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Semaglutide
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3 mg PO once daily for 30 days, then 7 mg PO once daily, initially. May increase the dose to 14 mg PO once daily after at least 30 days on 7 mg/day if additional glycemic control is needed. Administering two 7 mg tablets to achieve a 14 mg dose is not recommended.[64637]
7 or 14 mg PO once daily for 0.5 mg subcutaneously once weekly starting up to 7 days after the last injection. There is no equivalent oral dose for a 1 mg subcutaneous dose.[64637]
0.25 mg subcutaneously once weekly for 4 weeks, then 0.5 mg subcutaneously once weekly, initially. May increase the dose to 1 mg subcutaneously once weekly after 4 weeks on 0.5 mg/week and 2 mg subcutaneously once weekly after 4 weeks on 1 mg/week if additional glycemic control is needed.[62656]
0.5 mg subcutaneously once weekly for 14 mg PO once daily starting the day after the last oral dose. There is no equivalent oral dose for a 1 mg subcutaneous dose.[64637]
0.25 mg subcutaneously once weekly for 4 weeks, then 0.5 mg subcutaneously once weekly, initially. May increase the dose to 1 mg subcutaneously once weekly after 4 weeks on 0.5 mg/week and 2 mg subcutaneously once weekly after 4 weeks on 1 mg/week if additional glycemic control is needed.[62656]
0.25 mg subcutaneously once weekly for weeks 1 through 4, then 0.5 mg subcutaneously once weekly for weeks 5 through 8, then 1 mg subcutaneously once weekly for weeks 9 through 12, then 1.7 mg subcutaneously once weekly for weeks 13 through 16. From week 17 and onward, a maintenance dose of 2.4 mg (recommended) or 1.7 mg subcutaneously once weekly. Consider delaying dose escalation for 4 weeks if a dose increase is not tolerated. Assess treatment response and tolerability when selecting the maintenance dose.[66713]
NOTE: Semaglutide is indicated in adults with an initial body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or more or 27 kg/m2 or more in the presence of other risk factors (e.g., hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidemia) and pediatric individuals age 12 years and older with an initial BMI at the 95th percentile or more for age and sex.[66713]
0.25 mg subcutaneously once weekly for 4 weeks, then 0.5 mg subcutaneously once weekly for 4 weeks, then 1 mg subcutaneously once weekly for 4 weeks, then 1.7 mg subcutaneously once weekly for 4 weeks, and then 1.7 or 2.4 mg (recommended) subcutaneously once weekly. Consider delaying dose escalation for 4 weeks if a dose increase is not tolerated. Assess treatment response and tolerability when selecting the maintenance dose.[66713]
0.25 mg subcutaneously once weekly for 4 weeks, then 0.5 mg subcutaneously once weekly for 4 weeks, then 1 mg subcutaneously once weekly for 4 weeks, then 1.7 mg subcutaneously once weekly for 4 weeks, and then 2.4 mg subcutaneously once weekly. Consider delaying dose escalation for 4 weeks if a dose increase is not tolerated. May decrease dose to 1.7 mg subcutaneously once weekly if the 2.4 mg dose is not tolerated. Discontinue use if the 1.7 mg dose is not tolerated.[66713] [71238]
Blood glucose goals for adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes [64926]:
A1C goals for adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes [64926]:
2 mg/week subcutaneously for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus; 2.4 mg/week subcutaneously for the treatment of obesity; 14 mg/day PO for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
2 mg/week subcutaneously for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus; 2.4 mg/week subcutaneously for the treatment of obesity; 14 mg/day PO for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
2.4 mg/week subcutaneously for the treatment of obesity; safety and efficacy have not been established for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
12 years: 2.4 mg/week subcutaneously for the treatment of obesity; safety and efficacy have not been established for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
1 to 11 years: Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Safety and efficacy have not been established.
No dosage adjustments are needed.[62656][64637][66713]
No dosage adjustments are needed; however, use caution in patients with renal impairment or end-stage renal disease (renal failure).[62656][64637][66713]
† Off-label indication
Semaglutide is a synthetic glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) that belongs to a class of antidiabetic agents called incretin mimetics. Semaglutide subcutaneous injection (Ozempic) and oral tablets (Rybelsus) are used as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).[62656][64637] Semaglutide subcutaneous injection (Ozempic) is also used to reduce the risk of non-fatal cardiovascular (CV) events and CV mortality in T2DM patients with CV disease.[62656][64937] Semaglutide oral tablets demonstrated CV safety by meeting the primary endpoint of non-inferiority for the composite major cardiovascular events (MACE) endpoint; the proportion of patients who experienced at least one MACE was 3.8% with semaglutide oral tablets and 4.8% with placebo.[64938] However, semaglutide oral tablets are not approved for the reduction of CV events.[64637] As with other agents in this class, semaglutide has a boxed warning regarding rodent thyroid C-cell tumor findings and the uncertain relevance to humans.[62656][64637] First-line T2DM therapy depends on comorbidities, patient-centered treatment factors, and management needs. In adults with T2DM and established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) or indicators of high ASCVD risk, a GLP-1 RA with proven CV benefit (e.g., liraglutide, semaglutide, or dulaglutide) should be initiated as a first-line therapy independent of A1C goal or other antihyperglycemic treatments, including metformin. Alternatively, a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2 inhibitor) with proven CV benefit (e.g., canagliflozin, empagliflozin), may be used to reduce the risk of MACE or CV death in persons with T2DM and established ASCVD. GLP-1 RAs improve CV outcomes, as well as secondary outcomes such as progression of renal disease, in patients with established CV disease or chronic kidney disease (CKD); these factors make GLP-1 RA therapy an alternative initial treatment option, with or without metformin based on glycemic needs, in T2DM patients with indicators of high-risk or established heart failure (HF) or CKD who cannot tolerate an SGLT2 inhibitor. In patients with T2DM who do not have ASCVD/indicators of high-risk, HF, or CKD and who need to minimize hypoglycemia and/or promote weight loss, GLP-1 RAs, including dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP)/ GLP-1 agonists are generally recommended as a second-line option as add-on to metformin therapy. GLP-1 RAs and dual GIP/ GLP-1 agonists have high glucose-lowering efficacy; evidence suggests that the glucose-lowering effect may be greatest for tirzepatide, followed by semaglutide once weekly, dulaglutide and liraglutide, closely followed by exenatide once weekly, and then exenatide twice daily and lixisenatide. Semaglutide and tirzepatide produce the most weight loss, followed by dulaglutide and liraglutide, and then exenatide and lixisenatide.[50321][64926][60608] Semaglutide subcutaneous injection (Wegovy) is indicated as an adjunct to lifestyle modifications for weight loss and chronic weight management for obese (BMI 30 kg/m2 or greater) or overweight adults (BMI 27 kg/m2 or greater) with at least 1 weight-related comorbid condition (e.g., hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, or dyslipidemia) and for pediatric patients aged 12 years and older with an initial BMI at the 95th percentile or greater. Semaglutide subcutaneous injection (Wegovy) is also indicated to reduce the risk of MACE in adults with established cardiovascular disease and obesity or who are overweight. Four clinical trials for weight management were conducted pre-approval in adults. Depending on the clinical trial, more treated participants lost 5% up to 15% of their initial body weight vs. those taking placebo. In a clinical trial in pediatric patients 12 years and older, patients experienced a 14.7% decrease in body weight from baseline while placebo-treated patients experienced a 2.7% increase in bodyweight. In a cardiovascular outcomes trial with semaglutide injection for weight management in adults, semaglutide reduced the risk for first occurrence of MACE (hazard ratio 0.8 (95% CI 0.72 to 0.9)).[66713] According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and American College of Endocrinology (AACE/ACE) Obesity Clinical Practice Guidelines, weight loss medications should be offered as chronic treatment along with lifestyle modifications to patients with obesity when the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Short-term pharmacotherapy has not been shown to produce longer-term health benefits and cannot be generally recommended. A generalized hierarchy for medication preferences that would apply to all overweight patients cannot currently be scientifically justified. Individualized weight loss pharmacotherapy is recommended, based upon factors such as the specific characteristics of each weight loss medication, the presence of weight-related complications, and the medical history of the patient.[62881] Semaglutide was initially FDA approved in2017.[62656][64637][66713]
