Semaglutide
Grade AFDA-approved for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. Large randomized trials show meaningful cardiometabolic benefit.
Mechanism of Action
Long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist that potentiates glucose-dependent insulin secretion, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite via central GLP-1 signaling.
Typical Protocol
Dose
0.25 → 2.4 mg
Frequency
Weekly
Duration
Chronic, physician-supervised
Timing
Same day each week
Route
Subcutaneous weekly (oral form available)
Half-life
~7 days
Educational reference only — not medical advice.
Reported Benefits
- Significant weight reduction (STEP trials)
- HbA1c reduction
- Reduced major adverse cardiovascular events
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Lean mass loss
- Rare pancreatitis
Contraindications
- Personal/family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
- MEN-2 syndrome
- Pregnancy
Known Interactions
Insulin / sulfonylureasIncreased hypoglycemia risk — adjust dose.
Oral medicationsDelayed absorption due to slowed gastric emptying.
References
Comparison vs Alternatives
All Peptides →| Attribute | SemaglutideThis page | Retatrutide | BPC-157 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evidence | Grade A | Grade A | Grade B |
| Category | Metabolic | Metabolic | Regenerative |
| Best for | GLP-1 receptor agonist | Triple GIP/GLP-1/glucagon agonist | Tissue repair, gut integrity |
| Typical dose | 0.25 → 2.4 mg | Titrated 2 mg → 4 mg → 8 mg → 12 mg | 250–500 mcg |
| Frequency | Weekly | Once weekly | 1–2× daily |
| Route | Subcutaneous weekly (oral form available) | Subcutaneous injection | Subcutaneous or oral (gut-localized) |
| Legal status | FDA-approved (Ozempic, Wegovy). Prescription required. | Investigational; not yet FDA-approved. Currently available only via clinical trials. | Not approved by the FDA for human use. Sold as a research chemical in most jurisdictions. |
| Action | Current page | View → | View → |