Is Semaglutide A Peptide? A Look Inside Semaglutide

Semaglutide has caught the attention of doctors as a promising way to treat diabetes and help people lose weight. The special qualities of this drug have made many people wonder: Does semaglutide count as a peptide? To understand how semaglutide works in our bodies and why scientists and doctors are so interested in it, we need to know what kind of compound it is.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the peptide structure of semaglutide and how it works. We'll examine semaglutide's effects and advantages for people with diabetes and those looking to lose weight and see how it stacks up against other GLP-1 receptor agonists.

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Key Takeaways

• Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist used to treat type 2 diabetes and manage weight ^[1].

• It's available in subcutaneous injection, sublingual, and oral tablet forms, making it the first FDA-approved oral GLP-1 receptor agonist ^[1].

• Semaglutide has shown safety in adults and elderly patients with renal or hepatic disorders, requiring no semaglutide dosage adjustments ^[1].

• Clinical trials have demonstrated semaglutide's ability to reduce cardiovascular risk factors in patients with established cardiovascular disorders ^[1].

• While well-tolerated as monotherapy without hypoglycemia risk, semaglutide may cause gastrointestinal side effects ^[1].

• Semaglutide has proven beneficial for managing blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes patients ^[2].

• The oral formulation of semaglutide offers good glucose control in a safe and well-tolerated manner, addressing the limitations of injectable GLP-1 receptor agonists ^[2].

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What Is A Peptide?

Peptides are small chains of amino acids that serve as the basic units of proteins. A peptide consists of 2 to 50 amino acids linked by covalent bonds [3]. These molecules have an essential part to play in many biological processes.

A polypeptide is a peptide that has more than 20 amino acids [3]. People call the individual amino acids in a peptide "residues." This name shows the part that remains after water is lost during the creation process [3].

To make a peptide, you need to follow these three main steps:

1. Remove the protection from an amino acid

2. Prepare to add the following amino acid

3. Do a coupling reaction to create the final working peptide [3]

Peptide bonds can withstand conditions that break down proteins, like high heat and concentrated urea solutions [3].

Scientists group molecules with two or more amino acids as peptides [4]. As the number of amino acids grows, these structures become polypeptides or proteins [4]. This shift from peptides to proteins shows how biological molecules become more complex.

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Is Semaglutide A Peptide?

Semaglutide is a peptide agonist of the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor [5]. This polypeptide contains 187 amino acid residues. It mimics the GLP-1 hormone that the gastrointestinal tract releases after eating [6] [5]. The chemical structure of this medication is 94% similar to human GLP-1 [5].

Scientists have engineered semaglutide's structure with precision. Semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic^® and Wegovy^®) lacks the first six amino acids of GLP-1, and researchers have made substitutions at specific spots to boost its potency [7]. These changes enable semaglutide to mimic the body's natural GLP-1 while lasting longer [8]. 

Semaglutide, a peptide, goes through the same regulatory process as most other drugs instead of being grouped as a biologic [8]. You need a prescription to get it. Doctors prescribe it to control type 2 diabetes, help with obesity, and lower the chances of serious heart problems in some adults [5].

Keep in mind that patients should get semaglutide only with a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider and from state-licensed pharmacies or FDA-registered outsourcing facilities [6]. This ensures the medication remains safe and effective.

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Peptide Structure And Function Of Semaglutide

Molecular Structure Of Semaglutide And How It Relates To Its Stability And Function

Semaglutide is a manufactured peptide that looks a lot like human GLP-1, with a 94% match [1]. It has 31 amino acids, with some key changes to make it work better and last longer [1]. The eighth amino acid alanine, gets swapped out for 2-aminoisobutyric acid. This swap keeps DPP-4 enzymes from breaking it down [1]. Also, the 26th amino acid lysine, gets a C18 fatty diacid attached through a water-loving linker. This change makes semaglutide stick to albumin more and clear out through the kidneys less, so it hangs around in the body for about 165 hours [1] [9].

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How Semaglutide's Peptide Structure Helps It Work With GLP-1 Receptors To Control Blood Sugar Levels

The peptide structure of semaglutide enables it to bind to GLP-1 receptors in a selective manner, copying the natural GLP-1 hormone's action [10]. This binding has an influence on several mechanisms to control blood glucose levels. It impacts insulin secretion from pancreatic islet cells based on glucose levels, stops glucagon release, and reduces hepatic gluconeogenesis [1] [10]. 

Semaglutide also decreases the speed of gastric emptying and boosts satiety, helping to reduce food intake and causing weight loss [11]. These effects together make semaglutide an effective option to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity [10] [11].

