It activates the GLP-1 receptor, which signals the pancreas to release insulin, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite.nnThree engineered changes to the native GLP-1 backbone (an Aib substitution at position 8, a Lys-to-Arg substitution at position 34, and a C18 fatty diacid attached at lysine 26) give semaglutide its long plasma half-life and once-weekly dosing profile
Side effects can include nausea, diarrhea, and constipation
These reactions were observed in clinical trials: Abdominal distension Abdominal pain Acute gallbladder disease Acute kidney injury Acute pancreatitis Allergic reactions Constipation Diarrhea Dizziness Dyspepsia (indigestion) Eructation (burping) Fatigue Flatulence Gastroenteritis Gastroesophageal reflux disease Headache Hypoglycemia (in diabetic patients) Nasopharyngitis (cold) Nausea Thyroid C-cell tumors Vomiting Studies, consumer reports and lawsuits have highlighted other side effects of semaglutide medications
Ongoing Strategy Maintaining an effective dose, adjusting nutrition and activity as needed, and avoiding abrupt discontinuation help preserve results
Patients experiencing significant GI distress may wish to schedule cosmetic procedures during periods of better symptom control