Semaglutide

A long-acting analogue of the hormone GLP-1, developed by Novo Nordisk and approved as a prescription medicine since 2017.

Level of evidence

Approved as a medicine in at least one country

What it is

Semaglutide is a 31-amino-acid analogue of human glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) with a fatty-acid side chain that binds albumin and extends its half-life. It acts on the GLP-1 receptor.

State of the research

It has been studied in large randomised clinical trials (SUSTAIN, PIONEER, STEP and SELECT programmes) and is approved by the FDA and the EMA. Its effects and side effects in humans are documented in the official product information of the approved medicines.

Sources

PubMed — semaglutide
U.S. FDA — Drugs@FDA (approved medicines)

Last reviewed: October 2026

Summaries of published scientific literature, for information and laboratory research only. They do not describe uses of our products, are not medical advice and do not imply that any compound is safe or effective in humans. Our products are not for human or animal consumption.