Before taking any medication, it's important to understand its purpose and how it is identified. This information is for general knowledge and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance regarding your health and medications.
Understanding the Drug Identification Number (DIN)
In Canada, a Drug Identification Number (DIN) is a unique eight-digit number assigned by Health Canada to every authorized drug product sold on the market. This number confirms the product's approval for use in Canada and provides details such as the manufacturer, active ingredients, strength, dosage form, and approved use. A DIN helps ensure the drug is safe, effective, and high-quality when used as directed.
What is DIN 02540258?
DIN 02540258 is the specific identifier for a particular formulation of Ozempic. The details for this DIN are:
- Brand Name: Ozempic®
- Active Ingredient: Semaglutide
- Manufacturer: Novo Nordisk Canada Inc.
- Dosage Form: Solution for subcutaneous injection in a pre-filled pen.
- Concentration: 0.68 mg/mL. The pen associated with this DIN contains 3 mL of this solution.
- Approval Status: This formulation is actively marketed in Canada.
Therapeutic Uses of Ozempic (Semaglutide) via DIN 02540258
Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist used in adults for several therapeutic purposes.
- Type 2 Diabetes Management: It improves glycemic control alongside diet and exercise by increasing insulin production when blood sugar is high. It's often used with other diabetes medications when needed.
- Cardiovascular Event Reduction: It is approved to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.
- Chronic Kidney Disease Progression: Health Canada has approved it to reduce the risk of kidney disease progression and cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.
The Pharmacology of Semaglutide
Semaglutide mimics the GLP-1 hormone. It provides therapeutic benefits through:
- Insulin Secretion: Enhances insulin release from the pancreas in response to high blood glucose.
- Glucagon Suppression: Reduces the release of glucagon, which raises blood sugar.
- Slowing Gastric Emptying: Delays stomach emptying, reducing post-meal blood sugar spikes and contributing to fullness.
How to Administer the Medication
Ozempic (DIN 02540258) is a once-weekly subcutaneous injection. Specific injection sites and procedures should be followed as directed by a healthcare professional and the product instructions.
- Injection Sites: Can be injected in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
- Injection Site Rotation: Rotating injection sites weekly within the same area is recommended to avoid irritation.
- Appearance: The solution should be clear and colorless. Do not use if particles or discoloration are present.
Comparison of Semaglutide Products
Semaglutide is the active ingredient in various medications, but DIN 02540258 is specific to one Canadian Ozempic product. Different formulations exist, even within the same brand.
| Feature | DIN 02540258 (Ozempic) | DIN 02528509 (Wegovy) | Other Ozempic DINs (e.g., 02471469) | U.S. Counterpart (NDC) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Semaglutide | Semaglutide | Semaglutide | Semaglutide |
| Primary Indication | Type 2 Diabetes; Cardiovascular/Renal Risk Reduction | Chronic Weight Management | Type 2 Diabetes; Cardiovascular/Renal Risk Reduction | Type 2 Diabetes (Ozempic), Weight Management (Wegovy) |
| Manufacturer | Novo Nordisk Canada Inc. | Novo Nordisk Canada Inc. | Novo Nordisk Canada Inc. | Novo Nordisk |
| Strength | 0.68 mg/mL concentration | Various strengths for weight management | Different concentration (e.g., 1.34 mg/mL) | Varies by formulation and country |
| Regulatory Market | Canada | Canada | Canada | Primarily USA (NDC) |
Important Considerations and Contraindications
Discuss your full medical history with a healthcare provider before starting Ozempic. There are important considerations and potential risks.
- Thyroid C-Cell Tumors: A boxed warning based on rodent studies notes a risk of thyroid C-cell tumors, including MTC. The human risk is unknown. Ozempic is contraindicated in patients with a history of MTC or MEN 2.
- Pancreatitis: The drug's effect in patients with a history of pancreatitis is not studied.
- Hypoglycemia: Risk increases when used with insulin or an insulin secretagogue; dose adjustment may be needed.
- Gastrointestinal Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation are common, particularly when initiating treatment or adjusting the amount administered.
Conclusion
DIN 02540258 is the Canadian identifier for a specific Ozempic formulation, a semaglutide injection by Novo Nordisk Canada Inc. It treats type 2 diabetes in adults and reduces cardiovascular and kidney risks. Its unique DIN confirms its properties and authorized status in Canada, contributing to patient safety and transparency. Always consult a healthcare professional for accurate information and guidance.
