Semaglutide

What is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a medication in a class called GLP-1 receptor agonists. It mimics a natural gut hormone (GLP-1) that the body releases after eating, which helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. At RxSpan MD, semaglutide is offered as a compounded medication in both an injectable and an oral (capsule) form.

How does it work?

Semaglutide acts like the body's own GLP-1 hormone. It helps the pancreas release insulin when blood sugar is elevated, slows how quickly the stomach empties, and acts on areas of the brain that regulate appetite — which can increase feelings of fullness and reduce hunger.

How is it taken?

Injectable form: a small injection under the skin (subcutaneous), typically once weekly.

Oral (capsule) form: taken by mouth, typically once daily as directed.

Your provider will determine the right form, dose, and schedule for you, and dosing is usually started low and increased gradually.

Possible side effects

The most common side effects are digestive and tend to occur early or when the dose is increased: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. Less common but more serious risks reported with this class include inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), gallbladder problems, kidney problems (often related to dehydration from vomiting/diarrhea), low blood sugar (especially if combined with insulin or certain diabetes medicines), and allergic reactions. This is not a complete list — review full prescribing information with your provider.