Semaglutide: Weight, cardiovascular, and metabolic health
Medically reviewed by: Op. Dr. Ferhat İlen, ENT – Head & Neck Surgeon · Last updated:
Semaglutide is a once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist. In the STEP-1 trial, an average weight reduction of 14.9% was reported at 68 weeks, while the SELECT trial demonstrated a 20% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events in non-diabetic patients with established cardiovascular disease.
Regulatory / evidence status: FDA-approved: type 2 diabetes (Ozempic), chronic weight management (Wegovy), and cardiovascular risk reduction (2024).
Effects beyond weight reduction
The SELECT trial was the first major obesity drug trial to demonstrate a reduction in the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiovascular death. It has also received approval for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH).
Parameters requiring monitoring
Body composition, dietary protein intake, glycemic control, lipid profiles, renal function, and gallbladder-related symptoms require regular medical monitoring.
Side effects
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and transient loss of appetite are common. Pancreatitis and cholelithiasis can occur rarely.
Frequently asked questions
Are Ozempic and Wegovy the same?
They share the same active pharmaceutical ingredient; however, their approved indications and dosing regimens differ.
Is there an oral tablet form?
Yes, oral semaglutide (Rybelsus) is approved for type 2 diabetes, and an oral formulation has also received approval for obesity.
References
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