Discover Semaglutide: The Medication Revolutionizing Weight Loss
Read Time : 2 mins 30 sec
Despite the availability of several weight loss medications, such as phentermine and orlistat®, some individuals struggle to shed pounds. Factors beyond diet and exercise can complicate the weight loss process. Today, let's delve into a new addition to the weight loss medication scene: Semaglutide.
I want to discuss in this blog post what Semaglutide is, how it works to aid weight loss, the success rate for weight loss, the side effects of this medication, and if it is appropriate for you.
So what is all this buzz about Semaglutide? And how does it work to help lose weight?
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide) receptor agonist and imitates GLP-1 naturally produced in your body. GLP-1 is a hormone released in your gut with eating. GLP-1 hormone prompts the body to produce more insulin to help lower the sugar in the body. But in higher amounts, GLP-1 also communicates with the brain's appetite-suppressing regions, signaling that you are full. So GLP-1 medications prevent you from going for the 'seconds' of your meals and desserts or snacking between meals. So GLP-1 medications have been prescribed since at least 2017 to treat type 2 diabetes.
Tell me the success rate of semaglutide.
In trials with semaglutide, the mean weight loss was ~ 15- 20% in obese patients. A percent % weight loss of 15% was observed in half the participants taking semaglutide weekly injections at 68 weeks, and a third lost 20%. If your starting weight is 300 lbs, you likely lose about 45 lbs. This weight loss was similar to the bariatric surgeries' success with weight loss. Semaglutide is most effective when used in conjunction with healthy lifestyle modifications, such as eating a nutritious diet, consuming smaller portions, and engaging in regular physical activity. So the FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist medications are Wegovy® (once a week injection) and Saxenda® (daily inection) for weight loss ( as of day of publication of article).
So what is the catch with Semaglutide? Tell me the side effects of this medication.
Every medication has a side effect; some experience it, and others may not. The most common noticeable side effect is nausea and vomiting, which improves for many people as the week progresses. Semaglutide also slows gastric emptying so that some people may experience bloating, stomach pain, and indigestion. Constipation is another side effect that is associated with semaglutide. Of course, interactions with semaglutide and other medications, such as blood glucose-lowering medications, should be discussed with your physician.
Do I meet the criteria for the prescription of Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is appropriate if your BMI is 27kg/m2 or greater and at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. It is also appropriate medication if your BMI is 30kg/m2. Semaglutide is inappropriate if you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer, history of pancreatitis, or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2).
In conclusion, Semaglutide could be a valuable tool for weight loss but should be used in conjunction with lifestyle changes and under a physician's guidance. Each person's journey is unique, so discuss your options with your doctor to determine the best path forward.
