What is Semaglutide? Semaglutide is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes.
It belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which work by mimicking the effects of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). GLP-1 is naturally produced in the body and helps regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin secretion and reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver. Semaglutide is taken once a week as an injection and has been shown to improve blood sugar control, reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, and promote weight loss. It was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017.
Semaglutide is available in various brands name, including:
- Ozempic – for subcutaneous injection
- Rybelsus – for oral use
- Wegovy – for subcutaneous injection
All three brand names contain the same active ingredient, semaglutide, but they differ in their method of administration. Ozempic and Wegovy are both given as a once-weekly injection under the skin, while Rybelsus is a tablet taken orally once a day.

semaglutide weight loss
OZEMPIC – How to use
Ozempic is a prescription medication that is given as a subcutaneous injection once a week. Here are the general steps to follow when using Ozempic:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Choose a clean, dry injection site on your stomach, thigh, or upper arm.
- Open the Ozempic pen and remove the protective cap from the needle.
- Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it dry.
- Pinch a fold of skin at the injection site and insert the needle at a 90-degree angle.
- Press the button on the pen to administer the dose.
- Hold the needle in place for at least 5 seconds after the dose is complete, then remove the needle.
- Replace the pen cap and dispose of the needle in a sharps container.
It is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider for your specific dose and injection technique. Your healthcare provider may adjust your dose over time based on your blood sugar levels and other factors.
RYBELSUS – How to use
Rybelsus is a brand name for semaglutide, a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. Unlike other forms of semaglutide, Rybelsus is taken orally as a tablet. Here are the general steps to follow when using Rybelsus:
- Take Rybelsus once a day, with or without food.
- Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Swallow it whole.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is already time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
- Follow the dosing schedule provided by your healthcare provider, which may be adjusted over time based on your blood sugar levels and other factors.
- Check your blood sugar regularly and report any significant changes to your healthcare provider.
- Be aware of the signs of low blood sugar, which can include shaking, sweating, headache, dizziness, and confusion. Carry a source of fast-acting sugar with you at all times, such as glucose tablets or hard candy.
It is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider for your specific dose and schedule. If you have any questions or concerns about using Rybelsus, consult with your healthcare provider.

What is Semaglutide?
WEGOVY – How to use
Wegovy is a brand name for semaglutide, a medication used to treat obesity. It is administered as a subcutaneous injection once a week. Here are the general steps to follow when using Wegovy:
- Your healthcare provider will show you how to use the Wegovy pen and provide instructions for your specific dose and injection technique. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully.
- Choose a clean, dry injection site on your stomach, thigh, or upper arm.
- Open the Wegovy pen and remove the protective cap from the needle.
- Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it dry.
- Pinch a fold of skin at the injection site and insert the needle at a 90-degree angle.
- Press the button on the pen to administer the dose.
- Hold the needle in place for at least 5 seconds after the dose is complete, then remove the needle.
- Replace the pen cap and dispose of the needle in a sharps container.
- Store Wegovy in the refrigerator and do not freeze. Once opened, it can be kept at room temperature for up to 4 weeks.
It is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider for your specific dose and injection technique. Your healthcare provider may adjust your dose over time based on your weight loss and other factors. If you have any questions or concerns about using Wegovy, consult with your healthcare provider.
SEMAGLUTIDE WEIGHT LOSS
Semaglutide has been shown to be effective in promoting weight loss in adults who are overweight or have obesity. In clinical trials, participants who took semaglutide as a once-weekly injection or as an oral tablet experienced greater weight loss than those who received a placebo.
The exact mechanism by which semaglutide promotes weight loss is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve several factors. Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which means it stimulates the release of insulin and reduces the production of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels. This can lead to reduced appetite and feelings of fullness, which may contribute to weight loss.
In addition to its effects on appetite and insulin production, semaglutide may also have direct effects on fat cells. Animal studies have suggested that semaglutide can increase the rate of fat burning and reduce the size of fat cells.
Overall, semaglutide is a promising option for individuals struggling with weight management. However, it is important to note that it should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise, as well as under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
The health information contained herein is provided for general educational purposes only. Your healthcare professional is the single best source of information regarding your health. Please consult your healthcare professional if you have any questions about your health or treatment. |