SIGNAL // LOADING
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Glossary term
Semaglutide
Also known as Ozempic - Wegovy - Rybelsus
The original pure GLP-1 agonist behind Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus - ~14.9% weight loss at 2.4 mg in STEP-1.
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that slows gastric emptying, suppresses appetite, and improves insulin sensitivity. STEP-1 showed ~14.9% mean weight loss at 68 weeks on 2.4 mg weekly vs ~2.4% on placebo. SUSTAIN trials show a 1.5-1.8% HbA1c drop at max dose in T2D. It has the longest post-market safety record of any GLP-1 - tens of millions of patient-years. Starts at 0.25 mg weekly and titrates across five dose steps. Available branded or compounded depending on state rules; see the tirzepatide-vs-semaglutide comparison before choosing.
Medically reviewed byDr. Lena Okafor, MD
Medical Director - updated April 2026How we review
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