Metabolic · Body Composition · Cardiovascular
Semaglutide
Also known as: Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus, NN9535
A selective GLP-1 receptor agonist FDA-approved across type 2 diabetes, chronic weight management, and cardiovascular risk reduction in adults with overweight or obesity and cardiovascular disease.
Sign in to add to watchlistEvidence strength
Strength of human clinical evidence — A (strongest) to D (mostly preclinical). This reflects research maturity, not safety or suitability.
Vial Theory provides educational research summaries only. Content is not medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, dosing guidance, or individualized suitability screening. Regulatory status can change over time and varies by jurisdiction.
Key Takeaways
- ›Semaglutide is a once-weekly (or oral daily) GLP-1 receptor agonist with a very large Phase 3 evidence base.
- ›It is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, weight management, and cardiovascular risk reduction in select patients.
- ›Gastrointestinal side effects are most common; weight tends to return after stopping.
- ›Unregulated compounded/gray-market versions do not reflect the approved product's quality.
- ›It is a prescription medicine. Work with a licensed healthcare professional on any treatment decision.
What It Is
Semaglutide is a synthetic glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analog engineered for high selectivity at the GLP-1 receptor and an extended plasma half-life suitable for once-weekly subcutaneous administration. The molecule is fatty-acid acylated to bind albumin and incorporates amino acid substitutions that resist dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) cleavage.
Novo Nordisk developed semaglutide as a successor to liraglutide, with the half-life extension supporting weekly rather than daily dosing. An oral formulation (Rybelsus) uses the absorption enhancer SNAC (sodium N-(8-(2-hydroxybenzoyl)amino)caprylate) to enable gastric absorption of the peptide. Mechanistically, GLP-1 receptor activation enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite through central pathways including hypothalamic and brainstem circuits.
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Disclaimer: This content is for educational and research purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before making health-related decisions.