Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist and is utilized in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and weight management.
It is sold under the trade names Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus
GLP-1 (Semaglutide) is mainly indicated to lower blood glucose in type 2 diabetes and aid in weight loss in obese or overweight patients.
It mimics the GLP-1 hormone, increasing insulin, decreasing glucagon release, delaying gastric emptying, and reducing appetite.
Yes, the FDA has approved Wegovy (GLP-1 (Semaglutide)) for weight control in obese and overweight adults with related medical conditions.
Dosage & Administration
It is available in both injectable (Ozempic, Wegovy) and oral (Rybelsus) forms.
The starting dose is 0.25 mg weekly, to be increased to 0.5 mg after 4 weeks, and again increased to 1 mg or 2 mg as needed.
The starting dose is 0.25 mg per week, to be increased to 2.4 mg weekly for continuation.
Rybelsus is taken once daily orally, first 3 mg for 30 days, and subsequently increased to 7 mg, with a maximum of 14 mg daily.
Injectable (Ozempic, Wegovy) can be taken with or without food. Rybelsus (oral) is best taken on an empty stomach with water.
Efficacy & Benefits
Clinical trials show that patients lose on average 10-15% body weight after 68 weeks on GLP-1 (Semaglutide).
Glycemic control is noted to improve in a matter of weeks, yet effects on weight loss are noted after some months.
Yes, but typically combined with metformin, SGLT-2 inhibitors, or insulin for better results.
Yes, studies show Ozempic reduces cardiovascular risk in patients with heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Clinical trials suggest it is safe and effective to take long-term, but ongoing monitoring is required.
Side Effects & Risks
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain are common.
Yes, but rare, severe effects are pancreatitis, kidney disease, and thyroid cancer.
In isolation, GLP-1 (Semaglutide) has negligible risk of causing hypoglycemia, but there can be when co-administered with insulin or sulfonylureas.
Yes, pancreatitis is a rare but serious side effect that can occur. If you experience violent abdominal pain, contact a doctor.
There is a risk of thyroid C-cell tumors in rats, but no human cases have been diagnosed.
Precautions & Contraindications
People with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) history, multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2), or end-stage kidney/liver disease should avoid it.
No, GLP-1 (Semaglutide) use during pregnancy is not recommended because it poses a risk to the unborn child.
We do not know if GLP-1 (Semaglutide) passes into breast milk, therefore, it's not recommended for breastfeeding mothers.
Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight reduction in adolescents above the age of 12, but others are not usually approved for children.
No, it is not used in type 1 diabetes because it does not replace insulin.
Yes, it can increase sensitivity to insulin, requiring dose modification to prevent hypoglycemia
Yes, it is frequently used with metformin for improved control of blood glucose.
No notable interactions, but weight loss due to GLP-1 (Semaglutide) may require adjustment of doses of antihypertensives
It may be used with caution with other weight loss medications to prevent excessive weight loss or side effects.
Alcohol can add to the risk of gastrointestinal side effects and blood sugar fluctuations.
Lifestyle Considerations
A low-calorie, high-nutrient diet enhances weight loss and diabetes control.
Yes, but monitor blood sugar to prevent hypoglycemia.
No, but other people may feel nauseated or fatigued, which will affect exercise.
Yes, vomiting and nausea can lead to dehydration, so drink more water.
Hair loss is not a common side effect but shock weight loss can be responsible for shedding temporarily.
Storage & Handling
Refrigerate before first use. After first use, it can be stored at room temperature for up to 56 day.
No, freezing will destroy the medicine and render it useless.
Dispose of it through local medical waste procedures or return it to a pharmacy.
It is usable with physician guidance, but dosages can be adjusted.
No definitive information, but extreme weight loss can impact fertility.
Prices are extremely volatile, but insurance plans and savings programs can reduce expenses.
No, brand-name versions only (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus) are available at present.
Take the forgotten dose if within 5 days, otherwise skip it and proceed with the next dose.
Yes, but sudden stopping may lead to weight gain or blood sugar spikes.
Compounded ones are available .
Others have mood swings, but no strong evidence is present associating it with depression.
Coverage is irregular; prescriptions for diabetes versions are likely to be covered compared to weight loss ones.
No, it is not addictive.
It depends on your health goals and doctor's advice.
Overdose may result in severe nausea, vomiting, and hypoglycemia—see a physician right away.
info@leanefy.com
Sign In