Weight Loss

SimplyCare

Primary Care Physicians located in Mount Juliet, TN

615-288-4087

Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that is primarily used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. Semaglutide works by mimicking the effects of GLP-1, which results in several therapeutic benefits for people with type 2 diabetes.

Here are some key points about Semaglutide:

Mechanism of action: Semaglutide works by stimulating the release of insulin, reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver, and slowing down the emptying of the stomach. These actions help to lower blood sugar levels and improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Administration: Semaglutide is available in two forms: a subcutaneous injection (Ozempic) and an oral tablet (Rybelsus). The injectable form is typically administered once a week, while the oral form is taken once daily.

Efficacy: Clinical trials have shown that semaglutide is effective in lowering blood sugar levels and improving glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes. It may also help with weight loss, as it can reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness.

Side effects: Some common side effects of semaglutide include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These side effects are generally mild to moderate and tend to decrease over time. Less common but more serious side effects may include pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, and severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

Contraindications and precautions: Semaglutide should not be used in patients with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or those with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), as it may increase the risk of thyroid cancer. Additionally, caution should be exercised when using semaglutide in patients with a history of pancreatitis, kidney problems, or liver disease.

Combination therapy: Semaglutide can be used in combination with other diabetes medications, such as metformin, sulfonylureas, or insulin, to improve blood sugar control. However, the risk of hypoglycemia may increase when semaglutide is used in combination with other medications, so careful monitoring is required.