Does Ozempic cause burning sensation on skin? Ozempic (semaglutide) is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist widely prescribed in the UK for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Whilst burning skin sensations are not listed amongst the common adverse effects in the Summary of Product Characteristics, localised injection site reactions—including redness, itching, and discomfort—are well documented. Generalised burning sensations may have alternative explanations, including coincidental skin conditions, diabetic neuropathy, or rare hypersensitivity reactions. Any new or concerning skin symptoms warrant discussion with a healthcare professional to ensure appropriate assessment and management.

Does Ozempic Cause Burning Sensation on Skin?

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist licensed in the UK for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Burning sensations on the skin are not listed amongst the common adverse effects in the Ozempic Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) available on the electronic medicines compendium (emc).

There is no established causal link between Ozempic and generalised burning skin sensations in clinical trial data. However, localised reactions at injection sites—such as redness, itching, or discomfort—are well documented and affect a proportion of users. It is important to distinguish between injection site reactions, which are recognised side effects, and more widespread skin symptoms, which may have alternative explanations.

Patients experiencing burning sensations should consider several factors: the timing of symptom onset in relation to starting Ozempic, whether the sensation is localised or widespread, and the presence of other symptoms such as rash, swelling, or systemic features. In many cases, skin discomfort may be coincidental or related to other conditions, medications, or lifestyle factors. Nonetheless, any new or concerning symptoms warrant discussion with a healthcare professional to ensure appropriate assessment and management.

If you suspect Ozempic may be causing skin symptoms, you should discuss this with your healthcare provider. Suspected side effects can also be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme (yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk).

Understanding Ozempic and Its Common Side Effects

Ozempic contains semaglutide, a long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist administered once weekly via subcutaneous injection. It works by mimicking the action of endogenous GLP-1, a hormone that enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite. These mechanisms contribute to improved glycaemic control and, in many patients, significant weight loss. The MHRA licensed Ozempic for type 2 diabetes in 2018, and it has since become widely prescribed across the UK.

The most frequently reported adverse effects of Ozempic are gastrointestinal in nature. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and abdominal pain are experienced by a substantial proportion of patients, particularly during dose escalation. According to the SmPC, these are classified as 'very common' (affecting more than 1 in 10 people). These symptoms typically diminish over time as the body adapts to the medication. Other common side effects include:

• Hypoglycaemia (especially when used with insulin or sulfonylureas)

• Fatigue and dizziness

• Headache

• Injection site reactions (pain, redness, itching)

• Gallbladder problems including gallstones

Serious but rare adverse effects include pancreatitis, diabetic retinopathy complications (particularly in patients with pre-existing retinopathy when glycaemic control improves rapidly), and potential thyroid C-cell tumours (observed in rodent studies, though human relevance remains uncertain). Allergic reactions, whilst uncommon, can occur and may manifest with skin symptoms such as rash, itching, or swelling.

Understanding the established side effect profile helps contextualise reports of burning skin sensations. Whilst not a hallmark feature of semaglutide therapy, individual patient responses can vary, and atypical reactions may occasionally occur. Clinicians should maintain a broad differential diagnosis when evaluating new symptoms in patients taking Ozempic.

Skin Reactions Associated with Ozempic Use

Injection site reactions are the most commonly documented skin-related adverse effects of Ozempic. According to the SmPC, these are classified as 'common' (affecting up to 1 in 10 people) and typically present as:

• Erythema (redness)

• Pruritus (itching)

• Swelling or induration

• Mild pain or tenderness

• Bruising

These reactions are generally mild, self-limiting, and resolve within a few days without specific intervention. They result from the mechanical trauma of injection, the subcutaneous depot of medication, or individual tissue sensitivity. Rotating injection sites between the abdomen, thigh, and upper arm—as recommended in the Patient Information Leaflet—can minimise the frequency and severity of localised reactions.

Beyond injection sites, generalised skin symptoms such as burning sensations, widespread itching, or altered sensation (paraesthesia) are not well characterised in the clinical trial literature for semaglutide. Post-marketing surveillance has documented reports of such experiences. Potential explanations include:

• Allergic or hypersensitivity reactions: Rarely, patients may develop urticaria (hives), angioedema, or pruritus as part of an immune response to semaglutide or excipients in the formulation.

