Class
Long-acting GLP-1 Receptor Agonist
Molecular Weight
4,113.6 Da
Half-life
~7 days
Purity
≥98% (HPLC)
Form
Lyophilized powder
Storage
2–8°C (refrigerated)
Reconstitution
Bacteriostatic water
Mechanism of action
Semaglutide is a synthetic analogue of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) with 94% sequence homology to native GLP-1. It binds and activates GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas, hypothalamus, and peripheral tissues, driving glucose-dependent insulin secretion, glucagon suppression, slowed gastric emptying, and central appetite reduction via hypothalamic signaling. The C18 fatty diacid side chain enables albumin binding, extending plasma half-life to approximately 7 days — enabling once-weekly dosing protocols in research settings.
⚠️ For Research Use Only — described exclusively for in vitro and laboratory research by qualified researchers. Not for human or veterinary use. Informational only; does not constitute medical advice or imply efficacy in humans.
Research highlights
14.9%
Mean body weight reduction (STEP-1, 68 wks)
−1.89%
HbA1c reduction in SUSTAIN-6 trial
26%
MACE reduction vs placebo (SUSTAIN-6)
~7 days
Plasma half-life (albumin binding)
Research notes
- STEP trials (2021): Pivotal Phase 3 trials demonstrated 14.9% mean weight loss at 2.4 mg weekly over 68 weeks in non-diabetic obesity subjects.
- SUSTAIN program: Multiple trials showing significant HbA1c reductions across Type 2 DM populations.
- Cardiovascular: 26% relative risk reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) compared to placebo.
- NASH research: Emerging preclinical and early clinical data suggest hepatic fat reduction.
- Neuroprotection: GLP-1 receptor signaling being studied in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease models.
