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CompoundIQ publishes research summaries for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider. Many compounds listed are research chemicals not approved for human use.
Semaglutide
Also known as: Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes (Ozempic) and chronic weight management (Wegovy). Clinical trials demonstrated average weight loss of 15-17% of body weight. It has become one of the most widely discussed medications in modern weight management.
Risk Level
Medium RiskDifficulty
Beginner| CAS Number | 910463-68-2 |
| Molecular Formula | C187H291N45O59 |
| Class | Peptide |
| Category | Fat Loss Agents |
Mechanism of Action
Semaglutide is a modified GLP-1 analogue with 94% homology to native GLP-1, engineered for extended half-life via albumin binding. It activates GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas (increasing insulin secretion), gut (slowing gastric emptying), and brain (reducing appetite via hypothalamic and brainstem signaling). The net effect is significant caloric reduction and improved metabolic parameters.
Dosing Research
Wegovy (weight loss): Start 0.25 mg SC weekly, titrate monthly through 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, to maintenance of 2.4 mg weekly. Ozempic (diabetes): Start 0.25 mg, titrate to 0.5-2 mg weekly. Inject subcutaneously once weekly. Can be taken any time of day, with or without food.
Side Effects & Risks
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain are most common, especially during dose escalation. Decreased appetite is a therapeutic effect but can be excessive. Rare: pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, retinopathy worsening (diabetics), thyroid C-cell tumors (preclinical). Significant lean mass loss without resistance training.
Research Studies
Related compounds
Tirzepatide
PeptideTirzepatide is a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro) and obesity (Zepbound). It has demonstrated unprecedented weight loss efficacy in clinical trials, with participants losing up to 20-25% of body weight. It represents the cutting edge of pharmaceutical weight management.
Liraglutide
PeptideLiraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes (Victoza, 1.8 mg) and obesity (Saxenda, 3.0 mg). It was the first GLP-1 agonist approved specifically for weight management. While effective, it has been largely superseded by semaglutide and tirzepatide in terms of weight loss efficacy.
T4 (Levothyroxine)
HormoneT4 (levothyroxine) is the primary thyroid prohormone produced by the thyroid gland. It is converted to the active T3 by deiodinase enzymes in peripheral tissues. It is the most commonly prescribed thyroid medication and provides a more stable, physiological approach to thyroid supplementation compared to T3.
T3 (Liothyronine)
HormoneT3 (triiodothyronine) is the active thyroid hormone that regulates basal metabolic rate. Liothyronine (Cytomel) is the synthetic form used medically for hypothyroidism. In performance settings, it is used to elevate metabolic rate and accelerate fat loss, often during cutting phases.
Disclaimer
CompoundIQ publishes research summaries for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider. Many compounds listed are research chemicals not approved for human use.