What are the Ingredients in Semaglutide?

Learn about the active and inactive semaglutide ingredients, how they work, and what patients should know about safety, side effects, and treatment access.

Key takeaways
  • The active ingredient in all semaglutide products is a GLP-1 analog, engineered for stability and extended action.
  • Inactive ingredients (excipients) vary by formulation and aid absorption, preservation, or delivery.
  • SNAC, used in oral semaglutide (Rybelsus®), helps semaglutide absorb through the stomach lining.

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What Is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, i.e. it is a synthetic peptide that mimics the hormone GLP-1, to:

  • Stimulate insulin secretion
  • Suppress glucagon (which raises blood sugar)
  • Slow gastric emptying, enhancing satiety
  • Reduce appetite and food intake

These effects support metabolic control in patients with type 2 diabetes or obesity.

Active Ingredient in Semaglutide

The active molecule is a modified 31-amino acid GLP-1 analog:

  • Resists enzymatic degradation (DPP-4 enzyme)
  • Binds to albumin, extending half-life to ~1 week
  • Supports once-weekly dosing (injectables) or daily (oral)

Its chemical structure enables prolonged bioactivity and clinical stability in both forms.

Inactive Ingredients by Formulation

Wegovy® (Injectable)

  • Active: Semaglutide
  • Inactive: Disodium phosphate dihydrate, sodium chloride, water for injection
  • pH-adjusted using hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide

Ozempic® (Injectable)

  • Active: Semaglutide
  • Inactive: Disodium phosphate dihydrate, phenol (preservative), propylene glycol, water for injection

Rybelsus® (Oral)

  • Active: Semaglutide
  • Inactive: SNAC (salcaprozate sodium), magnesium stearate, povidone, microcrystalline cellulose

SNAC is crucial here as it enhances semaglutide’s absorption through the gastric lining by modifying pH and membrane permeability.

How Ingredients Work Together

  • Semaglutide activates GLP-1 receptors to control appetite and glucose.
  • Preservatives and pH agents ensure injectable stability and safety.
  • SNAC in Rybelsus protects semaglutide from stomach acid and improves uptake.

Each excipient is precisely formulated to enable effective, predictable absorption.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the ingredients in semaglutide, both active and inactive, can help patients feel more informed and confident in their treatment.

Whether in injectable or oral form, semaglutide is carefully engineered for efficacy, safety, and tolerability under clinical supervision. With expert support and lifestyle alignment, it offers transformative potential for people managing diabetes, obesity, or cardiometabolic risk.

Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Eden does not manufacture medications. All prescribing is handled by independent, licensed medical providers. Eligibility for prescription is dependent on a medical assessment and not guaranteed.

Disclaimer: The FDA does not approve compounded medications for safety, quality, or manufacturing. Prescriptions and a medical evaluation are required for certain products. The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not be relied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blog is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns, including side effects. Use of this blog's information is at your own risk. The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided in this blog.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the active ingredient in semaglutide?

A GLP-1 analog peptide designed for long action and metabolic control.

What’s SNAC and why is it in Rybelsus?

SNAC enhances absorption of semaglutide in the stomach, enabling oral delivery.

Are there preservatives in injections?

Yes, Ozempic includes phenol to prevent microbial contamination.

Is semaglutide natural or synthetic?

It’s a synthetic analog of the natural GLP-1 hormone.

Can people be allergic to semaglutide ingredients?

Allergic reactions are rare. Consult your provider about any sensitivities.

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References