Semaglutide
Semaglutide
Semaglutide is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It is primarily used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes but has also been approved for weight management.
Semaglutide works by mimicking the effects of a hormone called GLP-1, which is naturally produced in the body. It activates the GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas, leading to increased insulin secretion, decreased glucagon release, slowed gastric emptying, and increased feelings of fullness.
In addition to its use in diabetes, semaglutide has been approved as a treatment for chronic weight management. Semaglutide helps to reduce appetite, increase feelings of fullness, and promote weight loss.
The most common side effects of semaglutide include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. These side effects are usually mild and tend to improve over time. Rare but more serious side effects may include pancreatitis and thyroid tumors.
Semaglutide is not recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). It should be used with caution in patients with a history of pancreatitis or those at risk of diabetic retinopathy.
The ideal candidates for semaglutide are adults who are overweight or obese and have one or more of the following:
- A body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater
- A BMI of 27 or greater and have a weight-related medical condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol
- Have tried other weight loss methods without success
