All about Trulicity, Ozempic, Victoza, Bydureon, and others. An Intro to GLP1s

Ever wonder about medicines like Trulicity, Ozempic, or Victoza? These diabetes medications all work in a similar way in the management of Type 2 Diabetes and improving A1c. In this video, I discuss the natural role of GLP-1 in managing blood glucose, how these medications fit into that role, what the benefits are, and what the side effects are.
A couple corrections to the video:
At 1:52, I misspoke and said "glycogen" instead of "glucagon"
At 2:33, I accidentally said "insulin" instead of "intestine".
Sorry about any confusion.
As promised in the video, here are links to relevant studies on the cardiovascular safety/potential benefits of these medications:
Adlyxin: www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056...
Bydureon: www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056...
Victoza: www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056...
Trulicity: www.thelancet.com/journals/la...
Ozempic: www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056...
Rybelsus: www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056...

[@magil3112]

In France, Ozempic and Trulucity cost 89€ for a months supply and covered 100 % by the Insurance if you’re a diabetic.

[@DjeasyMuzikRyder]

True and now trulicity is not available, it's getting very scares now I can't get in no pharmacy I have to ask my doctor to suggest me an alternative..sigh

[@hollismallory2757]

This guy is amazing at explaining things

[@cheryllittle7578]

Looove how well u can talk on this topic in a easy to understand way! Fab info packed vid 😃 Def going to check out ur playlist

[@lynnehallier8859]

Since being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes 6 or 8 years ago, I have been using metformin, and totally unable to lose weight. Believe me, I tried every diet on the map and was unable to lose weight. I asked my doctor about Ozempic after hearing tremendous success of a co-worker. I just finished my fourth pen and have lost 15 pounds! My morning glucose has dropped by 40 or 50 points. Can’t wait till my upcoming appointment to see what happened to my last A1C of 6.3. Thank you for the video. I learned a lot, and was wondering about the cancer issue also.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thanks for sharing your experience! I'm glad you found the video helpful!

[@walterjohnson5602]

Watch your creatinine, because I had to stop metformin a long time ago when it started to impair my kidney function, as measured by the Creatinine level. "A normal result is 0.7 to 1.3 mg/dL (61.9 to 114.9 µmol/L) for men and 0.6 to 1.1 mg/dL (53 to 97.2 µmol/L) for women. Women often have a lower creatinine level than men. This is because women often have less muscle mass than men. Creatinine level varies based on a person's size and muscle mass." By 2.0 you should be seeing a kidney specialist.

[@antoinetteblair4]

EXCELLENT video as usual ❤️

[@terry2346]

Very nice overview of GLP 1 agonists! And this is from a retired PA :) Well done!

[@liewvuikong9131]

i love all your videos because of the honesty of what you said. And keeps it that way.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thank you so much for your feedback. I'm glad you've enjoyed the videos.

[@ScottPaddock]

I wish I would have seen this video 4 years ago when I went on long-release insulin combined with glipizide. I was recommended a GLP-1, but the black box label scared me because of thyroid issues in my family. I've recently been having some low blood sugar scares in the middle of the night. I just messaged my doctor about switching to a GLP-1. Thanks for all of your info!!!!

[@dreamgirl101100]

First time watching your video. I have to say thank you I was unable to make a decision but you have made everything so clear. Thank you

[@phanet4lyfe]

Your channel is wonderful! I'm an ambulatory care pharmacist working with patients with diabetes and these videos are so useful! I love the "possibilities and not promises" for adverse effects.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thanks for your feedback! That really means a lot to me and I'm glad you've found them helpful.

[@suzannemendez520]

I’ve been on Victoza for three months and I have only lost 3 pounds when will I lose more weight I can’t wait I just want to lose 20 pounds

[@jjjackson5613]

Very informative. Easy to understand. Thank you for the video!

[@sugarhighchannel]

Glad you found it helpful!

[@PlayRightParent]

You explained this so well, thank-you!

[@vicndav55]

Thank you so much on the very simple and clear explanation. I feel so much better about what my doctor is trying to do to help me. I was very resistant to trying these meds but now you have reduced my fear and anxiety about them and I am looking forward to trying them.

[@pcnav8036]

Very good video. The reason I looked up your video was because of the cancer warning. You made it easy to understand the risk.

[@sugarhighchannel]

I'm so glad you found it helpful. Thanks for commenting.

[@ToddHarrisonDavis]

