Semaglutide

FDA Approved

Semaglutide

Aliases
Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus
Administration
Subcutaneous injection (weekly), Oral tablet (daily)

Overview

GLP-1 receptor agonist with 15–17% weight reduction in STEP trials and 20% reduction in major cardiovascular events in SELECT. Available in injectable and oral formulations.

Treatments studied

Treatment categories

Addiction support (emerging)

Early research suggests GLP-1 receptor activation may dampen reward-pathway responses tied to substance cravings.

Alzheimer's disease

Under investigation for potential neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in the brain.

Cardiovascular disease

Demonstrated a reduction in major cardiovascular events in the SELECT trial, independent of diabetes status.

Obesity / weight management

Suppresses appetite by acting directly on hunger-regulating centers in the brain.

Type 2 diabetes

Stimulates insulin release only when blood sugar is elevated, reducing hypoglycemia risk.