GLP-1 is a peptide hormone secreted by intestinal L cells, which has various physiological effects, including promoting insulin secretion, inhibiting glucagon secretion, lowering blood sugar, and slowing down gastric emptying.

Semaglutide is a long-acting analogue of GLP-1 with similar biological activity, but with a longer duration of action. Semaglutide is a peptide composed of 31 amino acids, with a target chain in its sequence. Semaglutide is an agonist of GLP-1 receptors and can mimic the biological effects of GLP-1. Clinically, it is mainly used to treat type 2 diabetes and reduce blood sugar by promoting insulin secretion, inhibiting glucagon secretion and slowing gastric emptying.

Compared to other GLP-1 analogs, semaglutide has a longer half-life and more stable pharmacokinetic properties, allowing for a weekly dosing frequency.