Semaglutide – COC.org

Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy)

Overview

Semaglutide is a medication used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, for weight management in individuals with obesity. It belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists). Here are some key points about semaglutide:

Mechanism of Action: Semaglutide works by mimicking the action of the hormone GLP-1, which is involved in blood sugar regulation. It helps increase insulin secretion, thereby lowering blood sugar levels, and decreases glucagon secretion. It also slows gastric emptying, which contributes to its effect on appetite and weight loss.
Administration: It is typically administered via subcutaneous injection. There are different formulations available, including those for once-weekly injection. It’s important for patients to follow the specific dosing schedule prescribed by their healthcare provider.
Use in Diabetes Treatment: Semaglutide is primarily used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is often prescribed in combination with diet and exercise, and sometimes in conjunction with other diabetes medications.
Use in Weight Management: Semaglutide has also been shown to be effective in promoting weight loss in individuals with obesity or overweight, partly due to its appetite-suppressing effects. It is used under specific clinical conditions for weight management.
Side Effects: Common side effects of semaglutide can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation. These gastrointestinal symptoms are generally most prominent at the start of treatment and may diminish over time.
Brand Names: Semaglutide is marketed under various brand names, including Ozempic® for diabetes treatment and Wegovy™ for weight management.
Generic Availability: Semaglutide was under patent protection. Generic versions would typically become available after the expiration of the patent, allowing other companies to produce and sell cheaper versions.

How does Semaglutide work?

Semaglutide News

Do a live search of reviews and semiglutide in cancer PubMed now.

REVIEWS from PubMed – March 25, 2024 – Semaglutide (in title) AND Cancer (in title) AND Review

