Which class of medication does Ozempic (semaglutide) belong to?

Study for the Foundation Year Pharmacy – Clinical Practice Test. Prepare with detailed questions, step-by-step explanations, and test format insights. Enhance your readiness and confidence!

Multiple Choice

Which class of medication does Ozempic (semaglutide) belong to?

Explanation:
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, an incretin mimetic. It acts by activating GLP-1 receptors, which enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion from the pancreas, suppresses inappropriate glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, and promotes satiety. This combination lowers blood glucose with a lower risk of hypoglycemia and often aids in weight loss. It differs from DPP-4 inhibitors, which only increase endogenous GLP-1 levels by blocking its degradation, rather than directly stimulating the receptor. It also differs from SGLT2 inhibitors, which reduce glucose reabsorption in the kidneys, and from insulin, which is a peptide hormone replacement. So Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist.

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, an incretin mimetic. It acts by activating GLP-1 receptors, which enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion from the pancreas, suppresses inappropriate glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, and promotes satiety. This combination lowers blood glucose with a lower risk of hypoglycemia and often aids in weight loss. It differs from DPP-4 inhibitors, which only increase endogenous GLP-1 levels by blocking its degradation, rather than directly stimulating the receptor. It also differs from SGLT2 inhibitors, which reduce glucose reabsorption in the kidneys, and from insulin, which is a peptide hormone replacement. So Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist.

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