What is semaglutide

Semaglutide is a medication that primarily targets the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) pathway. It is used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. Semaglutide works centrally, mostly in the hypothalamus of the brain, to suppress appetite and reduce body weight, but also has peripheral effects such as increasing insulin sensitivity. It is effective at promoting weight loss, although some patients may lose muscle along with fat and experience side effects like nausea due to its action on gut mechanoreceptors. It typically requires gradual dosing up to about 1-2 milligrams weekly, and long-term use may be necessary to maintain weight loss 1 2.

Semaglutide is an example of a GLP-1 agonist, which leads to the release of more GLP-1, inhibiting feeding and reducing appetite by stimulating mechanosensors in the gut and affecting neurons in the hypothalamus 3 4. There is a next generation of GLP-1 agonists being developed that may preserve weight loss even after the medication is stopped, which would impact how the medication is used in the long term 5.

Prescription drugs like Semaglutide should only be used under medical supervision due to their potent effects and the potential for side effects 6.