The Dual Faces of Semaglutide: A Comparative Analysis of Ozempic Side Effect Profiles in Western Populations and Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Semaglutide, marketed as Ozempic for type 2 diabetes and Wegovy for obesity, represents a breakthrough in metabolic disease management. This comprehensive literature review examines the comparative safety profiles and adverse event patterns of semaglutide in Western countries and Saudi Arabia, synthesizing findings from clinical trials, real-world evidence, and pharmacovigilance studies. Our analysis reveals that while gastrointestinal adverse events are universally prevalent, significant regional variations exist in side effect reporting, medication knowledge, and cultural acceptance. Western populations demonstrate higher rates of off-label use and social media-driven misinformation, whereas Saudi patients exhibit greater caution toward pharmacological interventions despite high obesity rates. The review identifies key demographic, genetic, and cultural factors influencing these disparities, including variations in healthcare infrastructure, regulatory approaches, and public awareness campaigns. These findings underscore the necessity for region-specific risk mitigation strategies and tailored patient education to optimize the safety profile of semaglutide across diverse populations. Further comparative studies are warranted to establish culturally adapted clinical guidelines for this transformative therapy.