Semaglutide is a synthetic analog of the naturally-occurring hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). It is produced in the small intestine in response to food intake and plays a critical role in regulating blood sugar levels.

This peptide mimics how GLP-1 works, by binding to and activating the GLP-1 receptor. This results in increased insulin secretion and decreased glucagon secretion, which leads to lower blood glucose levels. In addition, semaglutide peptide slows down gastric emptying, which reduces the rate at which food is absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to a prolonged feeling of fullness.