Semaglutide
Brand names: Wegovy, Ozempic
Average weight loss
~15%
of body weight
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist that mimics a naturally occurring hormone in your body. It was originally developed for type 2 diabetes management and has since been FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management under the brand name Wegovy.
By activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain, semaglutide reduces appetite, increases feelings of fullness, and helps you eat less naturally — without constant willpower battles.
How does it work?
Reduces appetite
Acts on brain centers that control hunger and satiety signals.
Slows digestion
Delays gastric emptying so you feel full longer after eating.
Regulates blood sugar
Improves insulin sensitivity and reduces glucose spikes.
Dosing schedule
Semaglutide is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection. The dose is gradually increased over 16-20 weeks to minimize side effects:
Clinical results
In the landmark STEP clinical trials involving over 4,500 participants:
- -Participants lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight over 68 weeks
- -86% of participants achieved at least 5% weight loss
- -Significant improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors
- -Reduced waist circumference and improved blood pressure
Common side effects
Most side effects are gastrointestinal and tend to decrease over time as your body adjusts: