What Is Semaglutide and How Does It Work?

Semaglutide is a vital medication in managing diabetes. It also has weight loss and weight management benefits.

Are you curious about how semaglutide works? Are you wondering if it’s a good choice for you? This blog outlines some of the key details you need to know.

What is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide promotes weight loss and can also be used to maintain weight reduction. Its mechanism involves reducing appetite. Usually, this medication complements changes to exercise and diet.

Semaglutide is a member of the GLP-1 receptor agonist drug class. These drugs function by imitating the body’s production of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).

The intestines naturally produce GLP-1. By promoting the release of insulin, delaying the emptying of the stomach, and lowering the synthesis of glucagon — a hormone that elevates blood sugar levels — GLP-1 aids in blood sugar regulation.

How Semaglutide Works

When you take semaglutide, it acts like GLP-1 in your body. Here’s how it works:

Blood Sugar Regulation Role

Semaglutide imitates the action of GLP-1 hormone, which is naturally released in the gut after meals. GLP-1 stimulates insulin production, aiding in blood sugar reduction by transferring glucose from the blood to other body tissues for energy. 

Healthcare providers have utilized semaglutide for over 15 years to manage type 2 diabetes due to its blood sugar-regulating properties.

Appetite Suppression and Weight Loss

Higher levels of GLP-1 interact with brain regions that curb appetite and signal satiety. When combined with diet and exercise, semaglutide can foster significant weight loss in overweight or obese individuals. It also mitigates the risk of cancer, diabetes, and heart disease in these demographics.

Semaglutide for Weight Loss

Recently, semaglutide, marketed as Wegovy, has received approval for weight loss. The typical weekly semaglutide dosage for weight management is 2.4 milligrams, administered subcutaneously. 

Due to heightened demand, healthcare professionals occasionally prescribe alternative semaglutide brands like Ozempic and Rybelsus off-label.

Schedule a Semaglutide Consultation in Virginia

If you’re interested in learning more about how semaglutide can help you manage your diabetes or assist with weight loss, speak with a doctor at Prima Medicine in Virginia. 

To schedule your consultation, reach out to us today. You can contact our Fairfax office at 703-382-5776, our South Riding office at 703-775-4801, or our Merrifield office at 703-957-7271.