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Ozempic (Semaglutide) GLP-1 Injections: How It Works For Weight Loss, Potential Side Effects And Where To Buy In Singapore

Ozempic (Semaglutide) GLP-1 Injections
Ozempic (Semaglutide) GLP-1 Injections

In Singapore, Ozempic (semaglutide) may be legally prescribed for weight loss under its off-label use policy, provided a doctor deems it beneficial and safe for the patient.

In this article, we share more about Ozempic:

  • How Ozempic work for weight loss;
  • How to use Ozempic; 
  • Potential side effects; and
  • Where to buy Ozempic in Singapore.

Ozempic FDA-approved Indications

Ozempic® (semaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable medication that is FDA-approved to help:

  • people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar
  • lowers the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke in people with established heart disease
  • reduce the risk of worsening kidney disease and cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease

How Does Ozempic Work for Weight Loss?

Ozempic is part of a group of medicines called GLP-1 medications. They copy the action of a natural hormone (GLP-1) that our body releases after eating. This hormone helps control blood sugar, reduces appetite, and slows digestion. By activating GLP-1 receptors in the body, Ozempic can help manage diabetes and also support weight loss.

Let’s break down how it helps with weight management:

1. Helping You Feel Full

Ozempic slows down food leaving your stomach helping you feel full sooner during meals and stay satisfied for longer.

2. Reducing Hunger Signals

Our gut and brain constantly “talk” to each other about when we’re hungry or full. Ozempic activates GLP-1 receptors in the brain, which can lower appetite and quiet constant food thoughts (sometimes called “food noise”).

3. Improving Insulin Response

For people with diabetes or weight issues, the body may not respond well to insulin, the hormone that moves sugar into cells for energy. This is called insulin resistance. Ozempic helps the pancreas release more insulin, which lowers blood sugar and improves how the body uses sugar. This can reduce fat storage and support weight loss.

How To Use Ozempic

Check the medicine

  • Look through the pen window. Ensure Ozempic® medicine in your pen is clear and colorless.

Attach a new needle

  • Take a new needle and remove the paper tab.
  • Push and twist the needle onto the pen until it’s tight.
  • The needle has two caps — remove both before use.

Check the flow (only the first time you use a new pen)

  • Turn the dose dial until you see the flow check symbol (••).
  • Press and hold the button until the counter shows “0”.
  • A small drop should appear at the needle tip — this means the pen is ready.

Inject your dose

  • Turn the dose dial to your prescribed amount (0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, or 1 mg).
  • Insert the needle into your skin (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm) — not into muscle or vein. Change the injection site each time (rotate spots within the same area if needed).
  • Press and hold the button until the counter shows “0”.
  • Keep holding and count slowly to 6 before removing the needle.

After the injection

  • Carefully remove and dispose needle.
  • Put the cap back on the pen to keep it clean and protected.

What To Do When You Missed A Dose?

  • If you miss a dose of Ozempic®, take the missed dose as soon as possible within 5 days after the missed dose
  • If more than 5 days have passed, skip the missed dose and take your next dose on your regularly scheduled day

How To Store Ozempic

Storage Conditions
New, unused Ozempic pensStore in the refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze.
Used Ozempic pensStore at room temperature between 15°C to 30°C or in the refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze. Discard after 56 days/8 weeks.

When stored in the refrigerator, do not store Ozempic pens directly next to the cooling element.

Potential Common Side Effects of Ozempic And Tips To Manage

When starting Ozempic® or increasing your dose, you may notice some mild stomach-related side effects. These can include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea

These effects are usually temporary and often improve as your body adjusts. Here are some tips that may help:

  • Follow your provider’s dose escalation schedule. Common side effects tend to be most intense when a person first starts Ozempic or when they move up to the next dose strength. Starting at higher doses or jumping dose strengths can increase your risk for more severe side effects.
  • Stay hydrated. GI side effects like diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps prevent dehydration.
  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals that are bland and low in fat. This may help mitigate nausea and other GI discomfort as your body adjusts.
  • Ask your doctor about anti-nausea meds. Your provider may recommend a prescription or over-the-counter medication to help with nausea and vomiting.