You asked for stories and feedback. I've had type-2 diabetes for over a decade now. Metformin works for me to some degree, but it is inconsistent, didn't manage my A1C well, and it's a lot of pills to take, so when I learned about Trulicity (T), I asked my doctor about it right away. The experience with T was great. I'm a huge baby when it comes to needles, but as you mentioned in another video, the injection system T uses is great, and most of the time, I don't feel the injection at all. I love it, it works great, and now I can inject myself once a week rather than much Metformin all day every day. I did have some minor side effects from Trulicity, such as occasional nausea and other intestinal hijinx, but for the most part, it was fine. I did lose some weight, not much, but the better part was that I was able to keep my existing weight pretty steady regardless of what I ate or how much exercise I got. Things changed in the past year. The "Ozempic diet craze" started, and all of a sudden, the drugs I could previously buy were no longer available, because people were buying GLP-1's in bulk hoping to fit into their bikinis next summer, while folks like myself who actually need the stuff to live were facing "out of stock" issues with our medications. At one point, after searching for T for a few weeks and being told it was going to be a month or more until more stock came in, my doctor chose to switch me over to Mounjaro (M). The stock of that was low as well, but they had plenty of the highest dose (16mg I believe), so that's what I took. Things went well at first, it seemed to be working. I started to notice that I was burping however, constantly, as in all day, every day. My food portions slowly got smaller and smaller to the point where just a few bites of food seemed to fill me up. Then the nausea started to set in. At first I threw up once a week or so. Then twice a week. A few months in, I had a really bad day. I started to throw up and simply could not stop. I thought my shoes were going to come out of my mouth. After that episode, my eating stopped, almost entirely. I could barely drink water and even that made me nauseated after a sip or two. I basically stopped eating after that. If I tried to eat anything more than a single, tiny bite, it just came back up, and I was nauseated all day and night. I wasn't eating so I started to lose weight at a rapid pace. I ended up losing over 30 lbs in the span of three weeks. I had no energy, I was dizzy, weak, I could not concentrate, and in the third week, I started to experience severe muscle cramps in my calves and was having trouble walking. We honestly thought I was going to die. Since nothing was going down (and I should mention I also have Crohn's, so gastrointestinal problems are common for me anyway. I should also mention that I had ROUX-N-Y stomach surgery about 20 years ago) we just naturally assumed I had a blockage in my intestines, so I got several scans plus an endoscopy, and... nothing. No blockage. To make a long story short, the M had slowed my digestion down so very much that it had almost stopped entirely. I wasn't hungry and couldn't eat because my stomach was constantly full. Whatever I ate just "sat there" or came back up. I was taken off the M and it took several weeks before I was back to normal again. If it had continued, even a while longer, severe problems would have formed. I'm lucky it reversed itself. After a few weeks, I went back on Trulicity. So far, while I again have some nausea and some digestion issues, it is for the most part doing okay. I don't know if I have a "moral to the story" other than to be aware of what those side effects are, and to be super clear with your doctor about what you are experiencing. You shouldn't be sick all day, every day, and if you are, that's a problem, so go see your doctor. And be careful about switching suppliers. Not all GLP-1's are the same, and your ability to tolerate one might not translate to another, so start slow and watch your body carefully. These GLP-1's are the best stuff we've got right now to help control diabetes. I really, really hope that somehow they encourage people who are using it as a diet fad to look elsewhere, as they are not only taking medicine away from people who need it to live, but also, you will have to take it for life if you want to maintain your weight. The moment you go off it, your digestive system will start to function normally again, your appetite will come back, and your body may not know how to handle it. Just be aware that you are "using a trick" to fool your body, and that's not how it's supposed to work, so be careful. For the cost of Ozempic you can afford a good trainer. Do that instead. :)

[@PlayRightParent]

Wow thank-you for explaining the black box warning in layman’s terms! Truly appreciated!

[@NewPOV]

Excellent video! Learned a lot, and I thought I already knew a lot. 😎

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thanks Jon! I’m glad you found it helpful. Lots more on the way.

[@brigittegilroy2882]

@@sugarhighchannel ]++

[@patriciaabidi4481]

@@sugarhighchannel hi, do you have Diabetes?

[@MrPenguinLife]

Thanks for the video, and to answer your question yes I have been on Trulicity for about 2 years

[@mushroompizza5804]

Did you lose weight?

[@JaeStories87]

You've been incredibly helpful to me with my diagnosis last month, putting my mind at ease with these "scary" shots that aren't so scary anymore. I hope you eventually do a deep dive into Victoza, as that's the pen my doctor prescribed me. Can't wait for the next video (hopefully soon)!

[@sugarhighchannel]

Your feedback really means a lot to me. Thank you for your kind words and I'm glad you've found it helpful!

[@djb6313]

Just about to start a glp-1 treatment and this video helped me understand how it works and feel better about taking it.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Glad you found it helpful! Thanks so much for your comment.

[@djb6313]

@@sugarhighchannel btw...blood sugar has been perfect since starting and have lost 22lbs . No major side effects other than slight nausea and constipation at the beginning.

[@gregpavlovich7761]

Thanks for your insight. I have been on Trulicity for around 6 months and it has been a real game changer for my type 2 diabetes. My sugar levels have gone from through the roof high to near enough to perfect. It is super easy to use every Sunday night. I had some very mild side effects the first time I used it but nothing worth noting. Most times I inject I barely feel the shot and have to check it actually worked 😅 I can highly recommend. Thanks Greg

[@AxelQC]

Your videos are a perfect balance of entertaining, understandable, and informative.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thank you! Honestly, this is exactly what I'm going for so it means a lot that it's coming across that way.

[@sikreyto]

very informative. excellent job

[@christhianeribeiro388]

What a great video. Thank you!

[@sugarhighchannel]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@prasadhonnavara875]

Good presentation.

[@carlmilton1]

Great video. Just had my first shot of Trulicity. Trying to learn what I can as I have just been diagnosed with type 2.

[@sugarhighchannel]

carlmilton1 Thanks for your feedback! Hope the Trulicity helps you and best wishes as you nail diabetes!

[@Ahlaroseeee]

A great one ! Thanks a lot !

[@PatrickHunlock]

Hi! Love the channel! Please do a video on Victoza. I'm on this and would love to get a a real deep dive into what its actually helping (and maybe hurting -- besides my pocketbook)!

