Semaglutide

What it is

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection.

It is FDA-approved for chronic weight management (Wegovy) and for type 2 diabetes (Ozempic).

How it works

GLP-1 receptor agonists slow gastric emptying, increase satiety, and reduce food noise — the constant background drive to eat.

In menopause, where metabolic rate drops and body composition shifts toward central adiposity, GLP-1 medications are a meaningful tool — but they work best paired with strength training, protein-forward nutrition, and HRT when appropriate.

Who it's for

• BMI ≥30, or BMI ≥27 with weight-related comorbidity
• Patients committed to lifestyle changes (medication is an amplifier, not a substitute)
• Patients who can adhere to weekly injections and follow-up

Who should not take it

• Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
• Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2
• Pregnancy or planned pregnancy
• History of pancreatitis (relative contraindication)

Common side effects

• Nausea, especially during dose titration
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Reflux
• Rarely: pancreatitis, gallbladder issues

Evidence summary

• STEP trials demonstrated mean weight loss of 14-15% body weight at 68 weeks with semaglutide 2.4 mg weekly.

FAQ

Sources

• U.S. Food & Drug Administration
• STEP 1 Trial — NEJM 2021

Symptoms Semaglutide can help treat

Other medications

This page is educational and is not a substitute for a clinical evaluation. Whether any medication is appropriate for you depends on your full medical history. Kindr providers make individualized prescribing decisions during a clinical visit.