Where to buy Ozempic in Singapore

Ozempic, like other GLP-1 medications, is available only by prescription. To obtain it, you must consult a doctor to determine your eligibility for the treatment.

At Siena, our doctors are best equipped with the knowledge to determine if and which weight loss medication is best suited for you. Connect with one of our doctors via an online video consultation and if prescribed, we deliver your treatment plan right to you in a discreet packaging.

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Uncategorized

Guide to Weight Loss Injectables in Singapore: Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro

Guide to Weight Loss Injectables in Singapore

Weight management is a common challenge in Singapore, and for many individuals, diet and exercise alone may not deliver sustainable results. Today, medical weight loss treatments in Singapore include injectable medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. These drugs target hormones that regulate appetite, satiety, and blood sugar, making them effective tools for both weight reduction and metabolic health.

Ozempic (Semaglutide)

Ozempic was first approved for type 2 diabetes but has shown strong results in supporting weight loss. Many weight loss clinics in Singapore prescribe it off-label for patients who have struggled with conventional methods. By slowing gastric emptying and reducing appetite, Ozempic helps patients eat less and feel fuller for longer.

Wegovy (Semaglutide)

Wegovy is a higher-dose version of semaglutide, specifically approved for weight management. Clinical studies reveal that patients on Wegovy, when combined with a structured lifestyle plan, can lose 15% or more of their body weight. For those exploring GLP-1 weight loss injections in Singapore, Wegovy is often considered the gold standard.

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)

Mounjaro is the latest injectable treatment and differs from traditional GLP-1 receptor agonists by activating both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. This dual mechanism may deliver even greater results compared to single-action treatments like Ozempic or Wegovy.

Summary of Comparison: Ozempic vs Wegovy vs Mounjaro

Ozempic (semaglutide)Wegovy (semaglutide)Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
ManufacturerNovo NordiskNovo NordiskEli Lilly & Co.
FDA ApprovedDecember 2017June 2021May 2022
DeliveryOne weekly injectionOne weekly injectionOne weekly injection
Dose range0.25-2mg0.25-2.4mg2.5 – 15mg
TargetsGLP-1GLP-1GLP-1 and GIP
Most common potential side effectsNausea, diarrhea, vomiting,
abdominal pain		Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomitingNausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting
Average weight loss in clinical trials6.1% of body weight after 52 weeks (1mg)14.9% of body weight after 68 weeks (2.4mg)22.5% of body weight after 72 weeks (15mg)

Where to buy Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro in Singapore?

Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are prescription-only medications in Singapore.

Before starting, a doctor will review your BMI, medical history, and weight-related health risks to determine the most suitable option. While effective, they are not one-size-fits-all solutions. The best results come from medical supervision, individualised treatment, and ongoing support.

Conclusion: Safe and Effective Pathways to Weight Management

Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro provide new opportunities for patients in Singapore to achieve meaningful weight loss under medical guidance.

👉 If you are exploring weight loss treatments in Singapore, speak with our doctors to learn whether these injectables are the right fit for your health journey.

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Skin Uncategorized

Guide To Acne Treatments Prescribed By Dermatologists In Singapore

Credit: Siena Health

While there are tons of home remedies or over-the-counter (drug store) acne products out there that promise help, not all of them are backed by research and they may not work for stubborn/more severe acne.

In this article, we share the common acne treatments prescribed by dermatologists, their costs and how/where to get them in Singapore.

What Causes Acne? 

Acne vulgaris (medical term for acne) forms when a combination of sebum and dead skin cells build up in your pores and hair follicles, creating a blockage.

Your sebaceous glands create sebum to lubricate your skin and hair. Under normal circumstances, this is a good thing because this sebum also forms a barrier on your skin, protecting it from things like bacteria and other harmful environmental factors.

However, certain things can cause your body to kick its sebum production into high gear, which can lead to blocked pores, pimples, blemishes, and acne. 

Why Use Prescription Acne Medication?

