Semaglutide is an innovative new medication recently approved for chronic weight management. This glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist has shown promising results in helping patients achieve and sustain significant weight loss. Here we explore the basics of semaglutide weight loss treatment, including how it works, its benefits, potential side effects, and more specifics around accessing this medication.
Semaglutide is an injectable prescription medication originally approved for type 2 diabetes treatment. Research later showed its additional impact on weight, leading to FDA approval of a higher dose semaglutide specifically for chronic weight management.
Sold under the brand name Wegovy, this GLP-1 medication helps regulate blood sugar levels while suppressing appetite. The once-weekly injection helps patients feel fuller faster while eating less overall.
There are two key ways semaglutide facilitates weight loss in patients:
By activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain, semaglutide promotes feelings of fullness and limits hunger. People injecting this medication tend to eat less without constant hunger or cravings thwarting their efforts.
Semaglutide also slows digestion, preventing blood sugar spikes and extending feelings of fullness between meals. This stabilized blood sugar and delayed gastric emptying reinforces appetite suppression for better weight control.
Together, these effects result in reduced calorie intake for steady targeted weight loss over time.
Beyond simply promoting fat loss, semaglutide weight loss treatment offers other advantages:
Overall, semaglutide represents an easy, effective way to lose weight and reduce obesity-related health complications.
Semaglutide requires once-weekly self-administered subcutaneous injections, typically in the abdomen, thigh, or arm. The starting dose is 0.25mg, increasing gradually up to the 1mg or 2.4mg target dose. This slow ramp-up reduces potential side effects.
Most patients will remain on the full dose for up to 2 years total duration. It generally takes 68 weeks at the top dose to realize the full impact on appetite, weight loss, and other benefits.
As with most medications, semaglutide carries a risk of certain adverse reactions, including:
These gastric-related effects typically resolve within days to weeks as the body adjusts. For most patients, side effects remain mild to moderate at worst.
More serious risks like pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, severe hypoglycemia, and thyroid tumors are very rare but will rule out treatment. Kidney impairment may require dose adjustments as well.
Since semaglutide is newer on the market, many doctors and clinics do not yet offer weight loss prescriptions.Revive Hormone Institute has extensive experience with semaglutide and other innovative treatments targeting obesity and related health conditions.
Our compassionate providers partner with patients to determine if semaglutide is appropriate and oversee medication management for optimal, lasting results. We handle insurance approvals and appeals to secure coverage when possible.
To learn more about semaglutide weight loss in , contact our office today to set up a consultation.Here is a 5-topic FAQ with answers about Semaglutide Weight Loss in , :
Semaglutide is an injectable medication that mimics a hormone called GLP-1. It works by stimulating insulin production, which lowers blood sugar levels. It also slows digestion and makes you feel fuller for longer, leading you to eat less. Over time, creating a calorie deficit results in weight loss for most patients. Semaglutide is an exciting new weight loss option that doesn't require surgery.
The most common side effects of semaglutide are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain. These gastrointestinal side effects are usually mild to moderate and often decrease over time. Less common side effects include low blood sugar, pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and kidney problems. It's important to monitor side effects and report severe or persistent issues to your provider.
Most patients lose 10-15% of their body weight over 12-20 weeks on semaglutide. However, results vary significantly. In clinical trials, some patients lost over 25% while a minority lost little weight. The amount of weight you lose depends on several factors like diet, activity levels, semaglutide dosage, and how your body responds. Expect gradual, steady weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week rather than dramatic overnight results.
Like most medications, discontinuing semaglutide may result in some weight regain as side effects decrease appetite diminish. Staying on a healthy diet and exercise plan is vital for keeping weight off long-term. Some data indicates the early weight loss achieved with semaglutide may “reset” your metabolism to help sustain lower body weight over time. But lifestyle changes are still required for continued success. Discuss an exit strategy with your provider before starting.
Semaglutide may be a good option if you have struggled to lose weight through diet and lifestyle alone. It works well for those with obesity and weight-related health issues like diabetes or high cholesterol. Consider both risks and benefits. Semaglutide is a serious medication requiring provider screening and oversight. Success requires commitment to lifestyle changes. But substantial weight loss is possible for many patients. Schedule a consultation to see if a semaglutide regimen could help you meet your goals.
