Semaglutide
Fat LossFDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonistEstablished
FDA-approved long-acting GLP-1 agonist for type 2 diabetes (Ozempic/Rybelsus) and chronic weight management (Wegovy). Weekly injection or daily oral tablet. Not WADA-prohibited (monitoring program).
For research use only.
Key Facts
- CAS
- 910463-68-2
- Molecular Weight (MW)
- 4113.58 g/mol
- Half-life
- ~7 days
- Unit
- mcg
- Administration Route
- Subcutaneous (inj.) or oral (tablet)
- Frequency
- Once weekly
- Last updated
- 8/23/2026
- Targets
- GLP-1 receptor
Overview
FDA-approved long-acting GLP-1 agonist for type 2 diabetes (Ozempic/Rybelsus) and chronic weight management (Wegovy). Weekly injection or daily oral tablet. Not WADA-prohibited (monitoring program).
Protocol
- Dosage Range
- 0.25-2.4 mg weekly (weight loss) or 0.5-1.0 mg weekly (diabetes)
- Frequency
- Once weekly
- Cycle
- Long-term use as prescribed
- Administration Route
- Subcutaneous (inj.) or oral (tablet)
- Reconstitution Guide
- Prefilled pen - no reconstitution needed
Science
Mechanism of Action
GLP-1 receptor agonist that enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite via central pathways. Fatty-acid acylation extends half-life to about 1 week.
Targets
GLP-1 receptor
Studies
- SUSTAIN-6 CVOTโ Journal/year not available
- STEP 1 obesity trialโ Journal/year not available
Benefits
Significant weight loss (up to 15% body weight)Improved glycemic control in type 2 diabetesReduced cardiovascular riskLower blood pressureImproved lipid profile
Potential Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Decreased appetite
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Pancreatitis (rare)
- Diabetic retinopathy complications (rare)
References
- FDA Ozempic labelExternal link ยท Year โ
- STEP 1 PMID 33567185External link ยท Year โ