Semaglutide

Semaglutide is a medication that mimics a natural hormone called Glucagon-like peptide-1. It was originally developed to treat Type 2 Diabetes, but research later showed strong effects on appetite and body weight.

It is marketed under brand names such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus.

Here are the main areas where Semaglutide is researched:

1. Type 2 Diabetes

Semaglutide was first studied for controlling blood sugar in Type 2 Diabetes.

Research shows it can:

increase insulin release when glucose is high

reduce glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar)

slow stomach emptying

lower average blood sugar levels (HbA1c)

Large clinical trials demonstrated significant improvements in glycaemic control compared with many older diabetes drugs.

2. Obesity and Weight Loss

One of the most widely studied uses is chronic weight management.

Semaglutide acts on appetite centre's in the brain, particularly in the Hypothalamus, leading to:

reduced hunger

increased feelings of fullness

lower calorie intake

In major trials like the STEP Trials, participants lost around 10–15% of body weight on average, which is substantial compared with many previous obesity medications.

3. Cardiovascular Disease

Researchers discovered that Semaglutide may reduce the risk of major heart problems in people with metabolic disease.

Studies investigate effects on:

heart attack risk

stroke risk

blood pressure

cholesterol levels

A major trial called SELECT Trial found reduced cardiovascular events in people with obesity and existing heart disease.

Related condition studied:

Cardiovascular disease

4. Fatty Liver Disease

Semaglutide is being studied for Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis, a severe form of fatty liver disease.

Researchers are investigating whether it can:

reduce liver fat

decrease liver inflammation

prevent progression to cirrhosis

This research is ongoing, and it is not yet universally approved for this use.

5. Kidney Disease

Because diabetes often damages kidneys, studies are exploring whether Semaglutide can slow progression of:

Chronic Kidney Disease

Potential mechanisms include improved blood sugar control and reduced inflammation.

6. Brain and Addiction Research

Emerging research suggests GLP-1 drugs may affect reward pathways in the brain. Scientists are exploring potential effects on:

alcohol use

nicotine cravings

binge eating

These studies are early but involve brain areas linked to reward such as the Nucleus Accumbens.