Semaglutide
Also known as: Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus
Molecular Identifiers
Overview
Long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist, with a molecular weight of approximately 4,113.58 Da. Human GLP-1 analog with 94% homology, modified with a C-18 fatty acid for albumin binding and an extended half-life of approximately 7 days.
Approved by the FDA as Ozempic (2017) and Rybelsus (2019) for type 2 diabetes, and as Wegovy (2021) for chronic weight management in adults with BMI ≥30 or ≥27 with comorbidities.
Modified peptide — 31-amino acid GLP-1 base with Aib substitution and conjugated C18 fatty acid
Half-life
~7 days
Administration Route
Subcutaneous or oral
Category
Metabolic & Fat Loss
Mechanism of Action
- GLP-1 receptor agonism (increased glucose-dependent insulin secretion)
- Suppression of glucagon secretion in hyperglycemia
- Delayed gastric emptying
- Appetite reduction via central hypothalamic signaling
- Improved insulin sensitivity and beta cell function
Dosage Protocol
Data compiled from the literature. This does not constitute medical advice.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose | 0.25-2.4 mg per week (subcutaneous) |
| Frequency | Once per week |
| Timing | Same day and time each week, regardless of meals |
| Duration | Continuous use (with gradual escalation in the first weeks) |
Reported Side Effects
Adverse effects described in the literature. Severity and frequency vary between individuals.
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
Presentations & Preparation
Vials of Semaglutide found in the research market:
Reconstitution
- Diluent: Bacteriostatic water
- Volume: 1 ml per vial
- Inject the diluent slowly against the vial wall
- Gently swirl until completely dissolved — never shake
- Escalation every 4 weeks (0.25 → 0.5 → 1.0 → 1.7 → 2.4 mg)
Storage
- Lyophilized: Refrigerated 2-8°C
- Reconstituted: Refrigerated 2-8°C (up to 30 days)
- Protect from direct light
- Do not freeze after reconstitution
- Pre-filled pens must be refrigerated and used within 56 days after first use
Scientific Studies
Published studies on Semaglutide.
Semaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Marso SP, Bain SC, Consoli A, Eliaschewitz FG, Jodar E, Leiter LA, et al.
Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity
Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Calanna S, Davies M, Van Gaal LF, Lingvay I, et al.
Semaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Obesity without Diabetes
Lincoff AM, Brown-Frandsen K, Colhoun HM, Deanfield J, Emerson SS, Esber S, et al.
Related Peptides
5-Amino-1MQ
50 mg per capsule · 1-2 times daily
Adipotide
0.5-1 mg/kg per injection (subcutaneous) · Once daily
AICAR
50-150 mg per injection · 2-3 times per week
AOD 9604
300-600 mcg per injection · Once daily
Cagrilintide
1.2-4.5 mg per week (subcutaneous) · Once weekly
Dulaglutide
0.75-4.5 mg per week (subcutaneous) · Once weekly