Semaglutide is used for weight loss, to lower blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes, and to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events and chronic kidney disease in certain adult patients.
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 agonist that works by reducing appetite, delaying gastric emptying, increasing insulin release, and lowering the amount of glucagon released.
Semaglutide is used for weight loss and weight maintenance in patients 12 years and older with obesity

Injection is given 1 time a week under the skin of the stomach (belly), the thigh, or the upper arm, using an autoinjector (pen)
This injection should be used in addition to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity

How does semaglutide work?

Semaglutide's mechanism of action involves mimicking a natural hormone in the body called GLP-1 which:

    Stimulates insulin production from the pancreas
    Reduces liver sugar production
    Slows down digestion
    Helps control appetite and food intake.

GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone that is released when we eat, to help us regulate our food intake. Semaglutide works by activating GLP-1 receptors, this lowers appetite, slows how quickly the stomach empties, and increases insulin production, so you feel fuller for longer and eat less, which leads to weight loss, control of blood sugar levels, and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.
The way semaglutide works for kidney-related risk reduction is not fully understood.
Semaglutide belongs to the drug class called GLP-1 receptor agonists.