[@sugarhighchannel]

You bet. I’ve been waiting on a resupply of Victoza samples so I could use them for a video. They just got delivered earlier this week so I’ll get that made ASAP.

[@madelinehall8944]

I was prescribed Trulicity this week. The cost to me was a shock. I didn't get it. I came home, got online and researched coupons and help. I found Lily offers assistance to low income patients. I couldn't afford to come off metformin. I hope Lily helps me. Thank you for the informative videos. Cost is a bigger deal

[@lazmotron]

Great Channel!

[@hildaperry4366]

You are amazing you have been very helpful and had the gastro bypass still struggling with my weight I have started with those epic it stop the craving progress and work

[@claycrouse6299]

....mornin....great video....thank's....

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thanks!. Glad you found it helpful

[@rmdebora]

My endocrinologist gave me ozempic to loose weight together with diet and exercise. I don't have diabetes but it really helps with my endless hunger feeling and it's working. I'm loosing weight and just feel sick sometimes .

[@Brian.8272]

i had a heart attack in January, I have a1c of 5.5 and glucose of 114. I'm 5'7" and 52 years old 186 pounds, would a doctor prescribe me glp-1 medication?

[@kylina3432]

@@Brian.8272 I am not sure if you saw that your message was a reply to the person talking about her story or if you were trying to ask the maker of the video. If you are trying to ask the video maker the I would say to ask the question again in the comments section. I don't have diabetes but am close to being and I have been given Ozempic. I would say talk to your doctor. My doctor hadn't even heard of it yet and after reading she said yes we can definitely give this a try...

[@mfbs60]

@@Brian.8272 I endocrinologist prescribed to me the GlP 1 , but i am a thyroid cancer survival, as well side effects says do not take glp 1 if you had thyroid cancer. I am afraid 😨 my mind tells me to do not take it, what I shall do!!! ?

[@jdmullen78]

@@Brian.8272 mine did. I am taking Bydureon now. She originally said Ozempic but insurance wouldn't pay and Bydureon is 20% cheaper (still pretty expensive).

[@carinasoria8445]

Thank you so much

[@irmamckinney6677]

I've been taking victoza for about five months now and I've lost 45 lbs and feel AMAZING!! Yessss, it does make your stomach feel upset when you over eat so I'm eating about 1,000 calories a day and once in a while I get headaches but other than that this is an amazing drug. I did stop taking it for about a month cuz of the high cost and I did notice that I didn't lose any weight but I didn't gain any either so I guess that wasn't so bad. I still have another 30 lbs more to lose and I'll be happy but I truly recommend using this drug for weight loss!!

[@sugarhighchannel]

Glad it's going so well for you. Thanks for sharing your experiences. Wish it was cheaper...

[@frankieandkristentravel]

I was just put on victoza I'm hoping it works for me like that. I know it has curved my hunger by 90%

[@yahyamohammedpatel1432]

Just Started taking Trulicity, had my dose on Saturday. Its Thursday today, I feel nauseous and have gone completely off my food, but on the plus side, my sugar levels have come right down to normal. Thank God for the NHS here in the UK means that I do not have to pay for my medication.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Glad you're seeing some glucose improvements! Here's hoping that the nausea fades quickly. Thanks for sharing your experiences!

[@carlmilton1]

How are you feeling after 4 weeks? I have just taken my first shot today. Hope you are feeling a bit better.

[@yahyamohammedpatel1432]

@@carlmilton1After 2 weeks I stopped. Had my problems with side effects, ie constipation, unable to eat anything, and nausea. But that's just me. May be it will work for you.

[@danpadilla4543]

Thank you for the great video… I’m currently on oral diabetic meds (glipizide and janumet), if I should try any of these GLP1s, will I still need to take any of the oral meds? Thank you in advance. 😊

[@gary3696]

I was started on Trulicity a little over a month ago, since then my FBS has returned to almost normal, can't weight (pun) to see what my A1c is later this month, I have had a gastric sleeve 6 yrs ago, and still only wound up losing an average of 20% of my excess weight. Since Truliciety I've lost another 30lbs!!!, This has been a wonder drug for me, I'm a disabled vet and have used a cane for past 10 years, there are times where my pain has decreased to the point that I don't need it around the house. BUT: This morning I woke up with a swollen lymph node in my neck, it's tender to palpation and so called my Doc, we'll see what he says.

[@weezie8237]

Thank you for clearing up a few things. I was going to ask if it’s ok to use Ozempic for weight loss ? My doctor prescribed this to help me with stubborn weight that I just cannot get rid of. I see rmdebora is in the same situation and it’s helping her, thank you rmdebora for your comment, it helped me too !

