What Is Semaglutide?
Category: Peptide
A GLP-1 receptor agonist used for weight management and type 2 diabetes. The active ingredient in brand-name medications Ozempic and Wegovy. Administered once weekly.
Detailed Explanation
Semaglutide is an FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics the incretin hormone GLP-1. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes (marketed as Ozempic), it was later approved at higher doses for chronic weight management (as Wegovy). Semaglutide has a structural modification (an albumin-binding fatty acid chain) that extends its half-life to approximately 7 days, enabling convenient once-weekly dosing. Clinical trials demonstrated average weight loss of 15-17% of body weight.
Practical Context
Semaglutide requires careful dose titration: start at 250mcg per week and increase by 250mcg every 4 weeks, up to a typical maximum of 2,000-2,500mcg per week. This slow titration minimizes gastrointestinal side effects (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea). The peptide should be stored refrigerated and administered subcutaneously on the same day each week. Maintaining adequate protein intake is important during semaglutide use to minimize muscle loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much weight can I expect to lose?
Clinical trials showed average weight loss of 15-17% of body weight over 68 weeks at the full therapeutic dose. Individual results vary based on diet, exercise, starting weight, and other factors.
What are the most common side effects?
Gastrointestinal effects are most common: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain. These typically improve over time and with proper titration.
Related Peptides
- Semaglutide - A GLP-1 receptor agonist used for weight management and blood sugar control. (Dosage | Calculator)
- Tirzepatide - A dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist for weight management. (Dosage | Calculator)
- AOD-9604 - A modified fragment of human growth hormone targeting fat metabolism. (Dosage | Calculator)
Related Terms
- GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) - A gut hormone that regulates appetite, blood sugar, and gastric emptying. GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide mimic this hormone for weight management.
- Tirzepatide - A dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist for weight management and type 2 diabetes. Clinical trials showed up to 22.5% body weight reduction. Brand names include Mounjaro and Zepbound.
- Titration - The process of gradually increasing a medication dose over time. Essential for GLP-1 agonists to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Typically involves increasing the dose every 4 weeks.
- Half-Life - The time it takes for half of a substance to be eliminated from the body. Determines dosing frequency - shorter half-life peptides need more frequent dosing.