Essential Ingredients Found in Semaglutide

What is Compounded Semaglutide

Compounded semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that shares 94% similarity with human GLP-1 ^[4]. This medication functions by binding to and activating GLP-1 receptors, triggering multiple beneficial effects in the body.

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The medication's primary functions include:

• Increasing glucose-dependent insulin release from pancreatic beta cells
• Reducing glucagon secretion from pancreatic alpha cells
• Slowing gastric emptying
• Suppressing appetite through brain receptor activation

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In the pancreas, compounded semaglutide may help normalize blood glucose levels by stimulating insulin production when blood sugar is elevated. The medication's action in the brain affects appetite control, leading to decreased caloric intake and potential weight reduction.

Compounded semaglutide serves multiple medical purposes. It may help manage type 2 diabetes and reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events in patients with established heart or blood vessel disease. The medication is available in both injectable and oral forms, with specific brands approved for different conditions ^[5].

The body naturally produces GLP-1 through cells in the gastrointestinal mucosa following meals to regulate blood glucose. Compounded semaglutide mimics this natural process but provides a more sustained effect. Through its interaction with brain receptors, it creates a feeling of fullness, supporting weight management efforts when combined with proper diet and exercise.

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What are the Ingredients in Semaglutide

The molecular composition of semaglutide consists of a 31-amino acid polypeptide chain that functions as the active ingredient ^[6]. This medication comes in different FDA-approved formulations, each containing specific ingredients:

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Injectable Formulations:

• Wegovy® : Contains semaglutide as the active ingredient, along with disodium phosphate dihydrate, sodium chloride, and water for injection ^[7] Approved for weight management.
• Ozempic®: Includes semaglutide plus disodium phosphate dihydrate, propylene glycol, phenol, and water for injections. Approved for T-2 diabetes management. 

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The oral formulation, Rybelsus®, contains semaglutide combined with inactive ingredients including magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, and salcaprozate sodium (SNAC).

The molecular structure of semaglutide features specific modifications that enhance its effectiveness. These include substitutions at key positions where alanine is replaced by 2-aminoisobutyric acid, and lysine is replaced by arginine ^[8]. A distinctive feature of semaglutide is its strong binding affinity to plasma albumin, with more than 99% of the medication binding to albumin. This binding characteristic contributes to the medication's stability and prolonged effectiveness in the body.

The pH of injectable solutions is carefully controlled, with manufacturers using hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide to maintain optimal levels. Each pre-filled pen contains precise amounts of semaglutide, with concentrations varying based on the prescribed dosage ^[9].

Compounded semaglutide contains the same active ingredient, but is not FDA approved for safety, efficacy or quality. 

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Semaglutide Benefits

Recent clinical research has revealed multiple therapeutic benefits of semaglutide beyond its primary functions. In cardiovascular health, semaglutide demonstrated a 20% reduction in major cardiac events, including heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular deaths in adults with obesity ^[10]. The medication showed particular promise in heart attack prevention, with a 28% reduction in occurrence among patients already taking heart medications.

The anti-inflammatory properties of semaglutide contribute to its effectiveness. Studies have shown that it suppresses inflammatory cytokines, with a notable reduction in TNF-α and IL-6 levels after six months of treatment ^[11]. These anti-inflammatory effects extend to protecting various body systems, including the cardiovascular system, liver tissue, and kidneys.

For kidney health, semaglutide has shown protective effects. Clinical trials revealed a 24% lower risk of major kidney disease events in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease ^[12]. Additionally, the medication demonstrated a 22% reduction in kidney-related events among individuals with obesity or overweight conditions ^[13].

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Emerging research suggests potential benefits:

• 25% reduction in colorectal cancer risk compared to traditional diabetes treatments 
• Promising results in treating alcohol use disorder through appetite regulation 
• Potential applications for cognitive disorders and Alzheimer's disease prevention 
• Improvements in heart failure-related symptoms and exercise tolerance ^[14]

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These benefits are particularly significant as they address multiple aspects of metabolic health while maintaining a strong safety profile under proper medical supervision.