[@yolandasalone7949]

Everyone talks about the side effects. Of you being nausea? But no one talks about the side effects of being constipated. I just started. Trulicity and I have constipation. I've taken stool softeners. And doctor prescribe medication for constipation and I still haven't went I do not like this feeling. Thanks for the video.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Yup, constipation can happen too. Glad you enjoyed the video

[@slaveteri]

i'm a Bydureon user and i LOVE it. i started on just metformin and had gotten my A1c down to about 6.0, then it started creeping up again, even though my blood sugars weren't really reflecting that. When it got to 7.0 again, my NP and i decided to add the Bydureon. i'm back down to 6.3 after 6 months. There is NO WAY i could afford this, even with my insurance! But my NP gave me a card and Astra Zeneca basically pays for their own med for me to take it. $800+/mo is definitely out of my price range! i've lost a little weight, not a lot, but i also have other endocrine issues that affect that. i definitely feel full after eating now, which isn't something i was experiencing before. i'm not a super heavy woman starting with 240 at my highest, before being diagnosed, now hanging around 200 now, but all that weight is in my belly. my legs and arms are super skinny. Slowly losing weight still, but people keep telling me that is the healthy way to go. :-) When i was younger (i'm in my 50s now), i was maybe 100lbs soaking wet. Never would have guessed i'd become diabetic. Mom is Type 1, diagnosed when she was in her 40s and Dad was just diagnosed Type 2 a couple of years ago in his 70s. But i never really showed any symptoms, until i started losing feeling in my toes! Got diagnosed ASAP after that. And that's my experience! Looking forward to they Bydureon specific video!

[@sugarhighchannel]

Glad to hear you're doing so much better! Thanks for sharing your experiences.

[@marcelagarza3566]

Thank you so much, I'm taking metformin but my doctor suggested trulicity,I'm afraid to say yes,your information is so valuable in this moment, thank you.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Marcela Garza thanks so much for your comment. I’m glad you found the video helpful. I also have a video specifically on Trulicity, in case you need any help getting started with using the device.

[@gandapelayo]

You are awesome

[@daviddow8150]

I have just started trulicity. The one thing I notice most is a feeling of calm and well being

[@magehistorian]

I would like you to know that your explanation of how glp-1 meds worked saved me a trip to the urgent care. I freaked out after I took a dose and thought I had been given the wrong pen. Your video on how they work helped me realize that I had time to put in a phone call to my doctor (she moved me to the full dose) and get and explanation. Thank you for saving me an unneccessary bill!

[@sugarhighchannel]

That's great! I'm glad you found it helpful and I appreciate your kind feedback.

[@punkin60]

Ashamed to say I have used 80% of these meds with little or no success. Metformin for years but I had horrid episodes of lactic acidosis recently. Had RNY surgery and lost 100# and kept it off for 12+ years but BG shot up again. I have found success with Ozempic and a low carb diet. The combination is amazing.

[@bpace8136]

David! I was a student at LLU! Now I'm working at a rural hospital doing Endocrinology! Would love to get some insight in regards to getting help for some of my patients needing these meds!

[@sugarhighchannel]

Wow! My alma mater!! What town are you working in? There’s a great association for Endo PAs called ASEPA that can be a great resource. Send me a direct message to my channel Instagram account @sugarhighchannel and we can connect!

[@bst3055585]

Thank you, thank you, thank you. Very useful info But my main problem on Trulicity is constipation, I started Jan 1 and nothing will help except Exlax. It is really bad. I am on the .75 injection. Can you tell me if all GLP’s have the same affect. So glad I found you. I’m a subscriber now.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thanks for subscribing! All meds in the class have the same collection of possible side effects, but a different Med in the same family might not necessarily hit you the same way. The only way to know for sure is to try it. I’d have a conversation with you’re healthcare provider about what he or she suggests.

[@raelynnkijkowski9549]

I tried ozempic and was amazing for my blood sugars but i had severe constipation like no poops without a laxative. Im off ozempic and everything is back to normal there. But the medication is so good for my blood sugars I wonder if I should try trulicity as it is duraglutide rather than semaglutide but still a GLP1 or will I have the same side effect? and maybe I just wont know unless is give trulicity a try. I'm so thankful because the healthcare in my province covers medication along with insurance.

[@monetpiedad7611]

Thank you for covering these GLP1s. Can you talk more about Soliqua later in your next videos and can you compare it with Toujeo? How come they do not make it Toujeo mixed with lixisenatide so the insulin content is better? Just a thought. Also, can you take Metformin with Soliqua, Amlodipine or Telmisartan with Soliqua? Many thanks!

[@tiernyt2051]

THANK YOU,, so much your awesome!! I JUST started taking the Ozempic once a week. I do have bloating a little dizziness, other then that it's been tolerable. My question is "Can I do anything about the bloating? Like ASAP?

[@elmatba5744]

What about type 1 can they help reduce high sugar beside insulin therapy as my doctor recommends vicroza and I use lantus and novorapid I've been diabetic for 30 years now I'm waiting for your advice

[@tastingpositive8880]

hi sugar high! love your videos!! I have a rare, monogenetic form of diabetes called MODY. I was wondering- does Januvia fall into the class of medications you are referencing in this video? I know Januvia is in the class of "Sitagliptins" but I also know that it only makes me produce more insulin if it detects sugar in the blood (similar to the drugs referenced in this video.) I know you said that GLP1 only come in injection form, but Januvia seems to have the same effect and is in pill form. Are there some major differences I'm missing? Also - I would love to hear your thoughts on using Jardiance and other diabetic drugs that utilize the kidney pathway for younger diabetics like myself. Is it safe longterm? I was diagnosed at 26 and am now almost 29. Thank you for the incredible content! I also have a KZbin Channel called Tasting Positive! Some of my videos go over dealing with diabetes from a young age, and also dealing with diabetes in general, and not falling into the hype of fad diets that could potentially be very harmful to diabetics. Please continue making these videos! You are fantastic at explaining these difficult/ complex concepts and I greatly appreciate your simplistic breakdowns. :D I look forward to watching your videos to come. A video on Jardiance and Januvia would be greatly appreciated!