Letter to the Editor regarding "Semaglutide and cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis" by Nagendra L et al November 4, 2024
No abstract
Yu Xiao
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists for weight management: A review for the gynecologic oncologist August 8, 2024
The use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) has experienced rapid growth amidst the obesity epidemic in the United States. While originally developed for glucose control in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, the scope of these agents now extends to encompass weight loss and cardiovascular risk reduction. GLP-1RAs have the potential to induce significant weight loss, […]
Courtney J Riedinger
The effect of GLP-1R agonists on the medical triad of obesity, diabetes, and cancer May 27, 2024
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists have garnered significant attention for their therapeutic potential in addressing the interconnected health challenges of diabetes, obesity, and cancer. The role of GLP-1R in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is highlighted, emphasizing its pivotal contribution to glucose homeostasis, promoting β-cell proliferation, and facilitating insulin release. GLP-1R agonists have effectively managed […]
Shahad Sabaawi Ibrahim
Molecular mechanisms of semaglutide and liraglutide as a therapeutic option for obesity May 14, 2024
Obesity, a chronic global health problem, is associated with an increase in various comorbidities, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and certain types of cancer. The increasing global prevalence of obesity requires research into new therapeutic strategies. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, specifically semaglutide and liraglutide, designed for type 2 diabetes mellitus treatment, […]
Rafael Tamayo-Trujillo
Obesity pharmacotherapy in older adults: a narrative review of evidence May 6, 2024
The prevalence of obesity in older adults (people aged >60 years) is increasing in line with the demographic shift in global populations. Despite knowledge of obesity-related complications in younger adults (increased risk of type 2 diabetes, liver and cardiovascular disease and malignancy), these considerations may be outweighed, in older adults, by concerns regarding weight-loss induced […]
Alex E Henney
Assessment of Thyroid Carcinogenic Risk and Safety Profile of GLP1-RA Semaglutide (Ozempic) Therapy for Diabetes Mellitus and Obesity: A Systematic Literature Review April 27, 2024
The broadening application of glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 receptor agonists, specifically semaglutide (Ozempic) for the management of diabetes and obesity brings a critical need to evaluate its safety profile, considering estimates of up to 20 million prescriptions per year in the US until 2035. This systematic review aims to assess the incidence of thyroid cancer and […]
Catalin Vladut Ionut Feier
Cost consequence analysis of adding semaglutide to treatment regimen for patients with Type II diabetes in Saudi Arabia April 11, 2024
CONCLUSION: Although Semaglutide induced modest weight reductions, it did not offer significant advantages in lowering HbA1C levels compared to other hypoglycemic treatments. These findings suggest the need for further research involving larger and more diverse cohorts to corroborate these findings.
Yazed AlRuthia
The role of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis March 21, 2024
Despite its considerable and growing burden, there are currently no Food and Drug Administration-approved treatments for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease or its progressive form, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Several glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and other agents are in various phases of clinical development for use in MASH; an ideal therapy should reduce liver […]
Manal F Abdelmalek
Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists and Thyroid Cancer: A Narrative Review February 12, 2024
Background: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are highly effective medications for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Pharmacological studies in rodents support an association between the use of GLP-1 RAs and the development of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) resulting in a black box warning for these agents in patients at risk for […]
Ana E Espinosa De Ycaza
Glucagon-like peptide agonists: A prospective review December 14, 2023
CONCLUSION: In conclusion, this review underscores the significance of GLP-1RAs, with a specific focus on semaglutide, in the management of type 2 diabetes, obesity, and beyond. By synthesizing information on their mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety, this review provides valuable insights into the potential benefits these agents offer, contributing to the ongoing discourse in the […]
Zamara Mariam
What Is Best for Weight Loss? A Comparative Review of the Safety and Efficacy of Bariatric Surgery Versus Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Analogue October 31, 2023
Obesity is a global health concern, necessitating effective weight-loss interventions. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of semaglutide, a pharmacotherapeutic option, with bariatric surgery, a commonly utilized surgical intervention, for weight reduction. A systematic review of clinical trials, including the STEP (Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People) trials, sustain trials, pioneer trials, and […]
Nimra Klair
Do GLP-1 Analogs Have a Place in the Treatment of PCOS? New Insights and Promising Therapies September 28, 2023
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent endocrinopathy in women of reproductive age. This condition is characterized by hyperandrogenism and either oligo- or anovulation. PCOS patients often present comorbidities such as obesity, insulin resistance, impaired glucose metabolism, dyslipidemia, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and an increased risk of diabetes. Given the profound implications of metabolic impairment […]
Aleksandra Szczesnowicz
Shedding light on weight loss: A narrative review of medications for treating obesity September 27, 2023
Obesity and overweight are the major risk factors for numerous chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke, which are the leading causes of death worldwide. The prevalence of obesity has dramatically risen in both developed and developing countries, making it a significant public health concern and a global crisis. Despite lifestyle […]
Haritha Darapaneni
Embracing the Pros and Cons of the New Weight Loss Medications (Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, Etc.) September 2, 2023
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The history of multiple weight loss medications has been a concerning paradox based on an increased cardiovascular risk despite significant reductions in adipose tissue and weight. A new class of weight loss medications could change this past narrative based on early preliminary results of cardiovascular risk (not events-still need to be determined) […]
Mark A Moyad
Semaglutide and cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis August 2, 2023
CONCLUSION: Semaglutide use in RCTs and real-world studies was not associated with an increased risk of any types of cancer, and this conclusion is supported by a high grade of evidence.
Lakshmi Nagendra
Semaglutide - effectiveness in weight loss and side effects when used according to studies by SUSTAIN, PIONEER, STEP July 14, 2023
Overweight and obesity are a worldwide common problem and are diagnosed with a body mass index (BMI) value in the range of 25.0-29.9 kg/m2 and ≥30.0 kg/m2, respectively. Obese patients are at high risk of developing concomitant diseases, such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2), hyperlipidemia, stroke and even some types of cancer. In […]
O R Shabutdinova
Real-World Use of Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Thai Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a Private Hospital Setting May 30, 2023
CONCLUSIONS: In this single center undertaking, it was shown that in among persons with T2DM and obesity in Thailand, semaglutide was associated with short-term glycemic control and weight loss comparable with what has been observed in randomized clinical trials and other RWE.
Yotsapon Thewjitcharoen
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Future Cancer Risk April 13, 2023
The study aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the evidence for the prevention of future cancers following bariatric surgery. A systematic literature search of the Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and PubMed databases (2007-2023), Google Scholar and grey literature was conducted. A meta-analysis was performed using the inverse variance method […]
Robert B Wilson
Efficacy of Semaglutide in Treating Obesity: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) January 19, 2023
Obesity is a major health problem worldwide resulting in numerous health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and certain types of cancer which are among the leading causes of premature preventable deaths. Recently, glucagon like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA) has been identified as the most promising intervention in treating obesity. […]
Mahvish Anam
Semaglutide (Wegovy): CADTH Reimbursement Recommendation: Indication: As an adjunct to a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management in adult patients with an initial body mass index of 30 kg/m(2) or greater (obesity), or 27 kg/m(2) or greater (overweight) in the presence of at least 1 weight-related comorbidity such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, or obstructive sleep apnea October 1, 2022
WHAT IS THE CADTH REIMBURSEMENT RECOMMENDATION FOR WEGOVY?: CADTH recommends that Wegovy should not be reimbursed by public drug plans for chronic weight management in adult patients.

Do a search of semaglutide and cancer PubMed now.

