Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist used to improve glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus, treat obesity, and reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in selected adults. Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) analog used to manage type 2 diabetes along with lifestyle changes, such as dietary restrictions and increased physical activity.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed · 6 references
Mechanism of glycemic control
GLP-1 is a physiological hormone that promotes glycemic control via several different mechanisms, including insulin secretion, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing postprandial glucagon secretion. The homeostasis of glucose is dependent on hormones such as insulin and amylin, which are secreted by the beta cells of the pancreas. Semaglutide is 94% similar to human GLP-1. Analogs of this hormone such as semaglutide stimulate the synthesis of insulin by stimulating pancreatic islet cells and reducing glucagon secretion. They directly bind with selectivity to the GLP-1 receptor, causing various beneficial downstream effects that reduce blood glucose in a glucose-dependent fashion.
Mechanism of cardiovascular benefit and weight loss
In hypercholesterolemia, semaglutide is believed to reduce the progression of atherosclerosis via decreased gut permeability and decreased inflammation. Weight loss is believed to occur via the reduction of appetite and food cravings after semaglutide administration.
- Primary indication
- Semaglutide is always intended to be used with a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity.Curator reviewed · 18 structured indications
- First approval
- Canada, 2018 · United States, 2017 · European Union, 2020
- Code names
- NN-9535 · NNC 0113-0217 · QLG1091
- Brand names
Resolves to
What you can answer from here — as of September 23, 2026
Which drugs share a target with Semaglutide, and which of those have an active Phase 3 trial?
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