Please note that this article is not meant to be medical advice; please consult your licensed healthcare provider to evaluate whether or not you are an eligible candidate for compounded semaglutide. 

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Semaglutide Side Effects

Clinical studies have documented various side effects associated with semaglutide use, ranging from mild to severe. Semaglutide may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation. Serious but rare side effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, kidney problems, and an increased risk of thyroid tumors.

In clinical trials, 48.6% of people taking semaglutide reported experiencing adverse effects. 

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Side effects include:

• Vomiting and nausea (36.6% of patients)
• Diarrhea (8.6% of patients) 
• Fatigue (6.3% of patients) 
• Constipation (5.7% of patients)

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Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience severe symptoms. These include ongoing pain in the upper stomach that may spread to the back, vision changes, or decreased urination. Some patients have reported gallbladder-related disorders, primarily gallstones, affecting 2.6% of users, while acute pancreatitis occurred in 0.2% of cases.

Most gastrointestinal symptoms were mild to moderate and resolved without stopping treatment. Approximately 2.9% of patients had to discontinue medication due to intolerance, while 8.6% required dose adjustments.

A recent European study analyzing adverse events found 481 psychiatric events associated with semaglutide and similar medications between January 2021 and May 2023. These included depression (50%), anxiety (39%), and suicidal ideation (19.6%). 

Due to semaglutide's week-long half-life, patients experiencing overdose symptoms may require extended observation and treatment ^[15]. Healthcare providers should carefully monitor patients, particularly those with pre-existing conditions or taking other medications that might interact with semaglutide.

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Eden's Semaglutide

Try Eden is an online platform which may connect you to independent, licensed healthcare providers to evaluate whether or not you are an eligible candidate for compounded semaglutide. If prescribed, Eden may provide access to various formulations of compounded semaglutide through its network of independent, licensed US-based compounding pharmacies. 

Compounded semaglutide may offer a cost-effective and customizable alternative to brand-name options, often formulated with additional ingredients like vitamin B12 to enhance benefits. Clinical studies have shown that patients using compounded semaglutide experienced an average weight reduction of 14.9% within one year.

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Eden's compounded semaglutide offerings may include:

• Injectable compounded semaglutide
• Oral semaglutide tablets
• Compounded semaglutide with MIC+B12
• Compounded semaglutide with sermorelin
• Combination treatments with both supplements

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For those preferring a non-injection method, oral semaglutide provides a convenient option, taken once daily on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. For injectable forms, knowing how to inject compounded semaglutide is essential—administering it subcutaneously in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, rotating injection sites weekly to avoid irritation. 

Studies demonstrate that compounded semaglutide can lead to significant weight reduction when combined with lifestyle modifications such as proper diet and exercise. Participants showed a mean weight loss of 5.9% at three months and 10.9% at six months ^[16].

To ensure safety and effectiveness, familiarize yourself with understanding semaglutide dosage FAQs and guidelines, which include starting with a lower dose to minimize side effects and gradually increasing it as directed by your healthcare provider. Semaglutide may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation. Serious but rare side effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, kidney problems, and an increased risk of thyroid tumors.

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Eden maintains consistent pricing regardless of dosage adjustments. While insurance is not accepted, the program includes support through: 

• Regular medical consultations
• Ongoing prescription management
• Access to healthcare providers
• Medication shipping services

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It's important to note that compounded semaglutide is not FDA reviewed for safety, efficacy or quality, though it contains the same active ingredient as FDA-approved medications. Healthcare providers work closely with patients to monitor progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.

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Try Eden's Semaglutide Today

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Final Thoughts

Semaglutide represents an advancement in medical treatment options for weight management and type 2 diabetes. Research demonstrates its effectiveness through multiple mechanisms, including blood sugar regulation, appetite control, and potential cardiovascular benefits. The medication's molecular structure and specific ingredient composition contribute to its sustained effectiveness and reliable absorption rates. Semaglutide may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation. Serious but rare side effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, kidney problems, and an increased risk of thyroid tumors.

