Semaglutide is an example of which class of medications?

• A. SGLT2 inhibitor
• B. GLP-1 receptor agonist
• C. DPP-4 inhibitor
• D. Insulin analog

Answer: (B)

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It acts like the incretin hormone GLP-1 by binding to GLP-1 receptors, mainly in the pancreas, to boost insulin release in a glucose-dependent way and to suppress glucagon when blood glucose is elevated. It also slows gastric emptying and reduces appetite, contributing to improved glycemic control and potential weight loss. The long-acting nature of semaglutide allows once-weekly dosing (with an oral form available as well). This distinguishes it from other classes: SGLT2 inhibitors reduce glucose reabsorption in the kidney, DPP-4 inhibitors prevent breakdown of endogenous GLP-1, and insulin analogs are exogenous insulin replacing or supplementing endogenous insulin.