What is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide (Semaglutide) belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It mimics the GLP-1 hormone released by the gastrointestinal tract in response to eating. One function of GLP-1 is to cause the body to produce more insulin, which lowers blood sugar. Higher levels of GLP-1 also interact with parts of the brain that reduce appetite and signal satiety.

There are currently three U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved semaglutide products on the market, and there is no approved generic version and is only available through physician prescribing information. In addition to diet and exercise, semaglutide injection (Ozempic) and semaglutide tablets (Rybelsus) are approved to lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. Semaglutide injection is also approved to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death in adults with type 2 diabetes and known heart disease. In addition to diet and exercise, subcutaneous semaglutide (Wegovy) is approved to help adults and children 12 years and older with obesity or some overweight (overweight) adults who also have weight-related medical problems lose and maintain weight.

Semaglutide tablets have not yet been launched in China. Its injection has been launched in China and is covered by medical insurance, but only eligible patients can be reimbursed.The price of each 3ml tube may be around RMB 1,000. The original drug Semaglutide tablets sold overseas, with a specification of 3 mg*100 tablets, may cost around 2,000 yuan per box (the price may fluctuate due to exchange rates). There are currently no generic versions of semaglutide on the market.