Semaglutide is a novel GLP-1 receptor agonist developed by Novo Nordisk, used to manage Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and obesity. It mimics the natural glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone, which enhances insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite, leading to better blood glucose control and significant weight loss.
It is available in injectable (Ozempic®, Wegovy®) and oral (Rybelsus®) forms, with once-weekly dosing due to its long half-life. Clinical studies have shown marked reductions in HbA1c and body weight, along with cardioprotective benefits. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
Semaglutide represents a major advancement in metabolic therapy, offering dual benefits for glycemic control and obesity management, and paving the way for future incretin-based drug innovations.
MBH/AB
Semaglutide truly reshapes diabetes and obesity care with its dual benefits. I’m particularly fascinated by how its once-weekly dosing improves patient adherence compared to daily GLP-1 analogs. Have you come across any data on its long-term cardiovascular outcomes or its potential in non-diabetic obesity treatment? It’s exciting to see how incretin-based therapies are evolving beyond glycemic control!