Last reviewed · How we verify
Ozempic® — mechanism of action
Ozempic activates GLP-1 receptors to increase insulin secretion, slow gastric emptying, and reduce appetite, thereby lowering blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes.
How ozempic works
Ozempic activates GLP-1 receptors to increase insulin secretion, slow gastric emptying, and reduce appetite, thereby lowering blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes.
Detailed mechanism
Ozempic (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone that regulates blood sugar. It stimulates pancreatic beta cells to release insulin in response to elevated glucose, delays stomach emptying to reduce postprandial glucose spikes, and acts on the brain to suppress appetite and food intake. These combined effects improve glycemic control and promote weight loss.
| Molecular target | GLP-1R (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor) |
|---|---|
| Drug class | GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Modality | Small molecule |
See also
- Full profile: Ozempic®
- Side effects: /side-effects
- Dosage & administration: /dosage
- Cost & pricing: /cost
- Drug interactions: /interactions
- Clinical trials: /clinical-trials
- Patents & exclusivity: /patents
Primary sources · FDA · ClinicalTrials.gov · EMA · SEC EDGAR · ChEMBL · Wikidata · full sourcing