Semaglutide
Key Uses
Semaglutide is FDA-approved for several conditions in adults, always used in conjunction with a reduced–calorie diet and increased physical activity.
- Type 2 Diabetes: It helps manage blood sugar (glucose) levels by prompting the pancreas to release the right amount of insulin when levels are high.
- Weight Management: It is approved for individuals with obesity (BMI ≥30) or those who are overweight (BMI ≥27) with at least one weight-related condition (e.g., high blood pressure, high cholesterol).
- Cardiovascular and Kidney Risk Reduction: In patients with type 2 diabetes and existing heart or kidney disease, semaglutide is used to lower the risk of major adverse cardiovascularevents (like heart attack, stroke, or death) and to slow the worsening of kidney disease.
- Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH): It is also used to treat MASH with moderate to advanced liver scarring (fibrosis), but not with cirrhosis of the liver.
How It Works
Semaglutide mimics the natural GLP-1 hormone your body releases after eating. Its actions include:
- Stimulating insulin release when blood sugar is high.
- Slowing down digestion, which makes you feel full sooner and for longer periods, reducing appetite and food intake.
- Reducing the amount of sugar released by the liver into the bloodstream.
Administration and Brands
Semaglutide is available in two forms:
- Injection: Administered once weekly subcutaneously (under the skin) in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Brand names include Ozempic and Wegovy.
- Oral Tablet: Taken once daily on an empty stomach with a small amount of water at least 30 minutes before other food, drinks, or medications. The brand name for the tablet form is Rybelsus.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects are gastrointestinal in nature and generally mild to moderate.
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
Important Considerations
- Semaglutide is a prescription-only medication and must be used under a healthcare provider’s supervision.
- It is generally well-tolerated, but is contraindicated in patients with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2.
- The FDA has warned against the use of compounded or counterfeit semaglutide products, as their safety and efficacy are unproven.
- For individuals with commercial insurance, monthly costs can be low with discount programs, but without insurance, costs can range from approximately $991 to over $1,300 per month.
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