Patient Guide

What Is Semaglutide? A Beginner’s Guide

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist used in medications including Ozempic and Wegovy. It may be prescribed for type 2 diabetes, chronic weight management in eligible patients, and risk reduction in specific cardiovascular contexts.

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Date published: 2026-05-06

Last updated: 2026-05-06

Last reviewed: Pending clinician reviewer

Reviewer: Clinician reviewer needed before medical-review claims

Review status: Editorially checked; medical review pending

Sources cited / checked:

FDA prescribing information and medication labels for semaglutide products
Manufacturer safety information for Ozempic and Wegovy
PubMed / clinical literature on GLP-1 receptor agonists
Clinician review required before medical-review claims

What to ask your clinician

Why am I being prescribed this medication?
What side effects should I expect during dose changes?
When should I call you or seek urgent care?
How should I manage missed doses, refills, meals, and other medications?