Introduction to Semaglutide
Semaglutide is an injectable medication used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.
Semaglutide helps lower blood sugar levels by stimulating the release of insulin when blood sugar is high, slowing digestion to reduce the rate at which sugar enters the bloodstream, and suppressing appetite. It is typically prescribed when other diabetes medications are not providing adequate glycemic control.
Some key points about semaglutide:
- Administered via subcutaneous injection
- Long-acting - one injection per week
- Improves HbA1c levels (a measure of long-term blood sugar control)
- Promotes weight loss
- Lowers risk of cardiovascular events
- Generally well-tolerated, with gastrointestinal side effects being most common
In 2021, semaglutide was approved by the FDA for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight as an adjunct to lifestyle intervention. When prescribed specifically for weight loss rather than diabetes, semaglutide is sold under the brand name Wegovy.