Semaglutide: Overview, Dosage, Side Effects & Research
The peptide that started the weight loss revolution — FDA-approved, clinically proven, and widely accessible.
Also known as: Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide mimics the natural GLP-1 hormone, which is released from the gut after eating. It activates GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas (stimulating insulin), brain (suppressing appetite), and stomach (slowing gastric emptying). The result is reduced caloric intake, improved blood sugar control, and significant weight loss.
Dosage Overview
| Level | Dose |
|---|---|
| Starting / Low | 0.25 mg |
| Typical / Maintenance | 1.7-2.4 mg |
| Maximum (studied) | 2.4 mg |
For Wegovy: Start at 0.25mg weekly, titrate by 0.25mg every 4 weeks up to 2.4mg maintenance dose. For Ozempic: Max dose is 2mg. Oral Rybelsus dose is 3mg daily titrating to 14mg.
Full dosage guide with titration schedule →Side Effects
| Side Effect | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Nausea | common |
| Diarrhea | common |
| Vomiting | common |
| Constipation | common |
| Abdominal pain | common |
| Headache | common |
Clinical Research
Semaglutide 2.4mg produced 14.9% mean weight loss vs 2.4% for placebo over 68 weeks.
Semaglutide reduced major cardiovascular events (MACE) by 20% vs placebo in patients with established cardiovascular disease — a landmark finding leading to expanded use.
Best Used For
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Ozempic and Wegovy?
Both contain semaglutide but at different doses. Ozempic (max 2mg) is approved for type 2 diabetes. Wegovy (max 2.4mg) is approved for chronic weight management in obesity. Wegovy's higher dose produces greater weight loss.
Is compounded semaglutide available?
During the FDA-designated semaglutide shortage period (which affected much of 2022–2024), 503B compounding pharmacies were permitted to produce compounded semaglutide. Check current FDA shortage status, as availability changes.
How long does it take Semaglutide to work?
Most people notice appetite suppression within the first 1–2 weeks. Meaningful weight loss typically appears by weeks 4–8. Full effect at maintenance dose is seen by 12–20 weeks.
What happens when you stop Semaglutide?
Clinical studies show most patients regain a significant portion of lost weight (up to two-thirds) within one year of stopping semaglutide. This underscores that it treats obesity as a chronic condition requiring ongoing medication.
Where to Source Semaglutide
Sourcing guidance, supplier vetting criteria, and price benchmarks.
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