NOTE: In December 2023, the FDA warned about counterfeit semaglutide (Ozempic or Wegovy) products. Wholesalers, retail pharmacies, health care practitioners and patients are advised to check the products they have received and not distribute, use, or sell products labeled with lot number NAR0074 and serial number 430834149057. The FDA and Novo Nordisk are testing the seized products and do not yet have information about the drugs' identity, quality, or safety. Analysis found the needles from the samples are counterfeit and therefore, the sterility of the needles cannot be confirmed, which presents an increased risk of infection. Other confirmed counterfeit components within the seized products are the pen label, accompanying health care professional and patient information, and carton. The FDA is aware of 5 adverse events from this lot, none of which are serious and are consistent with known common adverse reactions to authentic semaglutide. FDA recommends retail pharmacies only purchase authentic products through authorized distributors and review the photographs and information to confirm the legitimacy of their shipments. Patients should only obtain semaglutide products with a valid prescription through state-licensed pharmacies and check the product before using for any signs of counterfeiting. Health care professionals and consumers should report adverse events related to the use of this product to FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program. Retailers and patients may also contact Novo Nordisk customer care at 1-800-727-6500 with questions or concerns.[70063]
For storage information, see the specific product information within the How Supplied section.
Ozempic Pen
General information
Subcutaneous Pen Administration (Ozempic Pen)
Wegovy Pen
General information
Subcutaneous Pen Administration (Wegovy Pen)
In monotherapy trials with semaglutide injection for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), severe hypoglycemia (requiring the assistance of another person) was not reported in either the treatment group or the placebo group. Documented symptomatic hypoglycemia (glucose of 70 mg/dL or less) was reported in 1.6% to 3.8% of patients receiving semaglutide injection vs. 0% of patients receiving placebo. Severe or blood glucose confirmed symptomatic hypoglycemia (glucose of 56 mg/dL or less) was not reported in any of the patients receiving semaglutide monotherapy compared to 1.6% of patients receiving placebo. In trials where semaglutide was added on to basal insulin with or without metformin, severe hypoglycemia (requiring the assistance of another person) was reported in 1.5% of semaglutide-treated patients. Documented symptomatic hypoglycemia (glucose of 70 mg/dL or less) was reported in 16.7% to 29.8% of patients receiving semaglutide, and severe or blood glucose confirmed symptomatic hypoglycemia (glucose of 56 mg/dL or less) was reported in 8.3% to 10.7% of patients receiving semaglutide. Hypoglycemia was more frequent when semaglutide was used in combination with a sulfonylurea; severe hypoglycemia occurred in 0.8% and 1.2% of patients when semaglutide 0.5 mg and 1 mg, respectively, was given with a sulfonylurea. In addition, documented symptomatic hypoglycemia occurred in 17.3% and 24.4% of patients and severe or blood glucose confirmed symptomatic hypoglycemia (glucose of 56 mg/dL or less) occurred in 6.5% and 10.4% of patients when semaglutide 0.5 mg and 1 mg, respectively, was given with a sulfonylurea.[62656] In monotherapy trials with semaglutide oral tablets for T2DM, severe hypoglycemia (requiring the assistance of another person) was reported in 1% of patients receiving the 7 mg tablets and 0% of patients receiving the 14 mg tablets or placebo. A blood glucose level of 54 mg/dL or less occurred in 1% of patients receiving placebo and 0% of the semaglutide oral treatment groups. Severe hypoglycemia was not reported in any patients enrolled in trials where semaglutide tablets were added on to metformin and/or sulfonylurea, basal insulin alone, or metformin in combination with basal insulin in patients with moderate renal impairment. In contrast, blood glucose level of 54 mg/dL or less occurred in 6% of patients receiving the 14 mg tablets and 3% of patients receiving placebo. In trials when semaglutide was added on to insulin with or without metformin, severe hypoglycemia was reported in 1% of patients receiving the 14 mg tablets, 1% of patients receiving placebo, and 0% of the patients receiving the 7 mg tablets. A blood glucose level of 54 mg/dL or less was reported in 26% of patients receiving the 7 mg tablets, 30% of patients receiving the 14 mg tablets, and 32% with placebo.[64637] In a trial of patients with T2DM and a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or greater being treated with semaglutide injection for weight loss, clinically significant hypoglycemia (plasma glucose less than 54 mg/dL) was reported in 6.2% of semaglutide-treated patients versus 2.5% of placebo-treated patients. A higher rate of clinically significant hypoglycemic episodes was reported with the semaglutide 2.4 mg/week dose versus the 1 mg/week dose (10.7 vs. 7.2 episodes per 100 patient-years of exposure, respectively); the rate in the placebo-treated group was 3.2 episodes per 100 patient years of exposure. In addition, one episode of severe hypoglycemia requiring intravenous glucose was reported in a semaglutide-treated patient. The risk of hypoglycemia was increased when semaglutide was used with a sulfonylurea. In a cardiovascular outcomes trial in adults without T2DM, 3 episodes of serious hypoglycemia were reported in semaglutide-treated patients compared to 1 episode in placebo-treated patients. Patients with a history of bariatric surgery, a risk factor for hypoglycemia, had more events of serious hypoglycemia while taking semaglutide (2.3%) compared to placebo (0%).[66713]
As with other GLP-1 analogs, gastrointestinal (GI) events are the most commonly reported adverse effects with semaglutide. More patients receiving semaglutide discontinued treatment due to GI adverse reactions than patients receiving placebo during all clinical trials. The following adverse effects were reported in patients receiving semaglutide injection or oral tablets across all clinical trials and at incidences higher than with placebo: nausea (11% to 44%), vomiting (5% to 36%), diarrhea (8.5% to 30%), abdominal pain (5.7% to 20%), abdominal distention (2% to 7%), constipation (3.1% to 24%), dyspepsia (0.6% to 9%), decreased appetite (6% to 9%), eructation (0.6% to 7%), flatulence (0.4% to 6%), gastroesophageal reflux disease (1.5% to 5%), gastroenteritis (4% to 7%), and gastritis (0.4% to 4%). The majority of reports of nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea occurred during dose escalation. Appendicitis was reported in 10 (0.5%) semaglutide-treated patients vs. 2 (0.2%) placebo-treated patients during clinical trials of semaglutide injection used for weight management. In the trial with semaglutide 1 mg and 2 mg injection for type 2 diabetes mellitus, GI events occurred more frequently among patients receiving semaglutide 2 mg injection (34%) compared to semaglutide 1 mg injection (30.8%). Ileus has been reported during postmarketing experience with both oral and subcutaneous semaglutide. Additionally, hemorrhoids and hiccups have also been reported in clinical trials with semaglutide injection for weight management.[62656] [64637] [66713]
Acute gallbladder disease events, such as cholecystitis or cholelithiasis, have been reported in clinical studies with semaglutide. In clinical trials of semaglutide injection for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), cholelithiasis was reported in 1.5% and 0.4% of patients treated with semaglutide 0.5 mg and 1 mg subcutaneous injection, respectively. Cholelithiasis was not reported in placebo-treated patients.[62656] In clinical trials of oral semaglutide for T2DM, cholelithiasis was reported in 1% of patients treated with semaglutide 7 mg PO. Cholelithiasis was not reported in patients receiving the 14 mg PO or placebo-treated patients.[64637] In clinical trials of semaglutide injection for weight management in adults, cholelithiasis was reported in 1.6% of semaglutide-treated patients compared with 0.7% of placebo-treated patients. Cholecystitis was reported in 0.6% of semaglutide-treated patients (vs. 0.2%, placebo). In clinical trials of semaglutide injection for weight management in pediatric patients, cholelithiasis (3.8%) and cholecystitis (0.8%) were reported in semaglutide-treated patients compared to 0% placebo-treated patients. Substantial or rapid weight loss can increase the risk of cholelithiasis; however, the incidence of acute gallbladder disease was greater in semaglutide-treated patients than in placebo-treated patients, even after accounting for the degree of weight loss.[66713] Cholecystectomy has been reported during postmarketing use.[62656] During clinical trials in pediatric patients 12 years and older, elevated hepatic enzymes (increased alanine aminotransferase [ALT]) greater than or equal to 5 times the upper limit of normal were observed in 3% of semaglutide-treated patients compared to 0% of placebo-treated patients. In some patients, increases in ALT and AST were associated with other confounding factors (i.e., gallstones). Additionally, in a cardiovascular outcomes trial in adults without T2DM, hyperbilirubinemia (total bilirubin of 3 or more times the upper limit of normal) was reported in 0.3% of semaglutide-treated patients compared to 0.2% of placebo-treated patients.[66713]
In placebo-controlled trials of semaglutide injection for type 2 diabetes mellitus, fatigue, dysgeusia, and dizziness were reported in greater than 0.4% of semaglutide-treated patients.[62656] Dysgeusia (1.7%) was also reported in clinical trials with semaglutide injection for weight management.[66713] In placebo-controlled trials of semaglutide injection for weight management, headache (14% to 17%), fatigue (11%), dizziness (8%), and anxiety (4%) were reported in treated patients.[66713] Suicidal behavior and suicidal ideation have been reported in clinical trials with other incretin mimetics indicated for weight management. Monitor patients for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior, and any unusual changes in moods or behaviors. Discontinue semaglutide in patients who develop suicidal thoughts or behaviors.[66713] In January 2024, the FDA announced that they have not found evidence that use of GLP-1 RAs for type 2 diabetes or weight management causes suicidal thoughts or actions. During their preliminary evaluation, they conducted detailed reviews of reports of suicidal thoughts or actions received in the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) and reviews of clinical trials, including large outcome studies and observational studies. However, because of the small number of suicidal thoughts or actions observed in both people using GLP-1 RAs and in the comparative control groups, they cannot definitively rule out that a small risk may exist; therefore, FDA is continuing to look into this issue. Further evaluations include a meta-analysis of clinical trials across all GLP-1 RA products and an analysis of postmarketing data in the Sentinel System; final conclusions and recommendations will be communicated once more information is known.[70130]
In placebo-controlled trials for type 2 diabetes mellitus, an injection site reaction (e.g., injection-site discomfort, erythema) was reported in 0.2% of patients receiving semaglutide. In clinical trials, 1.4% of patients treated with semaglutide injection for weight management experienced injection site reactions (including injection site pruritus, erythema, inflammation, induration, and irritation) vs. 1% with placebo.[62656] [66713]
Antibody formation against semaglutide has been reported. In clinical trials with semaglutide injection for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), 32 (1%) patients receiving semaglutide tested positive for anti-semaglutide antibodies. Of these 32 semaglutide-treated patients that developed anti-semaglutide antibodies, 19 patients (0.6% of the overall population) developed antibodies cross-reacting with native GLP-1.[62656] In clinical trials with semaglutide oral tablets for T2DM, 14 (0.5%) patients developed anti-semaglutide antibodies. Of the 14 semaglutide-treated patients that developed anti-semaglutide antibodies, 7 patients (0.2% of the overall population) developed antibodies cross-reacting with native GLP-1.[64637] In clinical trials with semaglutide injection for weight management, 50 (3%) patients receiving semaglutide tested positive for anti-semaglutide antibodies. Of these 50 semaglutide-treated patients that developed anti-semaglutide antibodies, 28 patients (2% of the overall population) developed antibodies cross-reacting with native GLP-1.[66713] The in vitro neutralizing activity of the antibodies is uncertain at this time. The incidence of antibodies to semaglutide cannot be directly compared with the incidence of antibodies of other products.[62656] [64637] [66713]
There have been postmarketing reports of acute renal failure (unspecified) and worsening of chronic renal failure, which occasionally required hemodialysis, in patients treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists. Some of these events were reported in patients without known underlying renal disease. A majority of reported events occurred in patients who had experienced gastrointestinal reactions such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration. In clinical trials of semaglutide injection for weight management, acute kidney injury occurred in 7 patients (0.4 cases per 100 patient-years) receiving semaglutide vs. 4 patients (0.2 cases per 100 patient-years) receiving placebo. The risk of renal adverse reactions was increased in patients with a history of renal impairment (the weight management trials included 65 patients with a history of moderate or severe renal impairment at baseline), and occurred more frequently during dose titration. Monitor renal function when initiating or escalating doses of semaglutide in patients reporting severe adverse GI reactions.[62656] [64637] [66713] In a cardiovascular outcomes trial involving adults without type 2 diabetes mellitus, urolithiasis was reported in 1.2% of semaglutide-treated patients vs. 0.8% of placebo-treated patients, including serious reactions that were reported more frequently in patients receiving semaglutide (0.6%) vs. placebo (0.4%).[66713]