[@sugarhighchannel]

First of all, thanks for your enthusiasm and kind words about the channel. I checked out your channel as well and really liked what you're doing. I subscribed and will keep up with your posts. Maybe a collaboration video is in the future! Videos on Meds like Januvia and Jardiance are both next on my to-do list, then insulins and diet issues. As for Januvia (generic name Sitagliptan), it's in category of meds called DPP-4 inhibitors and what they do is to block the enzyme that breaks down and deactivates your own naturally-produced GLP-1. That's why it has a similar effect as you described, because its effect is to try to preserve your own GLP-1, as opposed to adding extra like these GLP-1 agonist meds. I have a really fun idea for how I want to demonstrate how meds like Januvia work and I'm looking forward to getting that video made soon. Jardiance actually works really well for insulin-requiring diabetics like Type 1s and MODY but MUST be used in combination with insulin; it's not a substitute. I've used them off label in some Type 1s with good outcomes, but it's not FDA-approved in the US (the voting came down to an 8 to 8 tie based on concerns over DKA). But a couple meds in that class ARE approved in Europe for Type 1 diabetes. It will be interesting to see what the future holds.

[@bradd3840]

Are there any generics on the market? Which one is the least expensive?

[@bookfairee]

My AC1 is 5.6 I’m starting to have higher blood pressure. Which I never had. Also high colestral again never had weight has creeped up in the past 3 months. I take thyroid meds. Would ozempic be something to speak to dr about.

[@randyware4365]

Hello I have been a type 2 going on 18 years have been on Lantus for 17 I’m controlled with 25 units a night and 5 to 8 of humalog before meal as needed. Do you think I would benefit from 1 of the GLP’1s.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Hey Randy, it’s possible. Adding a GLP1 may possibly allow you to do without the Humalog since it’s a low dose.

[@carlosusepulveda5492]

I can use Januvia and Ozempic together?

[@LaraHarker91]

This is my 4th day on victoza and i have been having panic attacks and insomnia after application (I apply it at night). I just hope this awful fear to medications goes away😢

[@freshbme2]

I dont no who you are, but my mom is on trulicity and is having the same issues. Nausea, heartburn, and insomnia...

[@caro133244]

Buenas tardes. Quiero sugerirte si es posible que los video tenga substitución en español. Muchas gracias

[@sugarhighchannel]

Hola y buenas tardes. Yo planeo agregar subtítulos en español y en ingles a mis videos. Espero que puedan ayudarte!

[@kathycheesman2877]

Can you tell me in your opinion what is the best oral medication for diabetes to take with ozempic

[@TheMrsJMay]

My doctor has changed me from Ozempic to Trulicity because my new insurance wanted me to try other forms of GLP1s. I have lost 15+ lbs with no annoying side effects on Ozempic. Do you suspect I’ll experience any side effects from switching to Trulicity? I have been off of Ozempic now for about 6-7 weeks because of the fight with insurance. Please advise. Thank you!!!

[@sueschoers4974]

Can you take GLP1 medication if you are on psychotropic medication for schizophrenia? The psych meds have been attributed to weight gain which has seen my sons weight balloon in the last 10 years from 150lbs to 300lbs.

[@pamelaferguson7766]

I just asked my Dr. About trying Ozimpic. I've been on victoza for a few years now, and believe it's become ineffective. He gave me a couple of examples of Ozempic to take the place of the Victoza and the nurse told me she'd they more from the medical salesman. Are requesting samples of medicines from salespeople a normal practice?

[@stephengoetsch349]

I used Trulicity for four years until 2020, when I switched back to a low dose of metformin. My objective was to lower my medication costs upon retirement and combined it with a more rigorous avoidance of carbs in my diet to perhaps get to not using any diabetes medications at all. I was unable to reach the goal of no metformin, and my a1c and weight began to creep up. So, after more than two years on metformin, I have begun transitioning to Ozembic, which may not have been available or as well known as Trulicity when I first started Trulicity. My most recent a1c was 6.5%, but on Trulicity I was actually at 5.6% at one point. I think the GLP-1 agonists are miraculous. I never felt nauseous with Trulicity, but I am having a few problems with Ozembic, but so far these are minor.

[@carlcolvin8320]

Would monohydrate creatine effect my blood sugar ?? I am pretty good shape except for type 2. I work out in the 4-5 days a week.

[@kraeergroup5145]

I have had diverticulosis and actually part of my intestines removed and a colostomy bag this was at least 10 years ago. I had the colostomy for about 7 weeks then went through successfull reattach, so thankfully no more bag. Is it safe for Me to be on the type of medication as I am over Wyandotte stage 2 diabetic

[@TANIA_537]

Hello, Do you know if there is any serious complications with taking Ozempic and becoming pregnant while on the medication? I have been researching and I really can’t find much information. Thank you.

[@sugarhighchannel]

MISSLANE25 There isn’t much information available because it’s never been studied. In every clinical trial for these medications, pregnant women, or women who plan to become pregnant, are not allowed to enroll because the possible risk to the baby (if any) is unknown. Understandably, nobody wants to risk their own baby to find out if it’s harmful.

[@Brian.8272]

i had a heart attack in January, I have a1c of 5.5 and glucose of 114. I'm 5'7" and 52 years old 186 pounds, would a doctor prescribe me glp-1 medication?

