Semaglutide
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes (Ozempic) and obesity management (Wegovy). It binds and activates GLP-1 receptors, enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon release, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing appetite via hypothalamic pathways. The fatty acid side chain confers high albumin binding, extending its plasma half-life to approximately one week.
Appetite suppression often within the first days; weight loss accrues over weeks to months alongside titration.
Refrigerate at 2 to 8 C and protect from light; do not freeze. Per the product label an in-use pen may be kept at controlled room temperature for a limited period. Compounded vials should be refrigerated and used within the pharmacy's stated beyond-use date.
Forms & Availability
Branded and compounded regulatory status
Branded (FDA-approved)
Available by prescription as Ozempic (type 2 diabetes injectable), Wegovy (obesity injectable), and Rybelsus (oral tablet for T2DM) from Novo Nordisk.
Compounded (currently restricted)
Compounded semaglutide was widely available 2022 through April/May 2025. FDA ended 503A discretion on Apr 22, 2025 and 503B discretion on May 22, 2025 following shortage resolution.
Clinical Evidence
What the literature says
Scientific Overview
Extensively studied in the STEP clinical trials, Semaglutide (sold as Wegovy® and Ozempic®) has demonstrated up to 15% weight loss in adults. Ongoing research (2024-2026) highlights its potent cardiovascular benefits even in non-diabetic populations.
Pharmacokinetics
- Half-life (t½)
- 7 d
- Approximate plasma half-life
- Routes
- SubcutaneousOral
t½ 7 d · ~3% remaining at 35 d
Citations (9)
- Real-world Impact of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists on Health-related Quality of Life in Type 2 Diabetes and ObesityPubMed 2026
- Comparative efficacy, safety, and cardiovascular outcomes with once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide in the treatment of type 2 diabetes: Insights from the SUSTAIN 1-7 trialsPubMed
- Therapeutic Potential of Semaglutide, a Newer GLP-1 Receptor Agonist, in Abating Obesity, Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis and Neurodegenerative diseases: A Narrative ReviewPubMed
- Semaglutide induces weight loss in subjects with type 2 diabetes regardless of baseline BMI or gastrointestinal adverse events in the SUSTAIN 1 to 5 trialsReview
- Semaglutide as a GLP-1 Agonist: A Breakthrough in Obesity TreatmentPubMed
- Semaglutide from Bench to Bedside: The Experimental Journey Towards a Transformative Therapy for Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolic Liver DisordersPubMed
- Compounded Semaglutide and Tirzepatide Products Use During the Drug ShortagePubMed
- Global Rise of Compounded Weight-Loss Medicines: A Worrisome TrendReview
- Frequently asked questions to the 2023 obesity medicine association position statement on compounded peptides: A call for actionReview
Last reviewed: 2026-05-09
Research Guide
How users approach this compound
The following reflects patterns observed in research literature and community protocols. This is not medical advice and does not constitute a clinical recommendation.
Typical Dose Range Observed
Research Protocols
Common DosagesStandard Titration
“Titrate every 4 weeks (0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 1.7, 2.4)”
Dosages listed are common research protocols found in peer-reviewed literature and clinical trials. Individual results and requirements may vary significantly in a research context.
Reported Uses
- FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes glycemic control (Ozempic) and chronic weight management (Wegovy)
- Studied for cardiovascular risk reduction in obese patients without diabetes (SELECT trial)
- Investigated for hepatic steatosis, kidney disease, and Alzheimer's disease in ongoing trials
Key Research Benefits
- Significant weight loss
- Improved blood sugar control
- Reduces heart attack/stroke risk
- Strong appetite suppression
Potential Side Effects
Considerations and Cautions
- Contraindicated with personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN2
- Contraindicated with known hypersensitivity to semaglutide
- Use in pregnancy not established
Labs to monitor
Educational context only, not a testing mandate. Any bloodwork decisions belong with your clinician.
- HbA1c: Primary glycemic efficacy marker for incretin therapy.
- Fasting glucose: Tracks glycemic response and hypoglycemia risk when combined with other agents.
- Lipid panel / ApoB: Incretin therapy commonly improves atherogenic lipids alongside weight loss.
Dose Calculator
Peptide Reconstitution Calculator
Total amount of peptide in the vial.
Volume of water used to mix.
Draw to this mark
or 0.10 mL on a U-100 syringe
Quick Explainer
Semaglutide by goal
Read Semaglutide's profile filtered through specific research goals.
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Not medical advice
Information on DoseVault is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider.