Often referred to by one of its brand names—Ozempic®—semaglutide has quickly become one of the most talked-about medications in the weight-loss community. If you’ve ever wondered how this medication works or if you can get it without insurance, let this blog be your guide.

What is semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 agonist originally developed to help manage type 2 diabetes, but is now widely prescribed for weight management. It supports glucose-dependent insulin release, suppresses glucagon, and slows stomach emptying, all of which have implications for weight loss. 

Semaglutide is sold under brand names Ozempic® and Wegovy®. 

How semaglutide works

Semaglutide works by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone your body naturally produces after eating. GLP-1 plays several key roles in regulating appetite, blood sugar, and digestion.

Here’s what this means in practice:

• Improved blood sugar control: Semaglutide helps the pancreas release more insulin when blood sugar levels are high and reduces the amount of glucose made by the liver.
• Slowed digestion: By slowing down digestion, semaglutide helps you feel fuller for longer. 
• Reduced appetite: Semaglutide acts on the brain’s appetite centers, making it easier to eat less and make healthier choices. And those cravings that have ruled your life? Many people report that those fade, too.

All of this adds up to lower blood sugar levels, improved insulin sensitivity, and—for many—significant weight loss. 

Important note: Semaglutide is meant to be a tool to help you with your weight-loss efforts, but should not replace a healthy diet and regular exercise. Those who establish healthy habits while taking semaglutide typically see the best results and experience fewer side effects.

Approved uses of semaglutide

Semaglutide is FDA-approved for diabetes and weight-loss treatment, but the brand you use will differ depending on what you need the medication for and your doctor’s recommendation.

• Ozempic®: Approved for treatment of type 2 diabetes. If deemed medically necessary, it can be prescribed for weight loss as an “off label” use, which is why the term “ozempic” has become a generic term for GLP-1 medications.
• Wegovy®: The only semaglutide medication approved specifically for weight management. Adults who have obesity or those who are overweight and have at least one weight-related condition (such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes) meet the baseline requirements to qualify for a Wegovy® prescription.

All GLP-1 medications, regardless of type, must be prescribed by a licensed provider, which is prescribed only after a consultation to determine appropriateness.* 

Benefits of semaglutide

Semaglutide is more than just hype. It has substantial clinical data and real-world results to back it up, helping many people lose weight when other methods failed.

Let’s break down what that means for you:

• Improves glycemic control: When your body is able to use glucose effectively, many other areas of metabolic health can improve as well.
• Supports normal, healthy blood sugar levels: This means steadier energy, smaller blood sugar spikes, and fewer cravings.
• Supports weight-loss efforts: When combined with a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise, patients can lose a significant amount of weight, even if they weren’t able to lose weight through other methods. In clinical trials, participants who took semaglutide lost up to 15% of their body weight, though results varied based on adherence, dosage, and support.
• Slows digestion: Feel fuller for longer, and eat less without having to rely on willpower!
• Can help reduce appetite and cravings: Many have been able to take back control over their cravings and quiet the food noise, freeing them up to focus on other things—and spend less money on high-calorie meals and snacks.
• Convenient dosing: Most medications require daily usage, but injectables for weight loss only need to be administered once a week.

While approved to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity specifically, semaglutide supports whole-body health. Improving blood sugar control and losing weight has a ripple effect on the rest of your life, allowing you to more easily live the kind of life you want.

Possible side effects of semaglutide

Like all medications, semaglutide has potential risks and side effects. The most common are gastrointestinal, particularly when first starting treatment.

Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Indigestion
• Decreased appetite
• Fatigue
• Headache 

Side effects are typically dose related, and tend to ease with time as your body adjusts to the medication. You can manage semaglutide side effects by staying hydrated, avoiding ultra-processed foods, and moderating alcohol intake.

Rare but serious complications can include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and elevations in kidney function tests. Patients should promptly report severe abdominal pain, jaundice, significant changes in urination, or swelling to their healthcare provider. 

