Lecture Notes: Semaglitide and Its Uses

Overview

• Semaglitide is a drug formulated to help in controlling blood sugar for type 2 diabetes.
• Marketed under two brand names:
  • Ozempic: For diabetes management.
  • Wegovi: Approved for weight loss.

Administration

• Both Ozempic and Wegovi are administered through a weekly self-injection using an auto-injector.

Mechanism of Action

• Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists:
  • Stimulate production of incretin.
  • Incretin is a hormone that:
    • Helps individuals feel fuller for longer by slowing stomach emptying.
    • Impacts the hypothalamus to reduce hunger and cravings.

Clinical Trial Findings

• Conducted by drug maker Novo Nordisk:
  • Duration: 68-week study.
  • Results for Wegovi:
    • Average weight loss: 14.9% of body weight.
    • Placebo group weight loss: 2.4%.

Side Effects and Challenges

• Gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and vomiting may occur due to stomach effects.
• Discontinuation of semaglitide can lead to regained weight.

Market and Competition

• Wegovi: Currently the only weekly GLP-1 treatment approved for weight loss.
• Emerging Competition:
  • Eli Lilly: Expected to receive approval for a similar drug.
  • Companies like Amgen and Pfizer are developing rivals promising:
    • Less frequent dosing.
    • More significant weight loss.
    • Fewer side effects.

Note: This information is based on the current understanding and studies as of the lecture date.