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How Semaglutide Works In The Body

Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, works by binding to and activating GLP-1 receptors [12]. This drug has a 94% structural similarity to human GLP-1, which allows it to copy the hormone's actions [13]. A doctor will decide if semaglutide is right for you and which type: either the injectable form of semaglutide (Wegovy^®, Ozempic^®) or one of the oral forms of semaglutide (Rybelsus^®, SubMagna™).

Semaglutide's primary ways of working include:

1. Boosting insulin production: Semaglutide prompts insulin release from pancreatic β-cells when glucose is present, which helps to lower blood sugar levels [12].

2. Cutting down glucagon production: This drug lowers glucagon release, which supports blood sugar control [12].

3. Slowing down stomach emptying: This slows the speed at which glucose enters the blood after eating [12].

4. Making you feel full: By working with GLP-1 receptors in the hypothalamus, semaglutide might lessen feelings of hunger and the urge to eat [14][15].

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These combined effects have an impact on semaglutide's ability to manage blood sugar levels and help with weight loss. The drug's long-lasting action, with an elimination half-life of about 7 days, means patients need to take it once a week [12]. 

You need a prescription from a doctor to get compounded semaglutide for both the injectable form and oral forms. It's essential to understand semaglutide dosages and guidelines. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully and report any side effects or concerns you may experience while using semaglutide.

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Benefits Of Semaglutide For Diabetes And Weight Loss

Benefit #1: Improved Blood Sugar Control

Semaglutide has an impressive effect on type 2 diabetes management. It boosts insulin production and cuts down glucagon release, which helps keep blood sugar levels steady [15]. Studies show that semaglutide can reduce the diabetes control marker hemoglobin A1C by as much as 2 percentage points [14].

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Benefit #2: Weight Loss

Semaglutide has an impact on weight control. A study looked at 2,000 adults with obesity. Half of the people who took semaglutide dropped 15% of their weight. One-third shed 20% after 68 weeks [16]. People who changed their habits lost less weight without medication.

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Benefit #3: Cardiovascular Protection

Research shows that semaglutide lowers the chances of serious heart problems, like heart attacks and strokes, in overweight or obese adults. An extensive study found that semaglutide can cut the risk of major heart issues or death by 26% in people with diabetes [14].

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Benefit #4: Kidney Protection

Semaglutide has a protective effect on the kidneys. It shields them from harm caused by high blood sugar. This might slow down the development of chronic kidney disease in type 2 diabetes patients [14].

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Benefit #5: Better Heart Failure Symptoms

People with specific types of obesity-linked heart failure find semaglutide helpful in improving symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling. It also helps them overcome physical limitations and boosts their exercise capacity [14].

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Comparison With Other GLP-1 Agonists

Compare Semaglutide With Liraglutide And Dulaglutide

Clinical trials have shown that semaglutide outperforms other GLP-1 receptor agonists. The SUSTAIN-7 study found that semaglutide had a greater impact on glycemic control and weight loss than dulaglutide [17]. In the same way, the SUSTAIN-10 trial proved that semaglutide works better than liraglutide [1]. 

Another study revealed that patients who switched from liraglutide to semaglutide 0.5 mg saw more considerable improvements in glycemic control and body weight compared to those who switched to dulaglutide 0.75 mg [18].

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Let's Talk About Why People Choose Semaglutide

Despite people wondering if semaglutide is safe, this weight loss drug shines because it controls blood sugar, helps with weight, and protects the heart. Studies also show that it lowers the chance of serious heart problems more than other drugs [17]. When weighing the pros and cons of semaglutide for weight loss, a common concern that arises is that of semaglutide cost. Getting semaglutide from sources like Eden ensures accessibility and affordable options as determined by a healthcare professional.

Doctors often suggest semaglutide for heart issues and when patients can't handle SGLT-2 blockers [1]. The oral forms make it easier for patients to take, so many prefer it over other GLP-1 drugs [1] when deciding between semaglutide tablets vs injections.

​​Semaglutide tackles many parts of metabolism and hunger control, offering a full approach to managing weight and boosting metabolic health. Patients are left satisfied with the results of using this weight loss option, leading to many semaglutide success stories.

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Final Thoughts

Semaglutide has revolutionized the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Its particular peptide structure copies the body's own GLP-1 hormone, which helps control blood sugar better and leads to significant weight loss. The drug also reduces heart attack risks and protects the kidneys, making it a well-rounded treatment choice.

Looking ahead, semaglutide shows promise to help patients better take charge of their health. It outperforms other GLP-1 receptor agonists and comes in both shot and pill forms giving doctors more options to choose from. Semaglutide has an influence on diabetes control and weight loss, paving the way for boosting patient results and well-being.

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FAQ

1. What exactly is semaglutide?

Semaglutide, known commercially as Ozempic^® or Wegovy^®, is a peptide composed of amino acids. It functions by signaling the body to regulate blood sugar, enhance insulin production and sensitivity, increase feelings of fullness, and promote fat loss.