• Neuropathic changes: Rapid improvements in glycaemic control can occasionally precipitate treatment-induced neuropathy of diabetes (TIND), characterised by burning, tingling, or painful sensations, particularly in the extremities. This is rare and not specific to semaglutide.

• Coincidental dermatological conditions: Eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, or other skin disorders may emerge or worsen independently of Ozempic use.

• Underlying diabetic neuropathy: Burning or tingling sensations may represent diabetic peripheral neuropathy, which can fluctuate with glycaemic control.

Clinicians should conduct a thorough assessment, including examination of the skin, review of concomitant medications (including long-term metformin use, which may cause B12 deficiency and neuropathic symptoms), and consideration of alternative diagnoses before attributing symptoms solely to semaglutide.

When to Seek Medical Advice About Skin Symptoms

Patients experiencing burning sensations or other skin symptoms whilst taking Ozempic should seek medical advice if any of the following features are present:

Urgent or emergency assessment is required if:

• Signs of anaphylaxis or severe allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, rapid pulse, dizziness, or collapse. This constitutes a medical emergency—call 999 immediately.

• Widespread rash with systemic features: fever, malaise, mucosal involvement, or blistering/peeling skin, which may indicate a serious drug reaction.

• Severe, unrelenting pain or burning: particularly if associated with neurological symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or loss of function.

• Signs of injection site infection: spreading redness, increasing pain, warmth, pus, or fever.

Routine GP consultation is advisable if:

• Burning sensations persist beyond a few days or progressively worsen

• Skin symptoms are accompanied by itching, rash, or visible changes

• Injection site reactions become increasingly severe or fail to resolve

• New symptoms develop that cause significant distress or impair quality of life

• There is uncertainty about whether symptoms are related to Ozempic or another cause

During the consultation, the GP will take a detailed history, examine the affected areas, and review the temporal relationship between starting Ozempic and symptom onset. Investigations may include blood tests (to assess glycaemic control, inflammatory markers, thyroid function, or vitamin B12 levels), and referral to dermatology or neurology if indicated. In some cases, a trial of temporarily discontinuing Ozempic—under medical supervision—may help clarify causation, though this decision must balance the benefits of continued diabetes management against symptom burden.

Managing Skin Discomfort While Taking Ozempic

For patients experiencing mild, localised injection site reactions, several practical strategies can reduce discomfort:

Injection technique optimisation:

• Rotate injection sites systematically to avoid repeated trauma to the same area

• Ensure the skin is clean and dry; avoid injecting through clothing

• Use a swift, confident injection technique rather than hesitant, slow insertion

• Avoid injecting into areas with scarring, bruising, or active skin lesions

• Always use a new needle for each injection and follow local guidance for safe sharps disposal

Post-injection care:

• Apply a cool compress (not ice directly on skin) to reduce swelling or discomfort

• Avoid rubbing or massaging the injection site immediately afterwards

• Wear loose-fitting clothing to minimise irritation

For generalised burning or itching:

• Emollients and moisturisers: Regular application of fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturisers can soothe dry or irritated skin

• Antihistamines: Over-the-counter oral antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, loratadine) may provide relief if itching is prominent. Note that some antihistamines can cause drowsiness. Consult a pharmacist or GP before starting new medications

• Avoid triggers: Hot baths, harsh soaps, and synthetic fabrics can exacerbate skin sensitivity

If symptoms are suspected to represent an allergic reaction, the GP may prescribe topical corticosteroids or recommend discontinuation of Ozempic with transition to an alternative diabetes therapy. NICE guidance on type 2 diabetes management (NG28) outlines numerous alternative agents, including other GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors, or DPP-4 inhibitors, depending on individual patient factors and treatment goals. Tolerability varies between individuals, and treatment should be tailored to each patient's needs.

Patients should never discontinue Ozempic abruptly without medical guidance, as this may lead to deterioration in glycaemic control. Open communication with the diabetes care team ensures that any treatment adjustments are made safely and appropriately, balancing efficacy with tolerability.

Remember to report any suspected side effects to the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme (yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk).

Frequently Asked Questions