<p>Oral vs. Injectable Semaglutide: How are they different?</p>

Oral vs. Injectable Semaglutide: How are they different?

Oral vs. Injectable Semaglutide: How are they different?

Oral vs. Injectable Semaglutide: Key Differences


1. How They Work

  • Both versions activate GLP-1 receptors to reduce appetite, slow digestion, and improve insulin function.
  • Injectable semaglutide has a longer half-life, requiring once-weekly injections.
  • Oral semaglutide is taken daily and requires fasting before administration for proper absorption.


2. Effectiveness for Weight Loss

  • Injectable semaglutide led to up to 15% body weight loss in clinical trials.
  • Injections are generally more effective, as they provide steady drug levels in the body.


3. Convenience & Compliance

  • Oral semaglutide is a good option for those uncomfortable with injections but must be taken correctly (empty stomach, no food for 30 minutes).
  • Injectables require fewer doses (weekly vs. daily), leading to better compliance for some users.


4. Side Effects

  • Similar for both forms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite.
  • Oral semaglutide may cause more stomach irritation due to absorption in the gut.


5. Cost & Availability

  • Injectable versions are more commonly prescribed for weight loss.
  • Oral semaglutide is typically approved for diabetes.


Key Takeaways

  • Injectable semaglutide is more effective for weight loss, with better absorption and fewer dosing requirements.
  • Oral semaglutide is an option for those who prefer pills over injections but requires strict fasting rules.
  • Both options work, but injections lead to greater and more sustained weight loss.


Sources

  1. Singapore Ministry of Health, “Obesity and Diabetes Management Guidelines” https://www.researchgate.net/publication/305283787_Health_Promotion_Board-Ministry_of_Health_Clinical_Practice_Guidelines_Obesity
  2. The New England Journal of Medicine, “Efficacy of Oral vs. Injectable Semaglutide” https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038
  3. American Diabetes Association, “Pharmacological Treatments for Obesity” https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/39/Supplement_2/S260/30032/Pharmacological-Approaches-in-the-Treatment-and