Explore what is currently known about semaglutide nasal spray, an investigational therapy not approved by the FDA, and how it differs from approved GLP-1 treatments.
Please note that this article is not meant to be medical advice; please consult with a licensed healthcare provider to determine best practices for your health.
Semaglutide nasal spray is an experimental form of GLP-1 therapy that would aim to deliver semaglutide through the nasal passage rather than by injection or oral tablet.
The goal of experimental nasal spray formulations is to provide a needle-free delivery method; however, their effectiveness for weight management or blood sugar control has not been evaluated in human clinical trials.
Unlike FDA-approved injectable or oral GLP-1 medications, the nasal spray version has not been approved. This article simply discusses the possibility of this option.
Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medications may support weight management and blood sugar control by:
These effects have been studied in FDA-approved injectable GLP-1 therapies; their relevance to nasal delivery remains unknown due to a lack of human clinical data.
Currently, most GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic®, which is only approved for management of T2 diabetes and WeGovy®, which is approved for weight loss are administered as once-weekly injections. Oral options, such as Rybelsus®, are available but require specific timing for proper absorption.
A nasal spray version of semaglutide may offer several theoretical benefits, particularly for individuals who prefer to avoid injections:
All potential benefits listed are theoretical and have not been demonstrated in peer-reviewed human studies.
Semaglutide nasal spray remains in early-stage development, and available data come primarily from preclinical research involving animal models or laboratory testing.
One preclinical study by MetP Pharma AG suggested that its BrainDos™ delivery technology may support nasal-to-brain absorption. However, there are no published human clinical trials evaluating the safety or effectiveness of semaglutide nasal spray for weight management or blood sugar control.
Eden is not affiliated with MetP Pharma AG or any manufacturer of semaglutide nasal formulations. This article is simply to discuss the conversation around this experimental form of semaglutide.
By contrast, FDA-approved injectable GLP-1 medications have been studied in large-scale clinical trials and have shown meaningful reductions in weight and improvements in metabolic markers. These results apply only to the injectable or oral versions that have undergone FDA review.
There is currently no evidence to suggest that nasal semaglutide would produce comparable outcomes. Further research, including human clinical trials, is required to evaluate the safety, absorption, and effectiveness of nasal delivery methods.
FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonists, including injectable semaglutide, have known side effects such as nausea, bloating, and fatigue. However, semaglutide nasal spray has not been studied in humans, and its safety profile is unknown. In clinical studies of FDA-approved injectable GLP-1 medications, the most commonly reported side effects include:
Because semaglutide nasal spray has not been studied in human clinical trials, its specific safety profile remains unknown. Differences in how the medication is delivered and absorbed through the nasal passage may result in unique risks that are not yet well understood.
Individuals should speak with a licensed healthcare provider before using any investigational or unapproved semaglutide product.
Disclaimer: Nasal spray semaglutide is investigational and not approved by the FDA. The characteristics listed are based on preclinical findings and have not been evaluated in human clinical trials. Comparisons to FDA-approved products are for educational purposes only.
Semaglutide nasal spray is being explored as a potential needle-free method of GLP-1 delivery. However, there are key considerations:
For individuals exploring GLP-1 medications as part of a care plan, FDA-approved injectable options currently provide the most robust clinical evidence and regulatory oversight. Please consult with your licensed healthcare provider to determine whether GLP-1 medications are an option for your health.
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.
