Abstract
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist with 94% homology with human GLP-1. Long half-life and binding to albumin enables administration of semaglutide in a once-weekly subcutaneous injection.
Phase 3 studies have demonstrated excellent efficacy of semaglutide in improving glucose control in patients with type 2 diabetes along with marked body weight reductions. The efficacy of semaglutide in improving glucose control and reducing body weight in particular in a dose of 1 mg once weekly was superior to other GLP-1 receptor agonists and other antidiabetic drugs including sitagliptin and insulin glargine.
In a prospective cardiovascular outcome trial in patients with type 2 diabetes and a history of cardiovascular event or at high cardiovascular risk, semaglutide decreased the risk of cardiovascular events. The most common side effects of semaglutide are gastrointestinal.
Their characteristics and frequency are similar to other GLP-1 receptor agonists. Semaglutide shall be introduced to the market in the Czech Republic next year.
In addition to administration in a subcutaneous injection, an oral form of semaglutide administered once daily is in the advanced stage of clinical development.