Brand illustration · not a molecular model
01 / What is it?
What is it?
Semaglutide is a once-weekly medicine that acts like a natural hormone called GLP-1. It helps control blood sugar, slows digestion and sends signals to the brain that you are full.
The signalling chain
Follow the connection.
A simplified view of the proposed or studied pathway for Semaglutide.
Semaglutide
Why do people find it interesting?
Semaglutide can reduce hunger and help with weight loss. It is important to distinguish between brands and approved uses: in the EU, Ozempic is authorised for type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is the semaglutide product authorised for weight management.
What might you notice?
You may feel less hungry, become full more quickly and think less about food. Nausea, bloating, heartburn and constipation can occur, especially during the first weeks or after a dose increase.
What happens in your body?
Semaglutide slows how quickly food leaves the stomach, sends fullness signals to the brain and helps the body release insulin when blood sugar is high. Weight loss varies greatly between people and depends on the product, dose, treatment period and individual circumstances.
How long does it work?
Semaglutide is designed for once-weekly use. When treatment stops, its effects on hunger gradually reduce and weight can increase again.
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Important to know
The “mg” printed on a pen or vial means how much medicine is in the whole pen, not how much you inject each time; each weekly dose is only a small part of this. You should not take two doses close together or “double” your dose to make up for one you missed, because this can cause strong side effects and is not safe.
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Dose information from the guide
Doses start very low and step up every 4 weeks. This helps the stomach get used to the drug. The semaglutide dose usually ranges from 0.25 mg weekly (a typical starting dose) up to 2.4 mg, though it may shift because of your experience with the medication.
Look beyond the name
Similar is not the same.
This profile is general information, not medical advice or a recommendation to use a substance. Research findings and individual responses differ. Read the full scope.