Library / Semaglutide
Approved medicine
Semaglutide
GLP-1 receptor agonist · Weight & GLP-1 · Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus
What it is
A long-acting version of GLP-1, a hormone the gut releases after eating. It slows stomach emptying, helps the body release insulin when blood sugar is high and reduces appetite.
What research covers
Large clinical trials led to approval for type 2 diabetes and, at different strengths, for long-term weight management. Usually a once-weekly injection; a daily tablet is also available.
Reported side effects
- Nausea, especially when the dose goes up
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Reduced appetite
Not suitable for, or talk to a doctor first
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN2
- History of pancreatitis
- Pregnancy or trying to conceive
Good to know
- Doses are normally increased in steps over several weeks. Your prescriber sets that plan.
- Carries a warning about thyroid tumours seen in rodent studies.
Legal status
| Australia | Prescription-only medicine in Australia (Ozempic, Wegovy). |
|---|---|
| United States | FDA-approved, prescription only. |
| Sport | Not prohibited by WADA at the time of writing. |
Rules change. Check with the TGA (Australia), your local regulator, or WADA for sport.
Key references
- Wilding et al. Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity (STEP 1). NEJM, 2021.
General information, not advice. Talk to a qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing or stopping anything.