Patients using semaglutide showed improvements across multiple health markers, though healthcare providers must carefully monitor treatment progress and potential side effects. The documented success rate of 14.9% average weight reduction over 68 weeks demonstrates the medication's potential when used as prescribed.

Healthcare providers will consider each patient's medical history, current medications, and specific health goals when prescribing semaglutide. Regular monitoring, proper dosage adjustment, and patient education about potential side effects remain essential components of successful treatment outcomes. 

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FAQ

What is semaglutide made of?

Semaglutide consists of a 31-amino acid polypeptide chain produced through recombinant DNA technology using Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells. The medication contains both active and inactive ingredients. The active component is a human glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analog, while inactive ingredients vary by formulation. Injectable forms contain components like disodium phosphate dihydrate and water, while oral formulations include additional elements such as microcrystalline cellulose and salcaprozate sodium.

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What hormone is in semaglutide?

Semaglutide contains a synthetic version of the GLP-1 hormone, demonstrating 94% sequence similarity to the natural human GLP-1. This hormone plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels and appetite control. The synthetic version maintains a longer presence in the bloodstream compared to natural GLP-1, which typically remains active for only minutes ^[21].

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What is the natural version of semaglutide?

There is no direct natural version of semaglutide, as it is specifically engineered in laboratory conditions ^[22]. While some supplements like berberine have been marketed as "natural alternatives," research indicates they function differently ^[23]. Clinical studies demonstrate that berberine produces minimal weight loss effects. ^[24].

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Disclaimer: The FDA does not approve compounded medications for safety, quality, or manufacturing. Prescriptions and a medical evaluation are required for certain products. The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not be relied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blog is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns, including side effects. Use of this blog's information is at your own risk. The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided in this blog.

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References

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8. UCLA Health. What you need to know about semaglutide and weight loss. UCLA Health News. https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/semaglutide-weight-loss-what-you-need-know
   
   
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10. Yale Medicine. Why your cardiologist may prescribe semaglutide. Yale Medicine News. https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/why-your-cardiologist-may-prescribe-semaglutide-wegovy
    
    
11. Patel R, Brown A. The role of semaglutide in metabolic regulation. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2023;19(4):10992717. PMC10992717
    
    
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13. Health.com. Semaglutide: treatments and conditions overview. Health.com. https://www.health.com/semaglutide-round-up-conditions-treatment-8657610
    
    
14. Mayo Clinic. Health benefits of semaglutide beyond weight loss. Mayo Clinic Press. https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/living-well/health-benefits-of-semaglutide-beyond-weight-loss/
    
    
15. FDA. Alert: compounded semaglutide and dosing errors. FDA Human Drug Compounding. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/human-drug-compounding/fda-alerts-health-care-providers-compounders-and-patients-dosing-errors-associated-compounded
    
    
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18. TryEden. Understanding compounded semaglutide. TryEden Blog. https://www.tryeden.com/treatment/compounded-semaglutide
    
    
19. TryEden. Compounded semaglutide: FAQs and uses. TryEden Blog. https://www.tryeden.com/post/compounded-semaglutide-how-and-why
    
    
20. NovoMedLink. Patient safety: semaglutide guidance. NovoMedLink. https://www.novomedlink.com/semaglutide/patient-safety.html
    
    
21. NPR. Ozempic, Wegovy, and fiber: understanding weight loss drugs. NPR Health Shots. https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2023/10/30/1208883691/diet-ozempic-wegovy-weight-loss-fiber-glp-1-diabetes-barley
    
    
22. Signos. Semaglutide natural alternatives: insights and benefits. Signos Blog. https://www.signos.com/blog/semaglutide-natural-alternatives
    
    
23. Health.com. Berberine: nature’s semaglutide and its safety profile. Health.com. https://www.health.com/berberine-natures-ozempic-safety-7506050
    
    
24. Cardiometabolic Health. Is berberine nature’s semaglutide? Cardiometabolic Health. https://www.cardiometabolichealth.org/article/is-berberine-natures-semaglutide/
    
    

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