Semaglutide

Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It mimics the action of natural GLP-1, stimulating insulin secretion and reducing glucagon levels, thereby helping to regulate blood sugar levels. Semaglutide is a drug that belongs to a group of drugs called peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It is an effective treatment for obesity and is also used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is available commercially in both oral and subcutaneous formulations.

Indications

-Semaglutide is indicated for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults, as an adjunct to diet and exercise, to improve glycemic control. -Obesity and type -2 diabetes mellitus.

Dosage

-The recommended dose of semaglutide may vary and should be individualized based on the patient's response and tolerability. It is typically administered once weekly via subcutaneous injection. -The average dose for Semaglutide oral preparation is 7 to 14 mg once a day and the dose for subcutaneous preparation is 0.5 to 1 mg once a week.

Contra-Indications

-Semaglutide is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to the drug or its components. It should not be used in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). -Semaglutide is contraindicated in patients with kidney impairment, diabetic retinopathy, endocrine neoplasia type 2, thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, and diabetic ketoacidosis.

Special Precautions

-Renal Impairment: Caution should be exercised in patients with renal impairment. -Pancreatitis: Semaglutide should be discontinued if pancreatitis is suspected. -Thyroid C-Cell Tumors: Monitoring for signs of thyroid C-cell tumors is recommended. -Semaglutide is not widely used in type-1 diabetes mellitus. It is not recommended to use semaglutide in pregnancy and breast-feeding.

Side Effects

-Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Serious side effects may include pancreatitis, allergic reactions, kidney problems, and hypoglycemia. -Vomiting, abdominal discomfort, constipation, visual impairment, dizziness, headache, allergic reactions like rash, itching, inflammation of throat, tongue, ankle, and feet.

Drug Interactions

-Semaglutide may interact with certain medications, including insulin and other antidiabetic agents. Close monitoring and dosage adjustments may be necessary when using concomitant medications. -Semaglutide’s therapeutic effect may be diminished if it is taken in combination with, aspirin, warfarin, levothyroxine, beta-blockers like metoprolol, propranolol, and other anti-diabetic medications