[@kevingose8940]

Very informative video. Reminded me of Crashcourse in your deliver and editing. T2 for 8 years, started Ozempic 5m ago 0.5 weekly dose, also Farxiga. (Previous meds: couldn’t tolerate Metformin, switched off Januvia for Ozempic) family history both parents and both grandparent sets T2 & 1 sibling T2 About once a month, I get severe burps. (I apologize for the next description) The burps taste yeasty like beer burps when you chug a beer. Sometimes this is accompanied by diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. I am not sure if this is the new normal, or if others experience this also. Is there something I am eating or can avoid eating? Is there something I missed in the paperwork? It is sporadic enough that I forget about it until it happens again the next month. What “troubleshooting” should I do before my next Dr. visit to help her have more information to work with? Besides this monthly day or two, I have had good results with daily sugar and weight loss.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Hi Kevin, thanks for your comment. In addition to all of the other gastrointestinal side effects, Ozempic can cause, or worsen, acid reflux. That could be a likely culprit for what you're describing. Fried/fatty foods, spicy foods, and alcohol often contribute to worsening acid reflux as well, but in can also be a rather individual thing. As fas as troubleshooting, smaller, more frequent meals are usually recommended in people with reflux. I also would try to identify triggering foods (perhaps keep a food diary on the days it happens) to see if you can pinpoint anything leading to the symptoms and if simple avoidance of triggering foods don't provide relief, plan on discussing it at that upcoming Dr visit to see if he/she thinks any treatment would be appropriate. Glad you're getting good glucose results with it and I appreciate your feedback!

[@Morganrcb1]

I have more questions for LADA 1.5 patients with insulin resistance on a pump. Will cause hypoglycemia? I also have NASH, concerned about liver dumping.

[@lollybabe08]

There are some LADA on GLP-1 agonist with success. but u need guidance of endocrinologist. Study noticed lower insulin requirements

[@willynordboe5853]

Been on Ozempic 2 times. The first time i lost weight, fat on the liver disappeared, blood suggar normalised. But both times i got pancreatitis, second time i had to stop early because it got really bad two weeks in on the smalest dose. Frusatrating because these meds helps me so much and remove all og my problems like some kind of "superdrug". I see no other effective option for my health issues.. Somehow my pancrea is in the small percantage that reacts to the drug, would love them to solve this issue.

[@SouthofIllusion]

Awesome video! I read an interesting study about the efficacy of GLP-1RA in postprandial hypoglycemia patients after gastric bypass. The study mentioned how it seems counterintuitive, but this particular class of medication tends to work extremely well for these patients in controlling blood sugar levels. I was wondering if that might have something to do with the side effect that GLP-1s often have of delayed gastric emptying, or if there's some other reason why they're effective for patients with reactive hypoglycemia. My understanding is that many of these patients have increased beta cell mass in their pancreas, so it really does seem counterintuitive to add a drug which releases more insulin. Do you have any thoughts on this? I'd really like to know your take on it!

[@sandrawaltrip5099]

I have been on Ozempic for several months and I have been pleased with the results (albeit I could definitelylive without the nauseaand gassy feeling). However, I have list my private employer's ins due to retirement and am now on Medicare which will NOT cover either Ozempic or Rybelsus for the same cost. I am faced with an increase 12 times higher!! Can't do it. Prior authorization was refused. Trulicity is covered at a MUCH lower cost. Would you suggest moving to Trulicity as opposed to dropping a GLP-1 drug? If so what should I expect from switching - weight-loss, A1C, etc

[@tbeckermom]

I took ozempic once. But i.always felt nauseous and like i had acid reflux. Is there anything you can do to relieve the side effects so i can take it again?

[@pastorapostledeborahlouise5031]

Ozempic cause me eye problems were they wanted to stick a needle in my eye and draw fluid out and I didn't have no problem till I start using ozempic and make you nauseous and throwing up and I don't want to do none of it

[@fzsakib]

In UK i get these for free. Thanks to the NHS. I use to take Trulicity however the side effects were really bad so trying Ozempic. Hope this one will work

[@sugarhighchannel]

Thanks for your comment and for sharing your experiences! Hope the Ozempic works well for you. Best wishes from the states.

[@awwkib]

Hi, I wanted to know which one is better in reducing weight? Victoza or Ozempic? I'm 120kg (6ft 4" height & 38yrs old). Also what about the performance of the oral one Rybelsus? Lastly, have you heard about Saxenda? Is that also a GLP-1 medication?

[@sugarhighchannel]

They actually compared to Victoza and Ozempic directly in a clinical trial and Ozempic brought about more weight reduction. Saxenda is a higher dose of Victoza intended for weight reduction in non-diabetic people.

[@awwkib]

@@sugarhighchannel thanks for replying... can non-diabetic use Victoza? For how long should they use? 3 months should suffice and then take a break for how many months before starting another course of 3 months?

[@CSimi115]

Which one of these medications would you suggest specifically for weight loss? Saxenda was recommended but it’s not covered at all by my insurance.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Saxenda is just high dose Victoza, so one could theoretically use Victoza for the same effect, but to would require multiple injections. BTW- a full review on Victoza is uploading as I type this. :) Ozempic is also currently in clinical trials for the purpose of weight loss in non-diabetics (although when/if it gets approved by the FDA it will have a different name in the same way that Victoza and Saxenda have different names).

