Semaglutide (brand names Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Rybelsus®) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist and one of the most thoroughly researched peptides in its class. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, it is now also approved for obesity treatment due to its pronounced weight-reducing effect.
Mechanism of Action
- Insulin secretion: Semaglutide stimulates glucose-dependent insulin release from pancreatic beta cells.
- Glucagon inhibition: Suppresses glucagon release, additionally stabilising blood sugar.
- Gastric emptying: Slows gastric emptying, promoting a longer-lasting feeling of satiety.
- CNS effect: Acts on hunger and satiety centres in the hypothalamus, sustainably reducing calorie intake.
Semaglutide has a long half-life of approximately 1 week, enabling weekly dosing intervals.
Clinical Studies on Semaglutide
The STEP-1 programme (Novo Nordisk, 2021, published in the New England Journal of Medicine) evaluated Semaglutide 2.4 mg over 68 weeks in adults with obesity. Result: an average body weight reduction of 14.9% versus 2.4% in the placebo group.
Semaglutide, Tirzepatide or Retatrutide?
| Peptide | Agonism | Avg. reduction (trial) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide | GLP-1 | ~15% (STEP-1) | Approved |
| Tirzepatide | GLP-1, GIP | ~22.5% (SURMOUNT-1) | Approved |
| Retatrutide | GLP-1, GIP, Glucagon | ~24% (TRIUMPH) | Phase 2 |
Semaglutide is the longest-available and therefore best-documented peptide in this class. Tirzepatide and Retatrutide achieve higher reductions in trials, but are newer and have less long-term data available.
Storage of Semaglutide
Semaglutide is supplied as a lyophilised powder. Storage: dry, protected from light at 2–8°C. After reconstitution with BAC Water, keep refrigerated and use within 4 weeks. More details in our Storage Guide.
Buy Semaglutide
Reta24 offers Semaglutide in 10 mg, 20 mg and 30 mg. All batches are HPLC-verified to ≥98.9% purity, with batch-specific COA. Fast shipping from Germany.