While over-the-counter acne medications are effective at managing minor outbreaks of facial acne, many people experience persistent/more severe acne that just doesn’t go away with regular, store-bought treatments.

Prescription Strength Acne MedicationPrescription Strength Acne Medication
PotencyLow concentrationMore powerful with higher concentrations of active ingredients
AvailabilityCan be bought off the shelfAvailable by prescription only, after a doctor’s evaluation
UsageFor general public useIntended to be used by one person (patient himself/herself)
Over-the-counter Acne Products vs Prescription Strength Acne Medication

Common Acne Treatments Prescribed By Dermatologists

Acne can occur for a variety of reasons, ranging from skin bacteria to excessive levels of sebum production. Because of this, there are several different types of prescription drugs used to treat acne. And for each of those specific drug types, there are specific drugs that fall under them.

Prescription Topical Treatments (Gel/Cream)

Ingredient(s)How it works
AdapaleneAdapalene is a retinoid, a form of vitamin A. It works by exfoliating the skin (removing dead skin cells) to prevent blocked pores and soothes inflammation.

Known brands: Differin
Adapalene + Benzoyl peroxideAdapalene is a type of retinoid. It works by exfoliating the skin (removing dead skin cells) to prevent blocked pores and soothes inflammation. Benzoyl peroxide is an antimicrobial agent that works to soften and peel the skin’s outer layer as well as tackle the microbes which can trigger acne.

Known brands: Epiduo gel 0.1%/2.5% pump
ClindamycinClindamycin is an antibiotic that kills acne-causing bacteria. 

Known brands: Dalacin T gel
Clindamycin + Benzoyl peroxideClindamycin is an antibiotic that kills acne-causing bacteria. Benzoyl peroxide is an antimicrobial agent that works to soften and peel the skin’s outer layer as well as tackle the microbes which can trigger acne.

Known brands: Clindoxyl
Tretinoin Tretinoin is a retinoid, a form of vitamin A. It works by exfoliating the skin (removing dead skin cells) to prevent blocked pores and soothes inflammation. 

The main difference between Tretinoin and Adapalene is that Adapalene is used for acne, while Tretinoin can be used for acne and hyperpigmentation.

Known brands:
Stieva-A 0.025%, Stieva-A 0.05%, Retacnyl 0.025%, Retacnyl 0.025%
Common Topical Acne Medications Prescribed by Derms

Prescription Oral Medications

For mild to moderate acne, topical treatments alone can generally calm a breakout. However, in moderate to severe cases, oral medications may be prescribed to treat stubborn acne. 

Ingredient(s)How it works
DoxycyclineDoxycycline is an antibiotic that suppresses the growth of acne bacteria and decreases inflammation.

Known brands: Medomycin
Combination birth control pillsWomen with hormonal acne may be treated with combination birth control pills. These medications regulate hormones that can cause acne through a decrease in oil production.

Known brands: Yaz, Drospera (Generic Yaz), Yasmin, Liza (Generic Yasmin), Diane-35
SpironolactoneFor women with hormonal acne, Spironolactone slows down the body’s production of androgen hormones, such as testosterone. These hormones can make the skin produce too much oil, which clogs pores and causes acne. 

Known brands: Uractonum
IsotretinoinIsotretinoin is a potent oral medication that reduces the amount of sebum (oil) produced by the glands in the skin and clears inflammation. The use of Isotretinoin requires careful monitoring due to potential side effects.

Known brands: Acnotin, Accutane, Roaccutane, Oratane
Common Oral Acne Medications Prescribed by Derms

Which Acne Medication is Best For You?

The best acne medication for an individual can vary depending on various factors, including the type and severity of acne, skin type, medical history, and individual response to different treatments.

Because of this, there’s no “best” acne medication for everyone. The best approach is to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional who can evaluate your specific situation and provide tailored treatment options to help you manage your acne effectively.

Your provider may prescribe topical medication(s), oral medication(s) or a combination of both to address different aspects of acne formation, such as bacteria, inflammation, and excessive oil production.