Who should avoid semaglutide 

If any of the following scenarios apply to you, semaglutide treatment is not recommended:

• People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma and multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 should not take semaglutide. 
• Delayed gastric emptying can alter absorption of some oral medications with a narrow therapeutic window. If you’re taking anything that is sensitive to timing, check with your provider before starting semaglutide treatment. 
• The risk of low blood sugar rises when semaglutide is combined with insulin or sulfonylurea, which can be an issue for those being treated for diabetes.
• Semaglutide treatment should be stopped well before a planned pregnancy and is not recommended during pregnancy or while nursing.

Your doctor will walk through your medical history and goals with you to help you find the best treatment plan that works for you.

How to order semaglutide online with no insurance

The benefits of semaglutide are fairly straightforward, but figuring out how much it’ll cost? Not so simple.

Shed takes the guesswork out of the equation with upfront pricing and a simple ordering process, even if you don’t have insurance. To start the process, all you have to do is fill out a quick form on tryshed.com. Once you’ve filled out your health goals and medical history, a licensed provider will assess your eligibility and, if deemed medically necessary, will craft a personalized treatment plan just for you.

You can then place your order directly on Shed’s website and your medication will be delivered right to your doorstep. It really is that simple!

How much does Compounded Semaglutide cost?

Shed’s Compounded Semaglutide starts at $199/month. Your dosage will gradually increase until you reach your maintenance dose. At that point, you will pay $249/month for Compounded Semaglutide for the remainder of the time you’re on the medication.

Semaglutide is also FSA/HSA eligible, so if you have an FSA or HSA account, be sure to use those dollars first!

Compounded semaglutide dosage

GLP-1 dosing varies based on individual needs and provider recommendations. The schedule below is just an example; your doctor will recommend the best dosing schedule and amount for you. All injections are self-administered once a week.

• Weeks 1–4: 0.25 mg
• Weeks 5–8: 0.5 mg
• Weeks 9–12: 1 mg
• Weeks 13–16: 1.7 mg
• Weeks 17 on (maintenance dose): 1.7–2.4 mg, depending on response and tolerability

Some patients will spend longer than four weeks on a dose before increasing their dose. The general guideline is to start low, advance gradually, and hold at the dose that achieves goals with manageable effects—and that will look a little bit different for everyone.*

Find out if semaglutide is right for you

Semaglutide is one of the most exciting developments in the world of metabolic health, helping many people shed stubborn pounds and take back control over how they live their lives. If you’re curious about whether semaglutide is right for you, talk to your doctor to go over your options or visit tryshed.com to learn more.

FAQs about semaglutide

Is semaglutide the same as Zepbound® or Mounjaro®?

No. While all three medications are incretin-based therapies, Zepbound® and Mounjaro® feature a different active ingredient (tirzepatide). In addition, tirzepatide activates GIP receptors in addition to GLP-1, giving it a dual mechanism of action that semaglutide doesn’t have. 

How long does it take for semaglutide to start working?

Many patients notice improvements in blood sugar and appetite within the first few weeks. Weight loss typically builds over several months, with the most significant results seen after consistent use for 6–12 months, when paired with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Will I regain weight after stopping semaglutide?

Weight gain is common after stopping any GLP-1 medication. However, those who establish healthy habits, i.e., a balanced, nutritious diet and regular exercise regimen, are better able to keep the weight off after ending GLP-1 treatment. 

Is semaglutide covered by insurance?

Coverage depends on your diagnosis and insurance plan. Shed provides affordable pricing without insurance, starting at $199 per month.

Can semaglutide replace diet and exercise?

No. Semaglutide should be part of a holistic health plan that includes balanced nutrition and consistent exercise. Those who establish healthy habits while on a GLP-1 are more likely to see optimal results.

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*Results for compounded medications may vary. Medication is prescribed only after consultation with a licensed provider to determine appropriateness. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. They are prepared by a licensed pharmacy based on a provider’s prescription.

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This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication.