Semaglutide

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) receptor agonist. In research, it is primarily studied for its ability to mimic a natural hormone that targets areas of the brain that regulate appetite and food intake.

Its primary functions are slowing gastric emptying (making you feel full longer) and signaling the pancreas to release insulin only when blood sugar is high.
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1. Reconstitution & Dosage
Semaglutide typically comes in 2mg or 5mg lyophilized vials. Because the dosage is so small (measured in micrograms), precise reconstitution is vital.

• Reconstitution: Add 2ml of Bacteriostatic Water to a 5mg vial.
• The Concentration: This creates 2.5mg (2,500mcg) per 1ml.
• Syringe Measurement (U-100 Insulin Syringe):
o 10 units (0.10ml) = 250mcg (0.25mg)
o 20 units (0.20ml) = 500mcg (0.50mg)
o 40 units (0.40ml) = 1,000mcg (1.0mg)
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2. The Titration Protocol (The Slow Climb)
The most critical aspect of Semaglutide is titration. The body needs time to adjust to the slowed digestion to avoid severe gastrointestinal distress.

Weeks Dosage Frequency
Weeks 1–4 250mcg (0.25mg) Once Weekly
Weeks 5–8 500mcg (0.50mg) Once Weekly
Weeks 9–12 1,000mcg (1.0mg) Once Weekly
Weeks 13+ 1.7mg to 2.4mg Once Weekly (Maintenance)

Note: Many researchers stay at the lowest effective dose. If 0.25mg is providing significant appetite suppression, there is often no need to increase the dose to 0.50mg.
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3. Administration & Timing
• Subcutaneous (SubQ): Injected into the stomach fat, thigh, or back of the arm.
• Timing: Administered once per week on the same day each week. It can be taken with or without food.
• Rotation: Essential to rotate injection sites to avoid skin irritation.
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4. Potential Side Effects
• Nausea & Vomiting: The most common side effect, usually occurring 1–2 days after the injection.
• Constipation: Due to slowed gastric emptying. Increased fiber and water intake are mandatory.
• Sulfur Burps: A distinct "rotten egg" taste caused by food sitting in the stomach longer.
• Hypoglycemia: Rare unless combined with other glucose-lowering medications.
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5. Important Research Safety
• Pancreatitis: Researchers monitor for severe abdominal pain that radiates to the back.
• Muscle Loss: Because weight loss is rapid, a high-protein diet and resistance training are required to prevent significant muscle wasting (often called "Ozempic Face" or "Ozempic Body").
• Hydration: Electrolytes are critical, as the suppressed thirst signal can lead to dehydration.
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Quick Checklist for a 5mg Vial:
• At the Starter Dose (0.25mg): One vial lasts 20 weeks (though it should be discarded 30–60 days after mixing).
• Storage: Must be refrigerated at all times after reconstitution.
• Supplies: 31g Insulin syringes.