Cost Of Acne Medications In Singapore

For most cases of mild to moderate acne conditions, the costs are relatively cheaper. Treating cystic acne may take a longer time as the chances of recurrence are higher.

At Siena, we offer a customised acne treatment plan based on your needs and budget:

  • Tele-consultation: $20
  • Topical medication: from $38
  • Oral antibiotics: from $24/month
  • Oral hormonal medication: from $12/month
  • Oral retinoids: from $68.50/month
  • Delivery: $0

Depending on the severity of the acne condition, the price will vary.

How To Get Prescribed Acne Medication

Traditionally for prescription products, you’d have to visit a medical provider in person to get a prescription. 

But now, thanks to the internet and technology, you can access prescription acne medication via virtual medical visits at Siena, a MOH-approved telemedicine provider. 

Telemedicine For Acne In Singapore

Whether you are struggling with hormonal acne, adult acne, cystic acne, persistent acne etc, simply answer an online medication evaluation to book a tele-consultation session ($20) with a licensed doctor at your convenience. If prescribed, your medication will be delivered discreetly, at no additional cost.

References

Acne (2012). Retrieved from https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/acne

Physiology, Sebaceous Glands, (2021). Stat Pearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499819/

Makrantonaki, E, Ganceviciene, Zouboulis, C (2011, Jan-March). An update on the role of the sebaceous gland in the pathogenesis of acne. Dermato Endocrinology. 3(1), 41-49. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3051853/

Zeichner, J. A., Baldwin, H. E., Cook-Bolden, F. E., Eichenfield, L. F., Fallon-Friedlander, S., & Rodriguez, D. A. (2017). Emerging Issues in Adult Female Acne. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology, 10(1), 37–46.retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5300732/

Koster, M.I. (2009, July). Making an epidermis. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences. 1170, 7-10. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2861991/

Acne: Tips for Managing. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/skin-care/tips

Clindamycin Topical. (2016, October 15). Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a609005.html

Tretinoin Topical. (2019, March 15). Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682437.html

Baldwin, H. (2020). Oral Antibiotic Treatment Options for Acne Vulgaris. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 13 (9), 26–32. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7577330/

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Sexual Health Uncategorized

Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Symptoms, Causes, Treatments In Singapore

Are your erections, or rather, lack thereof, causing disappointing nights for you? We’ve got you covered! Here’s a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about erectile dysfunction.

What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED), sometimes known as impotence, refers to the inability to get or sustain an erection that is firm enough for sex. It is one of the most common sexual problems that men encounter. In fact, a study published by the Singapore Medical Journal has revealed that among Singaporean men above the age of 30, about 1 in 2 of them have had ED at some point in their lives. 

Symptoms of erectile dysfunction

If your penis fails to perk up very occasionally, chances are it is completely normal, especially if you’re recently feeling a little stressed out. However, if you routinely have difficulty getting or maintaining your erection, you might want to get it checked out – it may be ED. Some men also find themselves losing interest in sexual activities or having lower self-esteem about their erections. These psychological factors may ultimately result in ED.

The mechanics of erectile dysfunction

Imagine someone filling up a balloon with water. The balloon expands in size and becomes more turgid. Likewise, when a man is sexually aroused, your brain sends signals which cause blood to flow into your penis. Blood fills up spongy tissues, known as corpora cavernosa, causing the penis to become more rigid.

Now, imagine if the tap that you are using to fill the balloon is faulty. Water flows out so slowly that there isn’t enough force to stretch and fill up the balloon. That’s exactly how ED works. When blood flow to your penis is blocked or slowed down, your penis remains flaccid. Other causes of ED may be a disruption in brain signals arising from depression, anxiety or stress. 

Causes of erectile dysfunction

You might have heard that ED is “all in your head”. For many years, experts believed that emotional and psychological problems were the sole causes of ED. Well, this is partially correct and partially wrong. Here’s the truth – ED can be caused by a multitude of factors, including emotional, physical, lifestyle factors and many more. 