Recent PAPERS (33 total) from PubMed – March 25, 2024 – Semaglutide (in title) and Cancer (in title)

Semaglutide decelerates the growth and progression of breast cancer by enhancing the acquired antitumor immunity November 13, 2024
Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist, is an antidiabetic that has recently shown promising immunomodulatory and antitumor effects. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer affecting women worldwide. The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of semaglutide on the antitumor immunity in a 4T1 mouse breast cancer model. After […]
Isidora Stanisavljevic
Analyses of Off-Target Effects on Cardiac and Skeletal Muscles by Berberine, a Drug Used to Treat Cancers and Induce Weight Loss November 11, 2024
Previous reports from our laboratory describing the formation of myofibrils in cultured embryonic cardiac and skeletal muscle cells have proposed that myofibrillogenesis occurs in three steps of increasing protein organization: beginning with premyofibrils, followed by nascent myofibrils, and ending in mature myofibrils. Inhibitors of the ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) prevented nascent myofibrils from progressing directly […]
Jushuo Wang
Letter to the Editor regarding "Semaglutide and cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis" by Nagendra L et al November 4, 2024
No abstract
Yu Xiao
Semaglutide treatment for PRevention Of Toxicity in high-dosE Chemotherapy with autologous haematopoietic stem-cell Transplantation (PROTECT): study protocol for a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, investigator-initiated study October 9, 2024
INTRODUCTION: Cancer treatment with high-dose chemotherapy damages the mucosal barrier of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and is associated with severe toxicity involving mucositis, severe inflammation and organ dysfunction. Currently, there is no effective prophylaxis against this. Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), a well-known regulator of blood glucose, has been suggested in mouse studies to possess trophic […]
Maria Ebbesen Sørum
Brown Adipose Tissue Mimicking Head and Neck Cancer on PET Scan in a Patient on GLP-1 Drug October 7, 2024
To report a case of a patient undergoing GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy in which increased FDG uptake in brown adipose tissue (BAT) mimicked metastatic head and neck cancer on PET/CT imaging. A 61-year-old female with Class III obesity presented with a right-sided neck mass after significant weight loss following the use of the GLP-1 receptor […]
Daron B Harrison
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) may reduce the risk of developing cancer-related lymphedema following axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) September 25, 2024
CONCLUSION: GLP1-RAs appear to significantly reduce the risk of lymphedema in patientsundergoing ALND. The mechanism of action may be multifactorial and not limited to weight reduction and insulin resistance. Future prospective analysis is warranted to clarify the role of GLP-1RAs in reducing lymphedema risk.
Stav Brown
Glycaemic and weight effects of metabolic surgery or semaglutide in diabetes dosage for patients with type 2 diabetes September 19, 2024
CONCLUSION: Semaglutide and MBS were both associated with improvements in weight and improved glycaemic control at 2 years after the start of the intervention, but MBS was associated with better weight loss and glucometabolic control.
Erik Stenberg
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists for weight management: A review for the gynecologic oncologist August 8, 2024
The use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) has experienced rapid growth amidst the obesity epidemic in the United States. While originally developed for glucose control in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, the scope of these agents now extends to encompass weight loss and cardiovascular risk reduction. GLP-1RAs have the potential to induce significant weight loss, […]
Courtney J Riedinger
Comprehensively prognostic and immunological analyses of GLP-1 signaling-related genes in pan-cancer and validation in colorectal cancer August 6, 2024
Background: Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) has crucial impact on glycemic control and weight loss physiologically. GLP-1 receptor agonists have been approved for treatment of diabetes and obesity. Emerging evidence suggests that GLP-1 receptor agonists exert anticancer effect in tumorigenesis and development. However, the role and mechanism of GLP-1 signaling-related genes in pan-cancer still need further study. […]
Chaojun Zhu
The first report of leukocytoclastic vasculitis induced by once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide July 29, 2024
CONCLUSION: Future prospective studies, adverse event reporting and post-marketing surveillance will certainly contribute to establishing if LCV represents a less rare than expected side effect of both oral and subcutaneous semaglutide formulations.
Marcelo Maia Pinheiro
Semaglutide ameliorated autism-like behaviors and DNA repair efficiency in male BTBR mice by recovering DNA repair gene expression July 20, 2024
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that is marked by impaired social interactions, and increased repetitive behaviors. There is evidence of genetic changes in ASD, and several of these altered genes are linked to the process of DNA repair. Therefore, individuals with ASD must have improved DNA repair efficiency to mitigate risks […]
Marwa H Hussein
A real-world disproportionality analysis of semaglutide: Post-marketing pharmacovigilance data June 29, 2024
