Forma Medical WellnessSemaglutide safety
A once-weekly GLP-1 medication used for long-term weight management. Review who it's for, who shouldn't take it, and what to watch for — then start your intake to see if it's right for you.
Semaglutide
semaglutide · GLP-1 receptor agonistOnce-weekly subcutaneous injection or daily oral tablet
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It mimics a hormone your gut releases after eating — slowing how quickly your stomach empties, reducing appetite, and helping regulate blood sugar, so you feel full sooner and longer.
Thyroid C-cell tumors: In rodent studies, semaglutide caused thyroid tumors, including cancer. It is unknown whether it causes these tumors in humans. Do not use if you or a family member has ever had medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
What it treats
- Long-term weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥ 30), alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity
- Weight management in adults who are overweight (BMI ≥ 27) and have at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol
- Improving blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes
Who shouldn't take it
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- Prior serious allergic reaction to semaglutide or any of its ingredients
- Pregnancy or planning to become pregnant
Warnings & precautions
- Pancreatitis — stop use and seek care for severe, persistent abdominal pain
- Gallbladder problems, including gallstones
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially if combined with insulin or a sulfonylurea
- Dehydration and acute kidney injury from nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Possible worsening of diabetic retinopathy
- Serious allergic reactions
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
Call your clinician if you notice
- Signs of a thyroid tumor (a lump or swelling in the neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing)
- Severe stomach pain that won't go away (possible pancreatitis)
- Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction (swelling, trouble breathing)
Ready to see if this fits you?
Start Your IntakeThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. A licensed Forma clinician will review your health history and current medications to determine whether treatment is safe and appropriate for you. Never start, stop, or change a prescription without talking to a healthcare provider. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911.