In clinical trials of semaglutide for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), patients exposed to semaglutide subcutaneous injection reported increases in amylase (hyperamylasemia) and lipase, and had a mean increase from baseline in amylase of 13% and lipase of 22%. These changes were not observed in placebo-treated patients.[62656] In trials with semaglutide oral tablets, patients exposed to semaglutide 7 mg and 14 mg oral tablets had a mean increase from baseline in amylase of 10% and 13%, respectively, and lipase of 30% and 34%, respectively. These changes were not observed in placebo-treated patients.[64637] In clinical trials of semaglutide injection for weight management, patients treated with semaglutide had a mean increase from baseline in amylase of 15% to 16% and lipase of 39%. These changes were not observed in the placebo group.[66713] There have been reports of acute pancreatitis in patients taking semaglutide during premarketing trials. In glycemic control trials with semaglutide injection, acute pancreatitis was reported in 7 semaglutide-treated patients (0.3 cases per 100 patient-years) versus 3 in comparator-treated patients (0.2 cases per 100 patient-years). One case of chronic pancreatitis was confirmed in a semaglutide-treated patient. In a 2-year trial, acute pancreatitis was reported in 8 semaglutide-treated patients (0.27 cases per 100 patient-years) and 10 placebo-treated patients (0.33 cases per 100 patient-years), both on a background of standard of care.[62656] In trials of patients receiving oral semaglutide, pancreatitis was reported as a serious adverse event in 6 patients (0.1 events per 100 patient-years) receiving semaglutide versus 1 in comparator-treated patients (less than 0.1 events per 100 patient-years).[64637] In clinical trials of semaglutide injection for weight management, acute pancreatitis was confirmed by adjudication in 4 semaglutide-treated patients (0.2 cases per 100 patient-years) versus 1 in placebo-treated patients (less than 0.1 cases per 100 patient-years). One additional case of acute pancreatitis was confirmed in a patient treated with semaglutide in another clinical trial.[66713] The FDA and the EMA have stated that after review of published and unpublished reports, the current data do not support an increased risk of pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer in patients receiving incretin mimetics. The agencies have not reached any new conclusions about safety risks of the incretin mimetics, although they have expressed that the totality of the data that have been reviewed provides reassurance. Continue to consider precautions related to pancreatic risk until more data are available.[53573] [56778] After treatment initiation and dose increases, patients should be observed carefully for signs and symptoms of pancreatitis (including persistent severe abdominal pain, sometimes radiating to the back and which may or may not be accompanied by vomiting). Semaglutide for T2DM has not been studied in patients with a history of pancreatitis and there is limited data from clinical trials with semaglutide injection for weight management. It is not known whether these patients are at an increased risk for developing pancreatitis.[62656] [64637] [66713]
During a clinical trial in pediatric patients 12 years and older receiving semaglutide for weight management, rash (3%) and urticaria (3%) were reported. Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, anaphylactoid reactions, angioedema, rash, and urticaria, have been reported postmarketing with use of semaglutide.[62656] [64637] [66713]
Sinus tachycardia was observed during clinical studies of semaglutide injection for weight management; mean increases in resting heart rate of 1 to 4 beats per minute (bpm) were seen with routine clinical monitoring in semaglutide-treated patients vs. placebo. More patients treated with semaglutide than with placebo had maximum changes from baseline at any visit of 10 to 19 bpm (41% vs. 34%, respectively) and 20 bpm or more (26% vs. 16%, respectively). In a clinical trial of pediatric patients aged 12 years and older, more patients treated with semaglutide compared to placebo had maximum changes in heart rate of 20 bpm or more (54% versus 39%). In placebo-controlled trials for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), semaglutide injection 0.5 and 1 mg resulted in a mean increase in heart rate of 2 to 3 bpm. There was a mean decrease in heart rate of 0.3 bpm in placebo-treated patients. In placebo-controlled trials of oral semaglutide for T2DM, semaglutide 7 and 14 mg resulted in a mean increase in heart rate of 2 to 3 bpm. There was no change in heart rate in placebo-treated patients. Heart rate should be monitored at regular intervals consistent with usual clinical practice in patients taking semaglutide and patients should inform health care providers of palpitations or feelings of a racing heartbeat while at rest during semaglutide treatment. For patients who experience a sustained increase in resting heart rate while taking semaglutide, the drug should be discontinued.[62656] [64637] [66713] Adverse reactions related to hypotension (hypotension, orthostatic hypotension, and decreased blood pressure) were reported in 1.3% to 2.3% of semaglutide-treated patients versus 0% to 0.4% of placebo-treated patients during clinical trials of semaglutide injection for weight management. Syncope was reported in 0.8% and 0.2% of patients, respectively. Some reactions were related to gastrointestinal adverse reactions and volume loss associated with semaglutide. In adult patients, hypotension and orthostatic hypotension were more frequently seen in patients on concomitant antihypertensive therapy.[66713]
Hair loss (alopecia) was reported in 3% to 4% of patients receiving semaglutide injection for weight management during clinical trials vs. 0% to 1% of patients receiving placebo.[66713]
Rapid improvement in glucose control has been associated with a temporary worsening of diabetic retinopathy. In a 2-year trial involving patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and high cardiovascular risk, more events of diabetic retinopathy complications occurred in the patients treated with semaglutide injection (3%) compared to placebo (1.8%). The absolute risk increase for diabetic retinopathy complications was greater among patients with a history of diabetic retinopathy at baseline (semaglutide 8.2%, placebo 5.2%) than among patients without a known history of diabetic retinopathy (semaglutide 0.7%, placebo 0.4%).[62656] In a pooled analysis of glycemic control trials with oral semaglutide for T2DM, diabetic retinopathy complications occurred in 4.2% of patients receiving semaglutide vs. 3.8% with comparator.[64637] In a trial of patients with T2DM and BMI 27 kg/m2 or more receiving semaglutide injection for weight management, retinal disorders were reported by 6.9% of patients treated with semaglutide 2.4 mg/week, 6.2% of patients treated with semaglutide 1 mg/week, and 4.2% of patients treated with placebo. The majority of events were reported as diabetic retinopathy (4%, 2.7%, and 2.7%, respectively) and non-proliferative retinopathy (0.7%, 0%, and 0%, respectively).[66713] The effect of long-term glycemic control with semaglutide on diabetic retinopathy complications has not been studied. Patients with a history of diabetic retinopathy should be monitored for progression of diabetic retinopathy during treatment.[62656] [64637] [66713]
Semaglutide may be associated with the development of a new primary malignancy. Nonclinical studies in rodents of clinically relevant doses of GLP-1 receptor agonists showed dose-related and treatment-duration-dependent increases in the incidence of thyroid C-cell tumors (adenomas and carcinomas). It is unknown whether GLP-1 receptor agonists are associated with thyroid C-cell tumors, including MTC in humans. Patients should be counseled on the risk and symptoms of thyroid tumors (e.g. symptoms may include a mass in the neck, dysphagia, dyspnea or persistent hoarseness). Although routine monitoring of serum calcitonin is of uncertain value in patients treated with semaglutide, if serum calcitonin is measured and found to be elevated, the patient should be referred to an endocrinologist for further evaluation.[62656] [64637] [66713]
During a clinical trial in pediatric patients 12 years and older receiving semaglutide for weight management, naso-pharyngitis (12% vs. 10% placebo), sinusitis (4% vs. 2% placebo), urinary tract infection (4% vs. 2% placebo), and influenza (3% vs. 0% placebo) were reported. Ligament sprain was reported in 4% of pediatric patients 12 years and older receiving semaglutide for weight management compared to 2% of patients receiving placebo.[66713]
In clinical trials with semaglutide injection for weight management, dysesthesia, which includes paresthesias, hyperesthesia, burning sensation/skin burning sensation, allodynia, skin pain, and sensitive skin, was reported in 2% of semaglutide-treated patients compared to 1% placebo.[66713]
In a cardiovascular outcomes trial of adults without type 2 diabetes mellitus, bone fractures (e.g., hip and pelvis fractures) were reported more frequently in adult females and adults aged 75 years and older taking semaglutide (1% and 2.4%, respectively) compared to placebo (0.2% and 0.6%, respectively).[66713]
There have been postmarketing reports of perioperative pulmonary aspiration in patients receiving GLP-1 receptor agonists who underwent elective surgery or procedures requiring general anesthesia or deep sedation. Despite adherence to preoperative fasting guidelines, these patients were found to have residual gastric contents. The available data is insufficient to give recommendations on mitigating the risk of pulmonary aspiration during general anesthesia or deep sedation in patients taking semaglutide, including whether to modify preoperative fasting recommendations or temporarily discontinue semaglutide.[62656] [64637] [66713]
Semaglutide is contraindicated in patients with a history of angioedema, anaphylaxis, or other serious hypersensitivity reaction to semaglutide. There is a risk of serious hypersensitivity reactions with semaglutide. Serious hypersensitivity reactions have also been reported during postmarketing use with other GLP-1 receptor agonists. Use caution in patients with a history of anaphylaxis or angioedema to other GLP-1 receptor agonists because it is unknown whether such patients will be predisposed to serious reactions with semaglutide. If a serious hypersensitivity reaction is suspected, discontinue semaglutide. Treat promptly per standard of care, and monitor until signs and symptoms resolve.[62656] [64637] [66713]
Semaglutide is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of certain types of thyroid cancer, specifically thyroid C-cell tumors such as medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), or in patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Semaglutide has been shown to cause dose-dependent and treatment duration-dependent malignant thyroid C-cell tumors at clinically relevant exposures in both genders of rats and mice. A statistically significant increase in cancer was observed in rats receiving semaglutide at all dose levels (greater than 2X human exposure). It is unknown whether semaglutide causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans. Cases of MTC in patients treated with liraglutide, another GLP-1 receptor agonist, have been reported in the postmarketing period; the data in these reports are insufficient to establish or exclude a causal relationship between MTC and GLP-1 receptor agonist use in humans. In clinical trials, there were 7 reported cases of papillary thyroid carcinoma in patients treated with liraglutide and 1 case in a comparator-treated patient (1.5 vs. 0.5 cases per 1,000 patient-years). Most of these papillary thyroid carcinomas were less than 1 cm in greatest diameter and were diagnosed after thyroidectomy, which was prompted by finding on protocol-specified screening with serum calcitonin or thyroid ultrasound.[38653] Patients should be counseled on the potential risk and symptoms of thyroid tumors (e.g. a mass in the neck, dysphagia, dyspnea or persistent hoarseness). Although routine monitoring of serum calcitonin is of uncertain value in patients treated with semaglutide, if serum calcitonin is measured and found to be elevated, the patient should be referred to an endocrinologist for further evaluation.[62656] [64637] [66713]
Semaglutide should not be used for the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus.[62656] [64637]
Hypoglycemia should be monitored for by the patient and clinician when semaglutide treatment is initiated and continued for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and when used for weight reduction and maintenance. In a clinical trial of semaglutide injection for weight loss (Wegovy) in patients with T2DM and a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or more, hypoglycemia (defined as a plasma glucose less than 54 mg/dL) was reported in 6.2% of semaglutide-treated patients versus 2.5% of placebo-treated patients. One episode of severe hypoglycemia (requiring the assistance of another person) was reported in one semaglutide-treated patient versus no placebo-treated patients. In clinical trials of semaglutide injection for T2DM (Ozempic), hypoglycemia was increased when semaglutide was used in combination with a sulfonylurea; patients receiving semaglutide in combination with an insulin secretagogue (e.g., sulfonylurea) or insulin may have an increased risk of hypoglycemia, including severe hypoglycemia. Although specific dose recommendations are not available, the clinician should consider a dose reduction of the sulfonylurea or insulin when used in combination with semaglutide.[62656] [64637] [66713] In addition, when semaglutide is used in combination with insulin detemir, the dose of insulin should be evaluated; in patients at increased risk of hypoglycemia consider reducing the dose of insulin at initiation of semaglutide, followed by careful titration.[22300] Adequate blood glucose monitoring should be continued and followed. Patient and family education regarding hypoglycemia management is crucial; the patient and patient's family should be instructed on how to recognize and manage the symptoms of hypoglycemia. Early warning signs of hypoglycemia may be less obvious in patients with hypoglycemia unawareness which can be due to a long history of diabetes (where deficiencies in the release or response to counter regulatory hormones exist), with autonomic neuropathy, intensified diabetes control, or taking beta-blockers, guanethidine, or reserpine. Patients should be aware of the need to have a readily available source of glucose (dextrose, d-glucose) or other carbohydrate to treat hypoglycemic episodes. In severe hypoglycemia, intravenous dextrose or glucagon injections may be needed. Because hypoglycemic events may be difficult to recognize in some elderly patients, antidiabetic agent regimens should be carefully managed to obviate an increased risk of severe hypoglycemia. Severe or frequent hypoglycemia in a patient is an indication for the modification of treatment regimens, including setting higher glycemic goals.[62656] [64926] Semaglutide may have particular benefits when used in patients with T2DM who are overweight. According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and American College of Endocrinology (AACE/ACE) Obesity Clinical Practice Guidelines, weight loss medications should be considered as an adjunct to lifestyle therapy in all patients with T2DM as needed for weight loss sufficient to improve glycemic control, lipids, and blood pressure.[62881]
Semaglutide for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has not been studied in patients with a history of pancreatitis and there is limited data from clinical trials with semaglutide injection for weight management. It is not known whether these patients are at an increased risk for developing pancreatitis. After initiation and dose increases, patients should be observed carefully for signs and symptoms of pancreatitis (including persistent severe abdominal pain, sometimes radiating to the back and which may or may not be accompanied by vomiting). If pancreatitis is suspected, discontinue semaglutide; if pancreatitis is confirmed, do not resume semaglutide. Acute pancreatitis, including fatal and non-fatal hemorrhagic or necrotizing pancreatitis, has been observed in patients treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists, including semaglutide.[62656] [64637] [66713] The FDA and the EMA have stated that after review of published and unpublished reports, the current data do not support an increased risk of pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer in patients receiving incretin mimetics. The agencies have not reached any new conclusions about safety risks of the incretin mimetics, although they have expressed that the totality of the data that have been reviewed provides reassurance. Continue to consider precautions related to pancreatic risk until more data are available.[53573] [56778] According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and American College of Endocrinology (AACE/ACE) Obesity Clinical Practice Guidelines, obese patients receiving incretin-based therapies for weight loss should be monitored for the development of pancreatitis. Incretin-based therapies should be avoided in patients with prior or current pancreatitis; otherwise, there are insufficient data to recommend withholding them for weight loss due to concerns of pancreatitis.[62881]
Use semaglutide with caution in patients with known gallbladder disease or a history of cholelithiasis. If cholelithiasis or cholecystitis are suspected in a patient taking semaglutide, gallbladder studies are indicated. Acute gallbladder disease events, such as cholecystitis or cholelithiasis, have been reported in clinical studies of patients receiving semaglutide for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and for weight management.[62656] [64637] [66713] For weight management, the incidence of cholecystitis or cholelithiasis was higher in subcutaneous semaglutide treated pediatric patients 12 years and older compared to adult patients. Substantial or rapid weight loss can increase the risk of cholelithiasis; however, the incidence of acute gallbladder disease was greater in semaglutide-treated patients than in placebo-treated patients, even after accounting for the degree of weight loss.[66713] According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and American College of Endocrinology (AACE/ACE) Obesity Clinical Practice Guidelines, close monitoring for cholelithiasis is recommended during weight loss therapy, regardless of modality. In high-risk patients, use semaglutide with caution. Effective preventative measures for patients at risk for cholelithiasis include a slower rate of weight loss, increasing/including some dietary fat in the diet (assuming the patient has been on a very low-calorie diet containing little or no fat), or administration of ursodeoxycholic acid.[62881]
During semaglutide therapy, patients with a history of diabetic retinopathy should be closely monitored. Inform patients to contact their care team if changes in vision are experienced during treatment. There is an increased risk for diabetic retinopathy complications in patients with a history of diabetic retinopathy at baseline compared to patients without a known history of diabetic retinopathy. In a 2-year trial involving patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and high cardiovascular risk, more events of diabetic retinopathy complications occurred in patients treated with semaglutide 0.5 and 1 mg once weekly injections (3%) compared to placebo (1.8%). The absolute risk increase for diabetic retinopathy complications was larger among patients with a history of diabetic retinopathy at baseline (semaglutide injection 8.2%, placebo 5.2%) than among patients without a known history of diabetic retinopathy (semaglutide injection 0.7%, placebo 0.4%). In a pooled analysis of glycemic control trials with oral semaglutide, diabetic retinopathy complications occurred in 4.2% of T2DM patients receiving semaglutide and 3.8% with comparator. In a trial of semaglutide injection (Wegovy) in patients with T2DM and BMI of 27 kg/m2 or more, diabetic retinopathy was reported by 4% of semaglutide-treated patients vs. 2.7% of placebo-treated patients. Rapid improvement in glucose control has been associated with a temporary worsening of diabetic retinopathy. The effect of long-term glycemic control with semaglutide on diabetic retinopathy complications has not been studied.[62656] [64637] [66713]
Use caution during treatment with semaglutide in patients with renal impairment or end-stage renal disease (renal failure); however, no dose adjustments are needed based on renal function. Use caution and monitor renal function when initiating or increasing doses of semaglutide in patients with renal impairment or any patients who report severe gastrointestinal reactions during use. There have been postmarketing reports of renal impairment, acute kidney injury, and worsening of chronic renal failure, which sometimes has required hemodialysis, in patients treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists. Some of these events have been reported in patients without known underlying renal disease. In many of these cases, altered renal function has been reversed with supportive treatment and discontinuation of potentially causative agents. A majority of the reported events occurred in patients who had experienced nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration.[62656] [64637] [66713]
Suicidal behavior and ideation have been reported in clinical trials with other incretin mimetics indicated for weight management. Therefore, administer semaglutide with caution in patients with depression and avoid use in patients with a history of suicide attempts or active suicidal ideation; monitor patients for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior, and any unusual changes in moods or behaviors. Discontinue semaglutide in patients who develop suicidal thoughts or behaviors.[66713] In January 2024, the FDA announced that they have not found evidence that use of GLP-1 RAs for type 2 diabetes or weight management causes suicidal thoughts or actions. During their preliminary evaluation, they conducted detailed reviews of reports of suicidal thoughts or actions received in the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) and reviews of clinical trials, including large outcome studies and observational studies. However, because of the small number of suicidal thoughts or actions observed in both people using GLP-1 RAs and in the comparative control groups, they cannot definitively rule out that a small risk may exist; therefore, FDA is continuing to look into this issue. Further evaluations include a meta-analysis of clinical trials across all GLP-1 RA products and an analysis of postmarketing data in the Sentinel System; final conclusions and recommendations will be communicated once more information is known.[70130] According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and American College of Endocrinology (AACE/ACE) Obesity Clinical Practice Guidelines, all patients undergoing weight loss therapy should be monitored for mood disorders, depression, and suicidal ideation. Caution is recommended in patients with a psychotic disorder (e.g., schizophrenia) due to insufficient data. Patients receiving an antipsychotic should be treated with structured lifestyle modifications to promote weight loss and weight gain prevention; these guidelines suggest that metformin may be beneficial for modest weight loss and metabolic improvements in patients receiving an antipsychotic.[62881]
Semaglutide (Wegovy) for the treatment of obesity or weight management should not be used during pregnancy because weight loss offers no potential benefit to a pregnant woman and may result in fetal harm due to the potential hazard of maternal weight loss to the fetus. Discontinue semaglutide in women of reproductive potential at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy, in order to account for a long washout period for semaglutide. There is a pregnancy exposure registry for women who use semaglutide intended for weight management (Wegovy) during pregnancy. Contact Novo Nordisk at 1-877-390-2760 or www.wegovypregnancyregistry.com for more information.[66713] According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists the and American College of Endocrinology (AACE/ACE) Obesity Clinical Practice Guidelines, weight loss medications must not be used during pregnancy; these guidelines recommend contraception requirements for patients of childbearing potential; those receiving semaglutide for weight reduction should use adequate contraception and discontinue semaglutide if pregnancy occurs.[62881] There are no adequate data or clinical studies of semaglutide use for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk for adverse developmental outcomes; use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Rat studies have noted embryofetal mortality, structural abnormalities, and alterations to growth at maternal exposures below the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) based on exposure AUC. In rabbits and cynomolgus monkeys administered semaglutide during organogenesis, early pregnancy losses and structural abnormalities were observed at below the MRHD (rabbit) and 5-fold or greater the MRHD (monkey). Poorly controlled diabetes during pregnancy also increases fetal risk.[62656] [64637] In addition, salcaprozate sodium (SNAC), an absorption enhancer in oral semaglutide tablets, crosses the placenta, and reaches fetal tissues in rats. In a pre- and postnatal development study of SNAC exposure, an increase in gestation length, an increase in the number of stillbirths, and a decrease in pup viability were observed.[64637] The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Diabetes Association (ADA) continue to recommend human insulin as the standard of care in pregnant women with diabetes mellitus and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) requiring medical therapy; insulin does not cross the placenta.[64926] [62358] [62656] [64637]
