Semaglutide: Benefits & Research
Part of the Semaglutide Complete Guide
Research Peptides
We may earn a commission if you purchase through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Weight Loss
Semaglutide produced unprecedented weight loss results in the STEP clinical trial program:
- STEP 1: 14.9% mean body weight loss vs 2.4% placebo over 68 weeks
- STEP 2: 9.6% in type 2 diabetes patients
- STEP 3: 16.0% combined with intensive behavioral therapy
These results established semaglutide as the most effective single-agent pharmaceutical for weight loss available at the time of approval.
Cardiovascular Benefits
The SELECT trial (2023) demonstrated that semaglutide 2.4 mg reduced major adverse cardiovascular events by 20% in overweight/obese adults without diabetes. This was the first trial to show cardiovascular benefit from a weight loss medication in non-diabetic patients. The SUSTAIN-6 trial had previously shown 26% MACE reduction in type 2 diabetes.
Glucose Control
Semaglutide reduces HbA1c by 1.5–1.8% in type 2 diabetes — among the most effective glucose-lowering agents available. The glucose-dependent insulin secretion mechanism minimizes hypoglycemia risk compared to sulfonylureas or insulin.
Liver Fat Reduction
Studies show semaglutide reduces hepatic steatosis (liver fat) by 30–50%. Phase 2 results in MASH showed histological improvement, leading to Phase 3 trials for this indication. The liver benefits are attributed to both weight loss and direct GLP-1R-mediated effects on hepatic metabolism.