DESCRIPTION: is a synthetic glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analog made up of 31 amino acids. It is currently the only glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) drug that has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in both subcutaneous and oral formulations.
Initially approved as an antidiabetic medication due to its marked hypoglycemic action, semaglutide subsequently gained clinical interest as an appetite regulator and weight loss agent. Extensive trials have demonstrated its promise as a weight loss intervention, leading to its latest approval for weight management in non-diabetic patients with obesity or comorbidly overweight individuals. Ongoing research points to further pleiotropic effects, such as lower cardiovascular risk in susceptible populations.
The dramatic weight loss benefits of semaglutide have been well-documented through extensive clinical trial programs in both diabetic and non-diabetic patients. GLP-1 acts upon receptors within the GI tract and central nervous system to regulate blood glucose, gastric motility, and appetite. GLP-1-RA’s like semaglutide activate the GLP-1 receptors to stimulate pancreatic insulin release while suppressing glucagon output. These medications function in a glucose-dependent fashion, reducing blood sugar for better glycemic control.
Hypothalamic stimulation improves appetite control and feeding habits for lowered caloric intake. Through these mechanisms, semaglutide and other GLP-1RAs have been proven to affect substantial and sustained weight reduction in obese and overweight patients with various etiologies.
Semaglutide and other drugs of its class also display broad anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective properties. While semaglutide performs the same activities as natural GLP-1, it has a unique albumin-binding structure that allows for enhanced stability and a longer half-life. As a result, it is suitable for once-weekly administration via subcutaneous injection. Semaglutide induces weight reduction through multiple distinct pathways. Appetite suppression is identified as the leading cause. This is attributed to its stimulation of the hypothalamic GLP-1 receptor, which alters eating patterns and reduces cravings. It also slows gastric motility, which
improves satiety and nutritional absorption. Lastly, its insulinogenic effects increase glycemic control to further promote homeostatic feeding and appetite management. As a consequence, food intake decreases, resulting in weight loss with improved body composition
DOSAGE: • Initial dose: 250mcg delivered once weekly via subcutaneous injection for four weeks.
• Dose increase: Increase the weekly dose to 500mcg/weekly for weeks 5-8, 1mg/weekly for weeks 9-12, 1.7mg/weekly for weeks 13-16, and 2.4mg/weekly for weeks 17 and onward.
• Missed doses: If a dose is missed, it can be administered within 5 days.
• Notes: Injections may be given in the abdomen, upper arm, and thigh. Alternate sites of injection to prevent irritation. If the weekly dose of 1.7mg is not well tolerated, discontinue usage.
NOTE: All users should consult with a healthcare professional before any use of Ozempic.
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