[@daleval2182]

@@sugarhighchannel now that helped, i appreciate the way you de code the games drug companies play to market and mix match names, when 3 or 4 names are the same GLP 1,Thank you

[@frankstark3036]

I’ve lost 15 lbs. on the 1.5 mg dose of trulicity. I’ve recently been increased to 3.0 mg. My question is now that I’ve started the higher does will I lose more weight or is it just an initial response.

[@cledusneighbor2630]

do i need to refrigerate victoza

[@jonpatterson5668]

I just picked up my pen today. The Bydureon pen

[@sugarhighchannel]

Great! I’m actually working on a video specifically about Bydureon. Should be up in a few days. 👍

[@sibertater]

I’ve been on it for 10 weeks and I am switching to Ozempic because of the knots at the injection sites. I have a bump for every injection. It’s weird.

[@anitatillotson5138]

I just started Victoza. It’s been very helpful with my blood sugar levels. However, I do feel nauseous and get headaches. I don’t want to stop using it because I like the numbers I have been seeing. I’m hoping those side effect will go away.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Anita Tillotson Thats often how people describe the side effects. They can be annoying, but a lot of people are willing to deal with it because they feel the good outweighs the bad. For some people it’s too much. Hang in there; I’m glad you’re getting good results.

[@lollybabe08]

hope it has improve for you. No side effects for me!

[@michaeldonovan7443]

How come all glp1 are contraindicated to insulin so that means if I am on insulin I can not use these medications

[@JennyNguyen0512]

Can you do a video on trulicity and semaglutide (injectable and tablets) and possibly compare them? I’m a pharmacy student. I come across several patients who were prescribed ozempic. Almost all of them experience SEs. Some doctor just told their patients to D/C ozempic and switch back to their old diabetes regimen if they don’t tolerate ozempic. Ozempic is such a great drug but not many doctors are able to keep their patients on it. How do u instruct ur patients to take ozempic to minimize the side effects? I know some doctor start their patients on 5 clicks and then slowly increase to 0.25mg and eventually to 0.5mg or 1mg.

[@sugarhighchannel]

Sorry for the late reply; I somehow missed this comment! I recently posted a video on Trulicity that compared some of the more common side effects to the others in this class- I think that might answer some of these questions. I'll continue to do that for upcoming videos on each GLP-1 med. I've used the approach that you mentioned, recommending lower-than-marked doses by counting clicks for both Victoza and Ozempic. Sometimes we get caught into thinking that we "must" use the marked doses, but there's a whole lot of click in between that 0 and 0.25mg marking that people can count off if they need a more gradual dose increase plan.

[@sbherring3223]

@@sugarhighchannel I just started on Victoza and I am trying just a few clicks to adjust to it . Tried Trulicity a while back and had an awful experience which lasted for 5 1/2 days...then a day and half good then the cycle repeated when I did the next injections. My question is if I stay on the lesser number of clicks, the vial will last for more than 30 days but the tube says to discard after 30 days. I think it will be hard to throw out this $800 Rx. What do you think about taking it beyond that 30 day period? Thanks heaps!

[@mnewknow72]

I just started taking Victoza and was told to take my metformin together. Will There be a time when I only use Victoza and stop combining it with metformin? It makes me feel nauseous. Metformin makes me gassy

[@sugarhighchannel]

Yeah, the side effects of both those medications can sort of add up. Some people do use Victoza alone without the metformin. I can't really speculate on anyone's particular situation, but definitely have a conversation with your healthcare provider regarding any side effects you may be experiencing so you both can develop a plan that works best for you. Thanks for your comment!

[@clh42]

I'm curious of your opinion on this. I started Ozempic last July (2019) and it was a GODSEND in it's effectiveness. Not only controlling the blood sugar level, but helping with appetite and weight control (I lost 20 lbs the first month). But as of about March this year (so about 8 months later), it's no longer effective. Blood sugar is back to being high, back to being hungry all the time, putting weight back on. Are there any specific reasons it would just stop working, that might be tied to anything I'm doing that I can change to make it effective again? My doctor didn't really have any insight. He did offer to switch me to one of the other GLP-1 drugs, but what are the likelihoods that any of them will work now that Ozempic seems to have failed?

[@sugarhighchannel]

Considering that Ozempic is probably the most effective medication in it's class, switching to another GLP-1 might be worth a try, but I honestly wouldn't expect too much. It's hard to say exactly what might cause it to become less effective without knowing more about your health history, but one thing that causes GLP-1 medications to work for a while and then fade in effectiveness is the diagnosis of LADA. I recently posted a video on LADA that explains what it is and when to suspect it. If the description matched your diabetes history, it might be worth a conversation with your doctor about looking deeper into your situation.

[@clh42]

@@sugarhighchannel Thanks for the LADA info. I watched the video, but I'm not sure I fit that. Mainly, mine is definitely obesity related. I'm 5'9" and 300 lbs. For a bit of extra info, I was diagnosed T2 3 or 4 years ago with an A1c in the upper sixes. I've been on Metformin since then with the A1c mostly staying in the low to mid sixes. The Ozempic was added last July when my A1c had jumped to the lower sevens for a couple of checkups. My next check-in after that, about 4 months later, the A1c was back to low sixes, but my check-in this April, it was back up to low sevens. (I don't remember the exact numbers.) On a side note, it may be a longshot, but I did think of one other factor just yesterday that ties in with the timing of this. That's the pharmacy I get it through. When I started the Ozempic, I got it locally from a Wallgreens. At the beginning of this year I switched to my insurance's mail-order pharmacy. I have had two 90-day supplies from them now. Again, probably a long-shot, but I wonder if I'm getting bad batches from the mail-order. I know Ozempic is temperature sensitive. They do pack it in ice when they ship it, but still...

