Semaglutide
A profile on the GLP-1 agonist revolutionizing fat loss, known by trade names Ozempic and Wegovy.
Semaglutide
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. Originally approved for Type 2 Diabetes (Ozempic), it gained massive popularity as an anti-obesity drug (Wegovy).
In the fitness community, it is used as a powerful cutting agent that trivializes caloric deficits by crushing appetite.
Quick Specs
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Active Compound | Semaglutide |
| Half-Life | ~7 Days |
| Mechanism | GLP-1 Agonist |
| Administration | Subcutaneous (SubQ) |
Mechanism of Action
Semaglutide mimics the GLP-1 hormone, which is released in the gut in response to eating. It targets the brain to signal satiety (fullness) and slows down gastric emptying (food stays in the stomach longer).
It also enhances insulin secretion and lowers glucagon secretion, improving blood sugar control.
Pharmacokinetics & Dosing
Half-Life: ~7 Days
- Frequency: Once Weekly.
- Titration: You must ramp up slowly to avoid severe nausea.
- Weeks 1-4: 0.25mg
- Weeks 5-8: 0.5mg
- Weeks 9-12: 1.0mg
- Max: 2.4mg (Clinical dose for obesity). Many bodybuilders stop at 0.5-1.0mg as they don't need the full effect.
Primary Effects
1. Appetite Suppression
The desire to eat vanishes. Binge eating becomes physically difficult due to delayed gastric emptying.
2. Insulin Sensitivity
Improves how the body partitions nutrients, though the primary mechanism for weight loss is simply caloric restriction.
Side Effects & Harm Reduction
Muscle Loss:
The Ozempic Face: Rapid weight loss often leads to muscle wasting. Semaglutide does not preserve muscle; it just stops you from eating. You must prioritize High Protein intake and resistance training to avoid looking "skinny fat."
1. Nausea & Vomiting
The most common side effect. Usually caused by eating too much or dosing too high too fast.
2. Gastroparesis
In rare cases, the stomach paralysis can become severe.
Tracking Semaglutide
Using the Anabolic Tracker app:
- Inventory: Add Semaglutide.
- Scheduling: Once Weekly.
- Metrics: Track Weight and Protein Intake.
- Notes: Log nausea levels. If nausea is > 5/10, do not increase the dose next week.
Disclaimer:
This guide is for informational purposes only. Semaglutide is a prescription medication.