Where can I find the primary clinical evidence?

Primary trials are published in peer-reviewed journals (NEJM, JAMA, Lancet) with PubMed PMIDs cited throughout US Telehealth Review.

Mechanism of Action — How Semaglutide Works

Mechanism of Action

Semaglutide selectively activates the GLP-1 receptor: glucose-dependent insulin secretion, glucagon suppression, slowed gastric emptying, reduced caloric intake. Half-life ~7 days.

Clinical referenceUpdated 2026-05-08

Editorial team

Dr. Sam Saberian · Lead Medical Researcher

Medical review by Alen A. Schwartz, MD · Edited by Julliana Edwards · Last updated 2026-05-11

Overview

Semaglutide selectively activates the GLP-1 receptor: glucose-dependent insulin secretion, glucagon suppression, slowed gastric emptying, reduced caloric intake. Half-life ~7 days.

Related clinical pages

STEP trial results
SELECT trial results
FLOW trial results
Mechanism of action
Dosing & pharmacology
Contraindications
Side effects