Semaglutide
Mimics gut hormone to reduce appetite
- Weight Loss/Fat Loss (GLP-1)
Thyroid C-cell tumor (boxed warning): Contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2) — based on rodent carcinogenicity data; human relevance is uncertain Pancreatitis: Discontinue if pancreatitis is suspected; monitor for persistent severe abdominal pain; do not restart if confirmed Gallbladder disease: Increased rates of cholelithiasis and acute cholecystitis reported; use with caution in patients with prior gallbladder disease Muscle loss: Significant lean mass loss may occur during weight reduction; resistance training and adequate protein intake (≥1g/lb body weight) strongly recommended throughout the cycle Hypoglycemia risk: When combined with insulin or sulfonylureas, risk of hypoglycemia is increased; dose reduction of the insulin/sulfonylurea may be required NAION signal: Post-marketing reports suggest a possible association with Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION); report new-onset visual symptoms promptly
Mechanism of Action
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that binds to and activates GLP-1 receptors throughout the body. This activation mimics the effects of the naturally occurring incretin hormone GLP-1, which is released after eating and signals satiety to the brain while also enhancing insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells in a glucose-dependent manner. Key Pathways: GLP-1 receptor activation in hypothalamic appetite centers reducing hunger and food intake, Glucose-dependent insulin secretion enhancement from pancreatic beta cells, Delayed gastric emptying prolonging satiety signals, Vascular smooth muscle GLP-1 receptor activation affecting blood pressure and renal function The appetite-suppressing effects through central GLP-1 receptor activation, combined with slowed gastric emptying, lead to significant reductions in caloric intake and subsequent weight loss. Studies demonstrate particularly notable reductions in visceral adipose tissue, which is metabolically significant. The cardiovascular benefits appear to involve direct vascular effects through smooth muscle GLP-1 receptors, contributing to blood pressure reduction and improved renal function.
Common Dose Reference Ranges
Educational reference ranges only — discuss actual dosing with a qualified healthcare provider.
Full Semaglutide protocols — frequency, timing, cycle length, reconstitution & research
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Injection site reactions
- Decreased appetite
- Fatigue