Semaglutide is a medication primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity. It is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which mimics a natural hormone to regulate blood sugar levels and appetite. Here’s a summary of its key aspects:

Benefits of Semaglutide

1. Type 2 Diabetes Management:

   • Blood Sugar Control: Semaglutide helps lower blood sugar levels by enhancing insulin secretion in response to meals and reducing glucagon release.
   • Cardiovascular Protection: It reduces the risk of major cardiovascular events (e.g., heart attack, stroke) in patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.

2. Weight Management:

   • Significant Weight Loss: Clinical trials (e.g., STEP trials) have shown that semaglutide can lead to substantial weight loss when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
   • Appetite Regulation: It reduces hunger, increases feelings of fullness, and decreases food cravings, making it easier to adhere to dietary changes.

3. Long-Term Benefits:

   • Sustained Effects: With proper adherence, semaglutide provides long-term improvements in glycemic control and weight management.
   • Improved Quality of Life: By addressing obesity and diabetes, it can reduce complications like hypertension, dyslipidemia, and other metabolic disorders.

For Weight Management:

• Injectable:
  • Start with 0.25 mg once weekly for 4 weeks.
  • Gradually increase the dose every 4 weeks:
    • 0.5 mg weekly (weeks 5–8),
    • 1 mg weekly (weeks 9–12),
    • 1.7 mg weekly (weeks 13–16),
    • 2.4 mg weekly (maintenance dose starting week 17).
  • Administer subcutaneously in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.

Storage:

• • Once opened, the pen can be stored for 56 days (8 weeks)  in the refrigerator (2°C–8°C/36°F–46°F). After 56 days, discard the pen, even if it still contains medicine.