Written by Biotic Artlab
Jul 30, 2026

Ozempic / Semaglutide

Overview

Semaglutide, sold under the brand name Ozempic for type 2 diabetes, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, a class of medication that mimics a natural gut hormone involved in regulating blood sugar and appetite. It was first approved by the FDA in 2017 to help adults with type 2 diabetes manage blood glucose alongside diet and exercise.1

How It Works

Semaglutide closely resembles the body’s natural GLP-1 hormone but lasts far longer, allowing once weekly dosing. It increases insulin release, lowers glucagon levels, and acts on appetite regulating centers in the brain, which slows digestion and reduces hunger.2

Uses Beyond Diabetes

Because of its effect on appetite, semaglutide is also used for weight management, and it has been shown to lower the risk of heart attack and stroke in people with excess weight. It’s also used to treat liver disease caused by fat buildup in the liver.1

Side Effects

The most common side effects are gastrointestinal, particularly nausea, which tends to occur most often after a dose increase. Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation have also been reported, along with less common risks such as pancreas inflammation.1

Why Visual Communication Matters for Semaglutide

Explaining how a single molecule can influence blood sugar, appetite, and digestion at the same time is a lot to communicate through text alone. Illustrations that walk through the GLP-1 mechanism step by step make it far easier for patients and sales teams to understand why the medication works the way it does.

How We Support Semaglutide Communication

We help with:

  • Illustrations explaining GLP-1 receptor mechanisms and hormone signaling
  • Visuals showing the medication’s effects on blood sugar, appetite, and weight
  • Patient education content on dosing, benefits, and side effects
  • Sales and training materials for pharmaceutical companies

Have a Project in Mind?

Whether you’re explaining GLP-1 mechanisms, developing patient education materials, or presenting clinical research, we create visuals that make complex science easier to understand.
Contact us at info@biotic-artlab.com or reach out through our contact page to discuss your next semaglutide communication project.

References

  1. Semaglutide (Wegovy): How It Works & Side Effects. Cleveland Clinic. Available here.
  2. Effects of Semaglutide on Glycemic Control and Body Weight in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes. NCBI. Available here.