Semaglutide GLP-1

What is semaglutide?

Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, or GLP-1 RAs. It mimics the GLP-1 hormone, released in the gut in response to eating.

One role of GLP-1 is to prompt the body to produce more insulin, which reduces blood sugar (glucose). For that reason, health care providers have used semaglutide for more than 15 years to treat Type 2 diabetes.

But GLP-1 in higher amounts also interacts with the parts of the brain that suppress your appetite and signal you to feel full. When used in conjunction with diet and exercise, it can cause significant weight loss - and a reduced risk of cancer, diabetes and heart disease - in people who are obese or overweight.

What are the side effects of semaglutide injections?

The side effects of semaglutide are typically mild - especially when compared to the complications associated with overweight and obesity.

People taking semaglutide for weight loss may experience: dizziness, fatigue, gastrointestinal issues (diarrhea, constipation and gassiness), headache, stomach issues (nausea, vomiting, pain or bloating)

Gastrointestinal issues are the most common complaint among people just starting semaglutide. But you may be able to reduce the side effects by beginning on a lower dose and then slowly increasing the amount you take.