CONCLUSIONS: This study identified many unexpected signals of serious adverse reactions, suggesting the importance of continuous post-marketing surveillance of semaglutide to understand its potential risks.
Yikuan Du
The effect of GLP-1R agonists on the medical triad of obesity, diabetes, and cancer May 27, 2024
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists have garnered significant attention for their therapeutic potential in addressing the interconnected health challenges of diabetes, obesity, and cancer. The role of GLP-1R in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is highlighted, emphasizing its pivotal contribution to glucose homeostasis, promoting β-cell proliferation, and facilitating insulin release. GLP-1R agonists have effectively managed […]
Shahad Sabaawi Ibrahim
Exploring the Impact of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors on Genitourinary Toxicities in Prostate Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiation Therapy: A Case Study and Discussion May 16, 2024
Radiation therapy is a common treatment modality offered to patients with localized prostate cancer. It can be associated with early radiation-induced toxicities including dysuria, nocturia, frequency, urgency, spasm, and, rarely, hematuria. Early toxicities usually resolve once the treatment period has ended. Chronic toxicities are less common, and rarely, patients may experience radiation-induced hemorrhagic cystitis and […]
Kelly Andrianu
Molecular mechanisms of semaglutide and liraglutide as a therapeutic option for obesity May 14, 2024
Obesity, a chronic global health problem, is associated with an increase in various comorbidities, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and certain types of cancer. The increasing global prevalence of obesity requires research into new therapeutic strategies. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, specifically semaglutide and liraglutide, designed for type 2 diabetes mellitus treatment, […]
Rafael Tamayo-Trujillo
Obesity pharmacotherapy in older adults: a narrative review of evidence May 6, 2024
The prevalence of obesity in older adults (people aged >60 years) is increasing in line with the demographic shift in global populations. Despite knowledge of obesity-related complications in younger adults (increased risk of type 2 diabetes, liver and cardiovascular disease and malignancy), these considerations may be outweighed, in older adults, by concerns regarding weight-loss induced […]
Alex E Henney
Assessment of Thyroid Carcinogenic Risk and Safety Profile of GLP1-RA Semaglutide (Ozempic) Therapy for Diabetes Mellitus and Obesity: A Systematic Literature Review April 27, 2024
The broadening application of glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 receptor agonists, specifically semaglutide (Ozempic) for the management of diabetes and obesity brings a critical need to evaluate its safety profile, considering estimates of up to 20 million prescriptions per year in the US until 2035. This systematic review aims to assess the incidence of thyroid cancer and […]
Catalin Vladut Ionut Feier
National trends in prescription drug expenditures and projections for 2024 April 24, 2024
CONCLUSION: For 2024, we expect overall prescription drug spending to rise by 10.0% to 12.0%, whereas in clinics and hospitals we anticipate an 11.0% to 13.0% increase and a 0% to 2.0% increase, respectively, compared to 2023. These national estimates of future pharmaceutical expenditure growth may not be representative of any health system because of […]
Eric M Tichy
Cost consequence analysis of adding semaglutide to treatment regimen for patients with Type II diabetes in Saudi Arabia April 11, 2024
CONCLUSION: Although Semaglutide induced modest weight reductions, it did not offer significant advantages in lowering HbA1C levels compared to other hypoglycemic treatments. These findings suggest the need for further research involving larger and more diverse cohorts to corroborate these findings.
Yazed AlRuthia
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass January 1, 2024
The obesity epidemic has reached alarming proportions globally, making it one of the most pressing public health concerns of our time. The World Health Organization defines obesity according to body mass index (BMI): 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m^(2 )is the normal range, 25 to 25.9 kg/m² is overweight (preobese), 30 to 34.9 kg/m² is obese class […]
Benjamin G. Mitchell

US Clinical Trials involving semaglutide

NCT Number	Study Title	Study URL	Study Status	Sponsor	Locations
NCT05756764	Anti-obesity Pharmacotherapy and Inflammation	https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05756764	RECRUITING	Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans	LSU Clinical & Translational Research Center (CTRC - - LSUHSC-NO, New Orleans, Louisiana, 70112, United States\|Ochsner Health System - Bioespecimen, New Orleans, Louisiana, 70121, United States
NCT05646199	Semaglutide vs Metformin in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)	https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05646199	NOT_YET_RECRUITING	University of Hull	Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Hull, HU32RW, United Kingdom
NCT05702905	Semaglutide Improves Metabolic Abnormalities and Fertility in Obese Infertile Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome	https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05702905	RECRUITING	Peking University First Hospital	PekingUFH, Peking, Beijing, 100034, China
NCT05819853	Role of Semaglutide in Restoring Ovulation in Youth and Adults With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome	https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05819853	RECRUITING	University of Colorado, Denver	University of Colorado Anschutz/Children's Hospital Colorado Aurora, Aurora, Colorado, 80045, United States