Psychological and emotional causes of erectile dysfunction

Your brain plays a key role in a good erection. It is responsible for feelings of sexual excitement, as well as transmitting nerve signals to allow blood flow to your penis. The common psychological culprits of poor erection include: 

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Stress
  • Low self-esteem
  • Guilt
  • Performance anxiety
  • Relationship conflicts

Physical causes of erectile dysfunction

Contrary to popular belief, ED is not “all in your head”. Any chronic disease that decreases blood flow can result in ED. If you have any chronic diseases, it is important to keep them under control. Common diseases include:

  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol

Besides those mentioned above, there are also other less common, albeit more serious diseases that can contribute to ED. These include: 

  • Hormonal imbalance
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH)

Does old age cause erectile dysfunction?

Is age just a number in the onset and progression of ED? Well, maybe, maybe not. Although ED becomes more common with age, growing old does not always cause ED. Some men remain sexually functional, even in their 80s. On the other hand, younger men, including teenagers, can have ED due to lifestyle factors such as drinking, smoking and overall health.

Treatments for erectile dysfunction

Depending on what caused your ED, you may be recommended for different treatment options. Most ED pills belong to a class of medication known as “phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors)”. To put their mechanism of action in simple terms, these pills cause your blood vessels to relax, increasing the blood flow to the penis. 

Different pills follow different treatment schedules. Generally, ED pills can be categorised into two groups: the as-needed pills and the daily pills. 

As-needed pills/strips

These pills/strips are taken prior to any sexual activity. They are recommended for men who are able to predict when they have sex or men who do not wish to take pills daily. 

  • Viagra® (Sildenafil), also known as the blue pill. These pills were the first FDA-approved oral treatment for ED. 
  • Generic Sildenafil. These pills contain the same ingredient and work exactly the same as its branded option, Viagra®. In comparison with Viagra®, generic sildenafil is much more affordable and wouldn’t burn a hole in your wallet. Generic sildenafil is also the most popular treatment option at Siena.
  • Spedra® (Avanafil). These pills are great for men who prefer spontaneity. They are fast-acting and are effective just 15 minutes after taking them.
  • Cialis® (Tadalafil) 20mg. These pills are long-lasting and are effective for up to 36 hours after taking them. 
  • Tadalafil 20mg. These pills contain the same ingredient and work exactly the same as its branded option, Cialis®. But cheaper!
  • Caliberi® Tadalafil Orodispersible Films 20mg. These strips contain the same ingredient and work exactly the same as Cialis® but dissolve on your tongue.
  • Levitra® (Vardenafil). These pills are the branded alternatives to Viagra®, the blue pill.

Daily pills

These ED pills are to be taken every day. They work best for men who don’t like to plan ahead and want to be ready around the clock.

Other treatment options

Other options include testosterone therapy if you have low testosterone, penile injections, vacuum erection devices, intraurethral medications, penile implants or even surgery.

Lifestyle changes for better performance

Keeping a healthy lifestyle not only boosts your overall health, but also your sexual health. Here are some tips that you can follow: 

  • Keep a heart-healthy diet: A poor diet that is full of fats and sugars can lead to clogged arteries, diabetes and heart disease, which eventually spirals into ED. Reduce fats and sugars while incorporating more vegetables and fruits into your diet. 
  • Stay within your healthy weight range: If you are overweight, it’s best that you shake off that excess weight.
  • Exercise regularly: Not only does exercise promote blood circulation, it is also amazing at alleviating stress. In short, exercise targets both root causes of ED. Having 30 minutes of exercise for at least 5 days a week is bound to boost your health and energy, both in and out of the bedroom.
  • Quit smoking and drinking: As both smoking and drinking increase your risk of ED, we recommend that you sever your ties with them. Trust us, your body and penis will thank you. 

Finding the best treatment for erectile dysfunction

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for ED. To choose the best treatment option for yourself, take into account your lifestyle, preferences, medical history and affordability. If you’re experiencing ED, it’s a good idea to speak to a doctor at Siena. They’ll help you find the solution that’s right for you, and potentially catch other health problems before they become severe.

References