Semaglutide is a medication primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and for long-term weight management. It belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists, mimicking the GLP-1 hormone that regulates appetite and blood sugar levels. Semaglutide decreases blood sugar, increases insulin release, delays gastric emptying, and reduces appetite. It can be administered via subcutaneous injection or taken orally.
Novo Nordisk manufactures semaglutide and sells it under the brand names Ozempic and Rybelsus for diabetes, and Wegovy for weight management. Semaglutide is available as an injectable solution and as oral tablets. The FDA first approved Semaglutide on December 5, 2017, for the brand Ozempic. As of February 2026, there are no generic versions of semaglutide available. However, some companies are developing generic versions, with potential release dates in the coming years, after patents expire. The cost of semaglutide varies, ranging from $200 to $2,000 per month, depending on the brand, dosage, and insurance coverage. Without insurance, the monthly cost can range from $991 to $1,349. Semaglutide is available via prescription.
