Semaglutide is an injectable medication for treating type 2 diabetes and weight management. It belongs to a class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. Semaglutide stimulates the GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas, which leads to increased insulin secretion in response to elevated blood sugar levels. It also reduces the release of glucagon, a hormone that raises lower blood sugar levels. Clinical trials have shown that Semaglutide, when used at higher doses for weight management, can lead to significant weight loss in participants. This makes it a valuable option for individuals struggling with genetic or conditional weight retention. This innovative therapy aims to improve blood sugar control and weight management by leveraging the synergistic effects of both GIP and GLP-1. But GLP-1 in higher amounts also interacts with the parts of the brain that suppress your appetite and signal you to feel full. When used in conjunction with diet and exercise, it can cause significant weight loss — and a reduced risk of cancer, diabetes and heart disease — in people who are obese or overweight

Semaglutide is in the class of drugs known as incretin memetics and work similarly but have some differences in mechanism and dosage. Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist and mimics the natural GLP-1 hormone in our bodies. It binds to the GLP-1 receptor to exert its effect. These medicines work by: stimulating insulin release from the pancreas when needed to help lower your blood sugar. decreasing the amount of sugar made by your liver by suppressing glucagon secretion. slowing the movement of food through your stomach (gastric emptying) which can help you feel fuller for a longer period of time, decrease your appetite and lead to weight loss. These medicines should not be used with any other GLP-1 or GIP receptor agonists. The Semaglutide we prescribe is often compounded with vitamin B6 which helps control appetite and hunger, by stimulating the thyroid function and in turn, balancing hormones and water retention.

Semaglutide is a prescription medicine used with diet and exercise to treat people with type 2 diabetes or to help people lose and maintain weight loss. It is marketed as the brand name products Ozempic, Rybelsus or Wegovy.

A 2023 study found that Tirzepatide resulted in greater weight loss than Semaglutide. Although it costs more, researchers concluded that Tirzepatide is more effective and a better value.

All doses of both semaglutide and tirzepatide can increase the risks for stomach side effects when compared to an inactive placebo, which can be nausea, vomiting, constipation and diarrhea.

The number 1 risk is pancreatitis. Drink 90 ounces of water to minimize the risk. The number 2 risk is stomach paralysis. Make sure to get 30 grams of dietary fibers pe rday, fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, avocados, barley. In studied population, risks were seen in an average of 8 out of 1000 people. This correlates to a 0.8% risk level. Both of these can manifest as severe abdominal pain. If it occurs go to the emergency room.

Semaglutide is not recommended if you have a history of medullary thyroid cancer, history of gallbladder disease, history of pancreatitis, or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2).