Medicine

Fagene Injectable Semaglutide Pen

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Drug Class: GLP-1 Receptor Agonist (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Agonist) 

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Indications: 

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• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus 

• Obesity (as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity) 

• Cardiovascular Risk Reduction (in individuals with Type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease) 

 

Mechanism of Action:

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Fagene is a synthetic analogue of GLP-1, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and appetite. It works through the following actions: 

• Stimulates insulin secretion in response to food intake. 

• Inhibits glucagon secretion, reducing glucose production by the liver. 

• Slows gastric emptying, which helps reduce appetite and food consumption. 

• Enhances satiety by influencing brain centers that control hunger. 

 

Formulation Available: 

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Fagene Injectable Semaglutide Pen: 

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- Strengths: 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg (administered once weekly via subcutaneous injection) 

- Indications: Type 2 diabetes management, reducing cardiovascular risk, obesity treatment (as part of a weight management program)

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High-Dose Fagene Semaglutide Pen (HDFS): 

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- Strength: 2.4 mg (administered once weekly via subcutaneous injection) 

- Indication: Obesity treatment (as part of a comprehensive weight management plan, including diet and exercise) 

 

Dosage and Administration: 

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• Initial Dose: 0.25 mg once weekly for 4 weeks, then increase to 0.5 mg weekly. 

• After 4 Weeks: The dose may be increased to 1 mg weekly; higher doses (up to 2 mg) can be prescribed for those needing additional weight loss or blood sugar control. 

• Injection: Administer once weekly via subcutaneous injection in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm using the pre-filled Fagene pen. Rotate injection sites to avoid irritation. 

 

Pharmacokinetics: 

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• Absorption: Semaglutide is well absorbed, with peak plasma concentrations occurring 1 to 3 days after administration. 

• Half-Life: Approximately 1 week, allowing for once-weekly dosing. 

• Metabolism: Proteolytic degradation similar to the natural GLP-1 hormone. 

• Excretion: Primarily excreted via urine, with some elimination through the feces. 

 

Side Effects: 

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Common: 

• Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain) 

• Hypoglycemia (especially with other antidiabetic medications) 

• Dehydration due to gastrointestinal symptoms 

• Headache, fatigue 

Serious: 

• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) 

• Thyroid C-cell tumors (observed in animal studies; caution in individuals with a history of thyroid cancer or MEN 2) 

• Kidney issues, including renal impairment or failure 

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, or anaphylaxis) 

 

Contraindications: 

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• History of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2) 

• History of pancreatitis 

• Severe gastrointestinal disorders 

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding (not recommended; Category C in pregnancy) 

• Hypersensitivity to Semaglutide or any of its components 

 

Drug Interactions: 

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• Insulin or Sulfonylureas: Increased risk of hypoglycemia. Dose adjustments may be necessary

• Oral contraceptives or thyroid medications: Absorption may be altered due to gastrointestinal effects 

• Other antidiabetic agents: Caution is advised when combined. Monitor blood glucose closely

 

Precautions: 

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• Kidney Function: Monitor renal function, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions. Discontinue if renal impairment occurs 

• Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Gradually titrate doses to minimize nausea and vomiting 

• Diabetic Retinopathy: Worsening may occur in individuals with poorly controlled diabetes

 

Storage: 

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• Store in the refrigerator (36°F to 46°F / 2°C to 8°C). 

• Do not freeze. Once in use, can be kept at room temperature (up to 86°F / 30°C) for up to 28 days. 

 

Clinical Benefits: 

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• Blood Sugar Control: Significantly lowers HbA1c levels in individuals with Type 2 diabetes

• Weight Loss: Substantial weight reduction in individuals with obesity or overweight, regardless of diabetes status

• Cardiovascular Health: Reduces the risk of major cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke) in individuals with Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease

 

High-Dose Fagene Semaglutide (HDFS) - Additional Benefits 

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High-Dose Fagene Semaglutide Pen (HDFS) offers more than just weight loss; it provides a comprehensive set of health benefits. Beyond weight management, HDFS has demonstrated the following benefits: 

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1- Improved Cardiovascular Health: 

    Reduces the risk of major cardiovascular events, including: 

• Heart attack 

• Stroke 

• Hospitalization for heart failure 

• Cardiovascular death 

 

Clinical trials show significant reduction in cardiovascular events, especially in individuals with a history of heart disease or those at high risk. 

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2- Reduction in Liver Fat and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): 

• Reduces liver fat content 

• Improves liver enzymes (ALT, AST) 

• Potentially reverses NAFLD in obese individuals 

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3-Improved Blood Pressure: 

Reduces both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, especially in individuals with prehypertension or hypertension, due to weight loss and metabolic improvements

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4- Better Control of Blood Glucose: 

Secondary benefits for Type 2 diabetes: 

• Improved insulin sensitivity 

• Lower HbA1c levels 

• Potential reduction in insulin dependency 

 

5- Improved Mental Health and Quality of Life: 

• Reduces depressive symptoms 

• Enhances body image and self-esteem 

• Improves sleep quality, particularly in individuals with sleep apnea 

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6- Joint Health Improvements: 

Reduces stress on weight-bearing joints: 

Reduces joint pain 

Improves mobility 

Potential reduction in the risk of osteoarthritis 

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7- Decreased Risk of Certain Cancers: 

May reduce the risk of obesity-related cancers, including: 

• Colorectal cancer 

• Breast cancer 

• Endometrial cancer 

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8- Reduction in Obesity-Related Comorbidities: 

Helps alleviate conditions commonly associated with obesity, such as: 

• Type 2 diabetes 

• Hypertension 

• Sleep apnea 

• Hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol) 

 

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