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2. What are the components of semaglutide?

As of November 2, 2023, semaglutide is an injectable medication primarily used for treating Type 2 diabetes. Its active ingredient is a peptide designed to mimic a naturally occurring gut hormone. Additionally, Ozempic^® includes a small amount of phenol as a preservative.

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3. How does compounded semaglutide differ from standard semaglutide?

Compounded semaglutide is prepared in a compounding pharmacy and differs from standard semaglutide, which is an FDA-approved medication. The main distinction lies in the preparation and regulatory status.

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4. In what forms is semaglutide available? 

Semaglutide is available in several forms: Ozempic^® and Wegovy^® are injectable forms with varying doses and strengths. At the same time, Rybelsus^® is a tablet form of semaglutide, also available in different strengths, and lastly, a sublingual oral suspension, SubMagna™, is available, too. These medications help lower blood sugar levels.

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References

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1. Mahapatra MK, Karuppasamy M, Sahoo BM. Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist with cardiovascular benefits for management of type 2 diabetes. Reviews in Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders. 2022;23(3). doi: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11154-021-09699-1

2. Kalra S, Sahay R. A Review on Semaglutide: An Oral Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonist in Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Diabetes Therapy. 2020;11(9)(1965–1982). doi: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13300-020-00894-y

3. Forbes J, Krishnamurthy K. Biochemistry, Peptide. PubMed. Published August 28, 2023. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562260/

4. National Cancer Institute. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/peptide. National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health. Published February 2, 2011. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/peptide

5. Drugbank Online. Semaglutide. Drugbank. Published December 6, 2017. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB13928

6. FDA. Medications Containing Semaglutide Marketed for Type 2 Diabetes or Weight Loss. FDA. Published online May 31, 2023. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/medications-containing-semaglutide-marketed-type-2-diabetes-or-weight-loss

7. Scott R. Semaglutide. Wikipedia. Published March 12, 2022. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semaglutide

8. Billingsley A. Is Ozempic a Biologic? Understanding Biologics and Peptides. GoodRx. Published October 23, 2023. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.goodrx.com/ozempic/is-ozempic-a-biologic

9. PDB-101. PDB101: Diabetes Mellitus: Diabetes Mellitus: undefined: Semaglutide. RCSB: PDB-101. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://pdb101.rcsb.org/global-health/diabetes-mellitus/drugs/incretins/drug/semaglutide/semaglutide

10. PubChem. Semaglutide. Pubchem–National Library of Medicine. Published March 21, 2012. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Semaglutide

11. Cleveland Clinic. GLP-1 Agonists. Cleveland Clinic. Published July 3, 2023. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/13901-glp-1-agonists

12. novoMEDLINK. Ozempic® (semaglutide) injection 0.5 mg or 1 mg Mechanism of Action. novoMEDLINK. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.novomedlink.com/diabetes/products/treatments/ozempic/about/mechanism-of-action.html

13. Kommu S, Whitfield P. Semaglutide. PubMed. Published February 11, 2024. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK603723/

14. Mayo Clinic. Health benefits of semaglutide — Beyond weight loss - Mayo Clinic Press. Mayo Clinic Press. Published July 2, 2024. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/living-well/health-benefits-of-semaglutide-beyond-weight-loss/

15. Weiman E, Suero-Salvador, MD T. Semaglutide for Weight Loss: Benefits, Side Effects, and More. Sesame Care. Published December 19, 2023. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://sesamecare.com/blog/semaglutide-for-weight-loss

16. UCLA Health. Semaglutide, also known as Ozempic, for weight loss - what you need to know. UCLA Health.org. Published January 12, 2023. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/semaglutide-weight-loss-what-you-need-know

17. Latif W, Lambrinos KJ, Rodriguez R. Compare And Contrast the Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP1RAs). PubMed. Published February 25, 2024. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK572151/

18. Iijima T, Shibuya Makoto, Ito Y, Yasuo Terauchi. Effects of switching from liraglutide to semaglutide or dulaglutide in patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Diabetes Investigation. 2023;14(6):774-781. doi: https://doi.org/10.1111/jdi.14000

Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is forgeneral informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute forprofessional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not berelied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blogis not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers areadvised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medicalconcerns. Use of this blog's information is at your own risk. The blog owner isnot responsible for any adverse effects, or consequences resulting from the useof any suggestions or information provided in this blog.

‌Disclaimer: The FDA does not approve compounded medicationsfor safety, quality, or manufacturing. Prescriptions and a medical evaluationare required for certain products. The information provided on this blog is forgeneral informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute forprofessional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not berelied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blogis not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers areadvised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medicalconcerns, including side effects. Use of this blog's information is at your ownrisk. The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequencesresulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided in this blog.

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