The quest for a safe and efficient weight loss solution seems endless. However, semaglutide, the latest anti-obesity medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2021, continues to generate buzz 3 years later. This article reveals all you need to know about semaglutide for weight loss. So, let’s get started.
If you’re one of the 4 in 10 Americans affected by obesity, you probably know that losing weight can be extremely tough since it typically involves making difficult choices about what to eat and getting into the habit of exercising regularly. Even when people try their best, traditional methods like dieting often don't work as well as they hope. This is why finding new and effective ways to address chronic weight loss management is so important. One promising option that's been getting a lot of media attention is a medication called semaglutide.
First introduced as an injectable drug designed to treat type 2 diabetes, semaglutide has steadily grown in popularity as a weight-loss aid for those who are classified as obese. Among the three variations of the drug, only Wegovy has obtained FDA approval for integration into a weight loss plan alongside a balanced diet and exercise.
Semaglutide is classified as a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA), a type of medication mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which is released in response to food intake.
While primarily used for over 15 years to manage type 2 diabetes by prompting insulin production and lowering blood sugar, GLP-1 also plays a role in appetite suppression and promoting feelings of fullness.
When combined with dietary changes and physical activity, semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss, reducing the risk of obesity-related conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
Numerous anti-obesity medications have been developed to curb appetite and facilitate weight loss. However, semaglutide operates at an advanced level compared to its predecessors.
One study involving 2,000 obese adults examined the effects of semaglutide combined with diet and exercise compared to lifestyle changes alone. Over 68 weeks, half of those using semaglutide lost 15% of their body weight, with nearly a third losing 20%. Conversely, participants solely relying on lifestyle changes lost approximately 2.4% of their weight. Subsequent studies reiterated these findings, yet also highlighted weight regain once semaglutide was stopped.
While dietary changes and exercise will always be the fundamentals of obesity management, semaglutide is a powerful weapon to have in your arsenal, depending on an individual’s clinical history.
Numerous studies have highlighted semaglutide's effectiveness, particularly for individuals who are overweight or suffer from additional health conditions due to obesity. By mimicking ghrelin and leptin, hormones that regulate appetite, semaglutide tricks the brain into feeling full. This reduces appetite and the urge to eat. Pairing semaglutide with exercise and a balanced diet facilitates weight loss, as consuming fewer calories becomes easier. Optimal results are achieved when semaglutide is complemented by regular physical activity and healthy eating habits.
Semaglutide is administered through subcutaneous injections once a week. Patients have the option to receive injections from a healthcare provider or self-administer them at home, which can save both time and money.
FDA-approved Wegovy is available in various dosage strengths, including 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, and 2.4 mg. Treatment plans are individualized, typically starting with a low dose such as 0.25 mg or 0.5 mg once weekly. The dosage is then gradually increased every four to five weeks until reaching 2.4 mg, depending on your body’s response to each adjustment.
The side effects of semaglutide are generally mild, particularly when compared to the health risks associated with overweight and obesity.
Potential side effects for those using semaglutide for weight loss include:
Gastrointestinal discomfort is the most common concern when starting semaglutide. However, starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it may help minimize these side effects.
It’s best to discuss semaglutide side effects in full with your health provider and ask for their advice when necessary. Typically, adjusting the dose or taking medication to control the symptoms should help, but it’s also important to remain hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
According to FDA guidelines, semaglutide is recommended for weight loss if you meet one of the following criteria:
Avoid semaglutide if you have:
Before contemplating semaglutide for weight loss, it's crucial to consult your primary care physician (PCP). They are familiar with your personal and family medical history and can offer guidance on the most appropriate treatment for your situation. If you have diabetes and are currently taking other medications, discuss acceptable and safe combinations of diabetes medication with your physician.
To find out more about semaglutide and whether it’s a suitable treatment for you, call the experienced team at MINT STL or schedule a weight-loss consultation at one of our clinics.
