Semaglutide

A long-acting GLP-1 agonist with large human trials behind it.

What it is

Semaglutide mimics GLP-1, a gut hormone released after eating. Unlike natural GLP-1, which breaks down in minutes, semaglutide lasts about a week per dose.

How it works

It signals the pancreas to release insulin when glucose is high, slows how quickly the stomach empties, and acts on appetite centres in the brain. People typically report feeling full sooner and thinking about food less.

What it is researched for

• Weight reduction
• Type 2 diabetes blood sugar control
• Cardiovascular risk in people with excess weight

Research status

FDA approved as a prescription medicine under brand names. Compounded and research-grade versions are not the approved product.

What to watch for

• Nausea, constipation, and reflux, worst in the first weeks after each increase
• Muscle loss if protein and resistance training are neglected
• Gallbladder problems and pancreatitis are documented risks
• Not for anyone with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN2

Storage

Keep refrigerated. Protect from light and freezing. Follow the exact reconstitution volume you used in your dosing maths.

Common questions

How fast does weight come off?

Trial averages land around 15% of body weight over 68 weeks at the highest dose. Individual results vary widely.

What happens when someone stops?

Published follow-up shows most of the lost weight returns within a year unless eating and training habits changed alongside.

Educational reference only, not medical advice.