Originally developed as a medication to treat Type-2 Diabetes, Semaglutide has been adopted as an effective tool to combat obesity in recent years. It is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist, which mimics the GLP-1 hormone. GLP-1 is a hormone in the gut that is released in response to eating. In higher amounts, it interacts with the brain in a manner that suppresses appetite and causes a lasting feeling of fullness.

After 68 weeks, half of clinical trial participants lost 17% of their initial body weight, and another third lost 20% with improved diet and exercise. Many individuals regained weightafter stopping the medication, which highlights the importance of long-term strategy.

Other Benefits

• Reduces risk of major cardiovascular events (death, heart attack, or stroke) in adults with heart disease
• Potent anti-inflammatory effects
• Helps reduce amyloid protein buildup in the brain (linked to Alzheimer's)
• Shown potential in treating substance use disorders by reducing cravings
• Improves blood sugar regulation
• Lowers risk of COVID-19-related complications
• Fewer outbreaks of hidradenitis suppurativa

Side Effects

Of all GLP-1 medications, Semaglutide has one of the highest rates of side effects. These may include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Sulfur-smelling burps
• Gas and bloating
• Heartburn
• Runny nose
• Sore throat

Less Common but More Serious Side Effects

• Thyroid tumors and/or cancer
• Inflammation of the pancreas
• Gallbladder disease
• Gastroperesis (stomach paralysis)
• Kidney failure
• Changes in vision (esp. for diabetics)
• Depression or suicidal ideation
• Increased heart rate
• Hypoglycemia (especially if combined with insulin or sulfonylureas)

Contraindications

Do NOT take Semaglutide if:

• You are allergic or hypersensitive to any ingredients
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You have thyroid disease
• You or your family has a history of medullary thyroid cancer
• You have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2 (MEN 2)
• You have gallbladder disease or pancreatitis

Consult your physician before use if you have:

• Hypoglycemia
• Chronic eye disease
• Severe gastrointestinal disorders
• Pancreatic or kidney problems
• Type-2 diabetes with diabetic retinopathy
• Upcoming surgery or procedures using anesthesia

Dosing Protocol (Semaglutide: 5 mg vial)

Mix 5 mg with 1 mL (100 units) of bacteriostatic water

Subcutaneous administration

Dose once weekly, on the same day each week

If prone to side effects, take the dose before bedtime