Semaglutide may be associated with reproductive risk and preconceptual planning is recommended; females of childbearing potential should discontinue semaglutide at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy due to the drug's long washout period.[62656] [64637] [66713]
Use injectable semaglutide with caution during lactation; oral semaglutide therapy is not recommended during breast-feeding. There are no data on the presence of semaglutide in human milk, the effects on the breast-fed infant, or the effects on milk production. Semaglutide was present in the milk of lactating rats and was detected at levels 3- to 12- fold lower than in maternal rat plasma.[62656] [64637] [66713] Salcaprozate sodium (SNAC) (an absorption enhancer in oral semaglutide tablets) and/or its metabolites concentrated in the milk of lactating rats. There are no data on the presence of SNAC in human milk. Since the activity of UGT2B7, an enzyme involved in SNAC clearance, is lower in infants compared to adults, higher SNAC plasma levels may occur in neonates and infants. Because of the unknown potential for serious adverse reactions in the breastfed infant due to the possible accumulation of SNAC from breast-feeding and because semaglutide injection can be considered for use during lactation, advise patients that breast-feeding is not recommended during treatment with oral semaglutide tablets.[64637] If semaglutide is discontinued in an individual with type 2 diabetes mellitus and blood glucose is not controlled on diet and exercise alone, insulin therapy may be considered. Oral hypoglycemics may also be considered. Metformin monotherapy may be appropriate for some patients as available studies indicate low excretion in milk and that maternal use during breast-feeding is not expected to result in side effects to a healthy nursing infant. Some experts recommend using metformin with caution if the patient is breastfeeding a newborn or a premature neonate with reduced renal function.[31407] [31408] [31409] [32459] [70364] Because acarbose has limited systemic absorption, which results in minimal maternal plasma concentrations, clinically significant exposure via breast milk is not expected; therefore, this agent may be an alternative if postprandial glucose control is needed.[46303] Glyburide may be a suitable alternative since it was not detected in the breast milk of lactating women who received single and multiple doses of glyburide.[31568] If any oral hypoglycemics are used during breast-feeding, the nursing infant should be monitored for signs of hypoglycemia, such as increased fussiness or somnolence.[46104]
Safety and efficacy were not different in geriatric adults versus younger adults during semaglutide clinical trials. In general, however, geriatric adults are especially at risk for hypoglycemic episodes.[62656] [64637] [66713] The specific reasons identified include intensive insulin therapy, decreased renal function, severe liver disease, alcohol ingestion, defective counter regulatory hormone release, missing meals/fasting, and gastroparesis. Because hypoglycemic events may be difficult to recognize in some older adults, antidiabetic agent regimens should be carefully managed to obviate an increased risk of severe hypoglycemia. Severe or frequent hypoglycemia is an indication for the modification of treatment regimens, including setting higher glycemic goals.[64926] In a cardiovascular outcomes trial, a higher incidence of hip and pelvis fractures occurred in adults aged 75 years and older treated with semaglutide compared to placebo. Both semaglutide- and placebo-treated adults aged 75 years and older reported more serious adverse reactions overall compared to younger adults.[66713]
Semaglutide should be used with caution in patients who will undergo elective surgery or procedures requiring general anesthesia or deep sedation. Semaglutide delays gastric emptying. There have been postmarketing reports of pulmonary aspiration in patients receiving GLP-1 receptor agonists who underwent elective surgery or procedures requiring general anesthesia or deep sedation. Despite adherence to preoperative fasting guidelines, these patients were found to have residual gastric contents. The available data is insufficient to give recommendations on mitigating the risk of pulmonary aspiration during general anesthesia or deep sedation in patients taking semaglutide, including whether to modify preoperative fasting recommendations or temporarily discontinue semaglutide.[62656] [64637] [66713]
Semaglutide an incretin mimetic; specifically, semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist with 94% sequence homology to human GLP-1. Semaglutide binds and activates the GLP-1 receptor.[62656][64637] GLP-1 is an important, gut-derived, glucose homeostasis regulator that is released after the oral ingestion of carbohydrates or fats. In patients with type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 concentrations are decreased in response to an oral glucose load. GLP-1 enhances insulin secretion; it increases glucose-dependent insulin synthesis and in vivo secretion of insulin from pancreatic beta cells in the presence of elevated glucose. In addition to increases in insulin secretion and synthesis, GLP-1 suppresses glucagon secretion, slows gastric emptying, reduces food intake, and promotes beta-cell proliferation.[38658] The principal mechanism of protraction resulting in the long half-life of semaglutide is albumin binding, which results in decreased renal clearance and protection from metabolic degradation; semaglutide is stabilized against degradation by the DPP-4 enzyme. Semaglutide reduces blood glucose through a mechanism where it stimulates insulin secretion and lowers glucagon secretion, both in a glucose-dependent manner. Therefore, when blood glucose is high, insulin secretion is stimulated and glucagon secretion is inhibited. The mechanism of blood glucose lowering also involves a minor delay in gastric emptying in the early postprandial phase.[62656][64637]
GLP-1 is also a physiological regulator of appetite and caloric intake and the GLP-1 receptor is present in several areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation. Semaglutide reduces caloric intake and delays gastric emptying. It lowers body weight with greater fat mass loss than lean mass loss. The exact mechanism of semaglutide for cardiovascular risk reduction has not been established.[66713]
Revision Date: 11/18/2024, 10:03:32 PMSemaglutide is given via subcutaneous or oral administration. The mean estimated volume of distribution is 12.5 L and 8 L following subcutaneous and oral administration; respectively. Semaglutide is more than 99% bound to plasma albumin. The primary route of elimination is metabolism following proteolytic cleavage of the peptide backbone and sequential beta-oxidation of the fatty acid side-chain. The primary excretion routes of semaglutide-related material is via the urine and feces. Approximately 3% of the dose is excreted in the urine as intact semaglutide. The clearance is approximately 0.05 L/hour and 0.04 L/hour following subcutaneous and oral administration; respectively. With an elimination half-life of approximately 1 week, semaglutide will be present in the circulation for about 5 weeks after the last dose and up to 7 weeks after the last dose for the treatment of obesity.[62656][64637][66713]
Affected cytochrome P450 (CYP450) isoenzymes and drug transporters: None
