GLP-1 Sema is a medication that mimics the natural hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) to regulate appetite and blood sugar, primarily for managing type 2 diabetes and promoting weight loss.
Sema works by acting on GLP-1 receptors in the body, primarily in the pancreas, gut, and brain. Its key actions include:
- Increasing Insulin Secretion: It tells the pancreas to release more insulin when blood sugar levels are high, which helps move glucose out of the bloodstream and into cells for energy.
- Suppressing Glucagon Release: It reduces the amount of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar, produced by the liver.
- Slowing Digestion: It delays gastric emptying, meaning food stays in the stomach longer. This prevents rapid spikes in blood sugar after meals and increases feelings of fullness (satiety).
- Regulating Appetite: It interacts with areas of the brain (the hypothalamus and brainstem) that control hunger and satiety, reducing cravings and overall food intake.