Semaglutide: What It Is, How It Works, and What You Need to Know

When you hear semaglutide, a once-weekly injectable medication originally developed for type 2 diabetes that also triggers significant weight loss. Also known as Ozempic or Wegovy, it works by mimicking a natural hormone called GLP-1 that tells your brain you’re full and slows down digestion. This isn’t just another diet pill—it’s a medically proven tool that’s changed how doctors treat obesity and diabetes.

It’s not magic, but it’s close. People using semaglutide often lose 15% to 20% of their body weight over a year—not from starving, but from naturally eating less because hunger pangs fade. The same hormone boost helps the pancreas release insulin only when needed, which stabilizes blood sugar. That’s why it’s used for both type 2 diabetes, a condition where the body can’t manage blood sugar properly and obesity, a chronic disease linked to insulin resistance and metabolic imbalance. It doesn’t burn fat directly—it resets your body’s signals so fat loss becomes easier.

But it’s not for everyone. If you have a personal or family history of thyroid cancer, especially medullary thyroid carcinoma, you’re not a candidate. People with pancreatitis, severe gut problems, or certain rare conditions should also avoid it. And while it’s prescribed for weight loss, it’s not a quick fix. You still need to eat better and move more. The drug doesn’t replace lifestyle—it makes it possible.

Cost is a real concern. At Walmart and other pharmacies, prices vary wildly depending on insurance, coupons, and whether you’re using it for diabetes or weight loss. Some pay under $50 a month with discounts. Others pay over $1,000 without coverage. That’s why knowing where to buy it, how to compare prices, and what alternatives exist matters just as much as understanding how it works.

It’s also not the only option. GLP-1 agonist, a class of drugs that includes semaglutide and similar medications like liraglutide and tirzepatide is growing fast. But semaglutide stands out because of its strong results and once-a-week dosing. It’s become the benchmark others are measured against.

What you’ll find here aren’t ads or sponsored posts. These are real questions people ask: How much does semaglutide cost at Walmart? Can you get it without a prescription? Is it safe long-term? How does it compare to metformin or Ozempic? We’ve gathered the most helpful, honest answers from posts written by people who’ve used it, doctors who prescribe it, and pharmacists who handle it every day. No fluff. Just what you need to decide if it’s right for you.