Semaglutide is a synthetic analog of human GLP-1. Subcutaneous formulations (Wegovy, Ozempic) have a half-life of about one week, supporting once-weekly dosing. Oral semaglutide (Rybelsus) requires daily empty-stomach administration. FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (Ozempic 2017, Rybelsus 2019) and chronic weight management (Wegovy 2021). The SELECT trial established a 20% CV risk reduction in non-diabetic adults with established CV disease.

Drugs in this category

Related terms

GLP-1: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist — class of drugs that mimic a gut hormone to reduce appetite and slow stomach emptying.
Tirzepatide: Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist; active ingredient in Mounjaro and Zepbound.
STEP 1: Pivotal 68-week trial that earned Wegovy its FDA weight-loss approval. Average 14.9% body weight loss vs 2.4% placebo.
SELECT trial: Landmark 2023 cardiovascular outcomes study showing semaglutide (Wegovy) cut major cardiovascular events by 20% in adults with prior heart disease.

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