[@sugarhighchannel]

@@clh42 It's a possibility. I've had it happen with some of my insulin-using patients. You might try asking your doc if he/she has a sample available and if that miraculously works, it would be consistent with receiving a bad batch.

[@jamesryan8564]

Hows about doing an episode on how stress effects your blood sugar and ways to get rid of stress so that it is not causing your diabeties to get worse to the point your doctors have to perscribe MORE insulin... which makes you fatter and fatter causing more insulin resistance and how its a vicious cycle

[@ChrisJohnson-cg9sy]

For diabetes type 2 in New Zealand the government covers the cost of Trulicity. A NZ$5 Pharmacy cost is about it per month.

[@njcamocutie7085]

Thank you so much for all this info.I needed it.I take 32 iu of Basgalar insulin and my doc wants me to take this(victoza) to on top of that is this ok to take with insulin to? Im always so skeptical when taking meds(also on metformin 1000 daily)oh also have a fatty liver ( yeah ima mess i know)

[@sugarhighchannel]

NJ CAMOCUTIE - For sure! We use Victoza along with insulin all the time. Just make sure to check your glucose frequently since the Victoza will probably help your Basaglar to be even more effective. If you get low glucose readings, let your provider know. Sometimes people don’t need as much insulin anymore and we cut the dose back. 👍

[@njcamocutie7085]

Yes thats exactly why im scared to start the treatment as he said a common thing is my sugars can go low thru the night amd that's terrifying as i do t know what will happen.I barely have my sugars in check on just the Bagsgalar,now o do t wamma worry about something else new.UGGG!!! I have totally changed my diet ,no whites ,soda junk etc.

[@daleval2182]

@@njcamocutie7085 I'm like, the thing that has helped me most, is under 20 carbs a day, keto food, and reducing calories, i may ask for this med too

[@vwziful]

how common is hypoglycemia with these?

[@simonabarbieri2181]

i started trulicity 3 weeks ago. week 1 nausea week 2 diarroah and vomiting week 3 ended up in hospital I collapsed with low blood pressure at 39 .......had to stop it immediately

[@sarahkaddoura398]

If we still get strong reflux side effects after two months ? What should we do ? Should we stop ??? Am talking about Ozempic

[@sugarhighchannel]

The best course is to consult your healthcare provider for direction. Sometimes reducing the dose can help, sometimes using heartburn or anti-nausea medication can help. But there are other circumstances that might prompt your provider to direct you to stop it altogether. Only he/she knows your specific situation and can give you the best advice.

[@brendaallen8609]

Which one do you like the best for weight loss

[@sugarhighchannel]

Ozempic and the recently-approved higher dose (4.5 mg) of Trulicity have been shown to offer the most weight loss. I've had a lot of good luck with Ozempic in my patients, but haven't yet had the opportunity to try the higher doses of Trulicity since they JUST got approved a couple weeks ago. But this clinical trial results look promising.

[@cledusneighbor2630]

I just got a victoza pen, will my sexsenda needles work

[@djmd808]

While watching this, my TV was on and muted and an Ozempic commercial aired - touting it's affordability at the end with all the fine print flashing by... what do you think the future holds for GLP1s? Do you think us commoners will ever be able to afford it without selling our children?

[@sugarhighchannel]

Yeah, the affordability can be a challenge, depending on your insurance. I have some patients who's insurance plan will never pay for these in a million years and some who get it for a $3 co-pay. And then anywhere in between. The affordability that the commercials are usually referring to have to do with co-pay assistance cards that take the price down to either free or $25, assuming your insurance will at least cover part of it. Once medications go generic they usually become much more affordable, but the manufacturing of meds like these is MUCH more complicated than making a simple generic tablet or capsule. So the price will definitely go down with time, but no one really knows by how much.

[@lynnehallier8859]

There is a coupon available on the internet. Possible this might help?

[@user-el6wg1xe9e]

@@lynnehallier8859medicare or medicare advantage I do not think you can use coupons or discounts

[@Annlej1]

Can Ozempic be used together with metformin?

[@sugarhighchannel]

Annlej1 Absolutely. We use them together all the time.

[@rambskin]

trulicity makes mre dehydrated, severely. So severely I passed out while driving and crashed my vehicle on Valintine's day 2019. I have stopped taking it and dehydration decereased.

[@TebTengri]

Kind of the bad thing of those once weekly meds is if the side effects hit you hard you're stuck feeling like crap for multiple days.

[@Muppetfanforevah]

How does this drug affect my blood sugar while on a ketogenic diet?

[@RoRo-nl2wy]

I have the same question?

[@maximilian9295]

:/ pharmacy said Ozempic was 1200 a month, and that was with insurance paying a portion! Crazy

[@claycrouse6299]

....thank's again....where is your practice..???....and how could i contact you for a consult....???

[@sugarhighchannel]

My practice is in Lancaster, CA. If you live nearby and wanted to come for a consult, the office number is 661-948-6011. They'd be happy to schedule something for you!