Semaglutide vs Exenatide
A long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist engineered for once-weekly dosing. A GLP-1 receptor agonist derived from Gila monster venom (exendin-4). Side by side: type, evidence tier, receptor, molecular weight, and half-life — the same fields as each monograph, rearranged so the engineering difference is visible.
Semaglutide | Exenatide | |
|---|---|---|
| Also known as | Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus | Byetta, Bydureon |
| Type | Analog | Analog |
| Evidence | Established | Established |
| Family | Incretins & metabolic | Incretins & metabolic |
| Class | GLP-1 receptor agonist (acylated peptide, 31 aa) | GLP-1 receptor agonist (exendin-4, 39 aa) |
| Receptor | GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) | GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) |
| Molecular weight | ~4,113.6 Da | ~4,186.6 Da |
| Half-life | ||
| Based on | Glucagon-like peptide-1 | Glucagon-like peptide-1 |
Half-life bars are on a logarithmic scale across the molecules shown. Reference values for the native or representative form — educational only, not medical or dosing advice.
Common questions
- What is the difference between Semaglutide and Exenatide?
- Semaglutide is an engineered analog based on Glucagon-like peptide-1; Exenatide is an engineered analog based on Glucagon-like peptide-1. Semaglutide signals at GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R); Exenatide signals at GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R).
- How do the half-lives of Semaglutide and Exenatide compare?
- The reported circulating half-life of Semaglutide is ~7 days (~165 h); Exenatide is ~2.4 h (immediate-release). These are reference values for the native or representative form — educational only, not dosing advice.
- Is Semaglutide the same as Ozempic?
- Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus are brand names of Semaglutide. This comparison describes the molecules, not branded products.
Prefer the other order? Exenatide vs Semaglutide. Or open the interactive comparison tool to add more molecules.