Semaglutide is co-formulated with salcaprozate sodium which facilitates the absorption of semaglutide after oral administration. The absorption of semaglutide primarily occurs in the stomach. Population pharmacokinetics (PK) estimated semaglutide exposure to increase in a dose-proportional manner. The mean population-PK estimated steady-state concentrations following once daily oral administration of 7 and 14 mg were approximately 6.7 nmol/L and 14.6 nmol/L, respectively. Following oral administration, maximum concentration of semaglutide is reached 1 hour post-dose. Steady-state exposure is achieved following 4 to 5 weeks administration. Population-PK estimated absolute bioavailability of semaglutide is approximately 0.4% to 1%, following oral administration.[64637]
Oral semaglutide tablets are formulated with salcaprozate sodium (SNAC), an absorption enhancer. UGT2B7 is an enzyme involved in SNAC clearance. SNAC crosses the placenta and reaches fetal tissues in rats and SNAC and/or its metabolites concentrated in the milk of lactating rats.[64637]
Following subcutaneous administration, maximum concentrations of semaglutide were attained at 1 to 3 days post-dosing. Similar exposure is achieved with subcutaneous administration of semaglutide in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. The absolute bioavailability of subcutaneous semaglutide is 89%.[62656][66713]
Hepatic impairment does not have any impact on the exposure of semaglutide. The pharmacokinetics of semaglutide were evaluated in patients with mild, moderate, and severe hepatic impairment compared with subjects with normal hepatic function in studies with either a single dose of 0.5 mg subcutaneous semaglutide or 10 consecutive days of once-daily semaglutide oral tablets.[62656][64637][66713]
Renal impairment does not impact the pharmacokinetics of semaglutide in a clinically relevant manner. This was evident in studies with either a single dose of 0.5 mg subcutaneous semaglutide or 10 consecutive days of once-daily oral doses of semaglutide in patients with mild, moderate, severe, and end stage renal disease (ESRD) compared with subjects with normal renal function; this was also shown for subjects with both type 2 diabetes mellitus and renal impairment based on data from clinical studies.[62656][64637][66713]
The pharmacokinetics of semaglutide have not been studied in children.[62656][64637][66713]
Age did not significantly affect the pharmacokinetics of semaglutide.[62656][64637][66713]
Gender did not significantly affect the pharmacokinetics of semaglutide.[62656][64637]
Race did not significantly affect the pharmacokinetics of semaglutide.[62656][64637][66713]
In the clinical trials, the exposure of semaglutide exhibited an indirect relationship with an increase in body weight; however, subcutaneous semaglutide doses of 0.5 mg and 1 mg provide adequate systemic exposure over the body weight range of 40 to 198 kg.[62656] Oral doses of 7 mg and 14 mg provide adequate systemic exposure over the body weight range of 40 to 188 kg.[64637]
Disease in the upper GI tract (chronic gastritis and/or gastroesophageal reflux disease) does not impact semaglutide pharmacokinetics in a clinically relevant manner; this was shown in a study in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with or without upper GI disease given semaglutide oral tablets once daily for 10 consecutive days.[64637]
Semaglutide (Wegovy) for the treatment of obesity or weight management should not be used during pregnancy because weight loss offers no potential benefit to a pregnant woman and may result in fetal harm due to the potential hazard of maternal weight loss to the fetus. Discontinue semaglutide in women of reproductive potential at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy, in order to account for a long washout period for semaglutide. There is a pregnancy exposure registry for women who use semaglutide intended for weight management (Wegovy) during pregnancy. Contact Novo Nordisk at 1-877-390-2760 or www.wegovypregnancyregistry.com for more information.[66713] According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists the and American College of Endocrinology (AACE/ACE) Obesity Clinical Practice Guidelines, weight loss medications must not be used during pregnancy; these guidelines recommend contraception requirements for patients of childbearing potential; those receiving semaglutide for weight reduction should use adequate contraception and discontinue semaglutide if pregnancy occurs.[62881] There are no adequate data or clinical studies of semaglutide use for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk for adverse developmental outcomes; use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Rat studies have noted embryofetal mortality, structural abnormalities, and alterations to growth at maternal exposures below the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) based on exposure AUC. In rabbits and cynomolgus monkeys administered semaglutide during organogenesis, early pregnancy losses and structural abnormalities were observed at below the MRHD (rabbit) and 5-fold or greater the MRHD (monkey). Poorly controlled diabetes during pregnancy also increases fetal risk.[62656] [64637] In addition, salcaprozate sodium (SNAC), an absorption enhancer in oral semaglutide tablets, crosses the placenta, and reaches fetal tissues in rats. In a pre- and postnatal development study of SNAC exposure, an increase in gestation length, an increase in the number of stillbirths, and a decrease in pup viability were observed.[64637] The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Diabetes Association (ADA) continue to recommend human insulin as the standard of care in pregnant women with diabetes mellitus and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) requiring medical therapy; insulin does not cross the placenta.[64926] [62358] [62656] [64637]
Use injectable semaglutide with caution during lactation; oral semaglutide therapy is not recommended during breast-feeding. There are no data on the presence of semaglutide in human milk, the effects on the breast-fed infant, or the effects on milk production. Semaglutide was present in the milk of lactating rats and was detected at levels 3- to 12- fold lower than in maternal rat plasma.[62656] [64637] [66713] Salcaprozate sodium (SNAC) (an absorption enhancer in oral semaglutide tablets) and/or its metabolites concentrated in the milk of lactating rats. There are no data on the presence of SNAC in human milk. Since the activity of UGT2B7, an enzyme involved in SNAC clearance, is lower in infants compared to adults, higher SNAC plasma levels may occur in neonates and infants. Because of the unknown potential for serious adverse reactions in the breastfed infant due to the possible accumulation of SNAC from breast-feeding and because semaglutide injection can be considered for use during lactation, advise patients that breast-feeding is not recommended during treatment with oral semaglutide tablets.[64637] If semaglutide is discontinued in an individual with type 2 diabetes mellitus and blood glucose is not controlled on diet and exercise alone, insulin therapy may be considered. Oral hypoglycemics may also be considered. Metformin monotherapy may be appropriate for some patients as available studies indicate low excretion in milk and that maternal use during breast-feeding is not expected to result in side effects to a healthy nursing infant. Some experts recommend using metformin with caution if the patient is breastfeeding a newborn or a premature neonate with reduced renal function.[31407] [31408] [31409] [32459] [70364] Because acarbose has limited systemic absorption, which results in minimal maternal plasma concentrations, clinically significant exposure via breast milk is not expected; therefore, this agent may be an alternative if postprandial glucose control is needed.[46303] Glyburide may be a suitable alternative since it was not detected in the breast milk of lactating women who received single and multiple doses of glyburide.[31568] If any oral hypoglycemics are used during breast-feeding, the nursing infant should be monitored for signs of hypoglycemia, such as increased fussiness or somnolence.[46104]
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