Educational content only. Not medical advice, and no doctor-patient relationship is created. Read the medical disclaimer
Peptide · GLP-1 receptor agonist
Semaglutide
Also known as: Wegovy · Ozempic · Rybelsus
A long-acting GLP-1 medicine that reduces appetite, improves blood sugar and lowers cardiovascular risk.
Tier 1 · Prescribe today
Grade A · Approved for this use
Educational content only, not medical advice. Discussion here does not mean this therapy is prescribed by Youthful Medicine or available to you. Read the medical disclaimer
U.S. regulatory status
FDA-approved (brand products) for type 2 diabetes, chronic weight management and cardiovascular risk reduction. Prescription required.
What it is
A modified version of the gut hormone GLP-1, engineered to last about a week instead of a few minutes.
How it is thought to work
It activates GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas, gut and brain: more insulin when blood sugar is high, slower stomach emptying and less hunger.
Animations simplify biology for teaching. They are not a claim that this peptide works this way in people.
What the research shows
Large randomized trials show meaningful weight loss. In the SELECT trial it reduced heart attacks and strokes in people with obesity and heart disease.
Safety and considerations
Nausea, constipation and reflux are common early on. Rare risks include pancreatitis and gallbladder problems. Not for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN2. Muscle loss during weight loss needs active attention.
Our position
A cornerstone of this quadrant, paired with protein, resistance training and body-composition tracking so the weight you lose is mostly fat.
Video lesson
AT A GLANCE
Quadrant
Metabolic & Obesity Health
Tier
Tier 1 · Prescribe today
Evidence grade
Grade A · Approved for this use
Last reviewed
Is this right for you?
Only a physician who has evaluated you can answer that. Consultations are with licensed Youthful Medicine providers.
Never use products labeled “research use only” or “not for human use.” Purity, dose and sterility are unverified.