asked your doctor about these medications? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.