Semaglutide
Also known as: Ozempic, Wegovy
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved by the FDA as Ozempic (type 2 diabetes) and Wegovy (obesity). It is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection.
Overview
Semaglutide is a 31-amino-acid GLP-1 analogue developed by Novo Nordisk with structural modifications — fatty acid attachment and amino acid substitutions — that extend its half-life to approximately 7 days by promoting albumin binding and resisting DPP-IV degradation. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, it stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite through hypothalamic signaling. FDA approval for type 2 diabetes as Ozempic came in 2017; approval for chronic weight management as Wegovy (higher dose) came in 2021. An oral formulation (Rybelsus) received approval in 2019. Semaglutide's robust Phase 3 trial data includes cardiovascular outcome trials showing mortality benefit.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Ozempic and Wegovy?+
Both are semaglutide, but Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes (0.5–2 mg doses) and Wegovy is approved for chronic weight management at higher doses (2.4 mg). The active compound is identical.
How often is Semaglutide injected?+
Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) is a once-weekly subcutaneous injection due to its ~7-day half-life. Oral Semaglutide (Rybelsus) is taken once daily.
How much weight loss does Semaglutide produce in clinical trials?+
The STEP trials showed Wegovy (2.4 mg semaglutide) produced approximately 15% body weight reduction over 68 weeks in adults with obesity, compared to ~2.5% in the placebo group.