Semaglutide is an innovative medication used for weight loss and diabetes management. It is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that regulates blood sugar levels and appetite.
Semaglutide was approved by the FDA in 2019 as a treatment for type 2 diabetes under the brand name Ozempic. More recently, in 2021, a higher dose of semaglutide was approved specifically for chronic weight management under the brand name Wegovy.
Benefits of semaglutide for weight loss:
In this article, we will provide an overview of using semaglutide for weight loss, how it works, dosing/administration, efficacy from clinical trials, safety profile, and more. We'll also discuss accessing semaglutide treatment at Renew Wellness Clinic.
Semaglutide leads to weight loss through several mechanisms:
It achieves these effects by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which plays an important role in blood sugar control and feeling satiated after meals.
Multiple large clinical trials have demonstrated the incredible efficacy of semaglutide for weight loss:
This level of weight loss can result in complete remission of type 2 diabetes in nearly 3 out of 4 people, as shown by the STEP trials.
Other research found additional health benefits like decreases in:
Thus, demonstrating semaglutide also improves other weight-related health issues.
As with any medication, an evaluation of efficacy must be balanced with assessing safety.
The most common side effects of semaglutide are gastrointestinal in nature and include:
There are also some important precautions and contraindications for semaglutide:
Rates of serious adverse events and discontinuation due to side effects were very low, indicating semaglutide is well-tolerated overall. No cases of severe hypoglycemia or hypersensitivity reactions occurred.
Like other GLP-1 RAs, semaglutide carries a black box warning about the potential risk of thyroid tumors. However, experts agree this concern seems mostly theoretical. No increased incidence was found even in rodent studies out to 2 years. Nonetheless, thyroid function should be assessed regularly.
While semaglutide represents an exciting breakthrough for medications used in the treatment of obesity, there are some important considerations for those looking to use it:
Commitment to lifestyle changes: Semaglutide promotes weight loss through suppressing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness. So it's vitally important to use it as an adjunct, not an alternative, to adopting healthy lifestyle changes involving improved nutrition and increased physical activity.
Accessing semaglutide: Currently, semaglutide is only available by prescription in the injectable formulations of Ozempic for diabetes and Wegovy for weight management. The weekly injections and regular lab monitoring require working closely with a knowledgeable healthcare provider.
Cost/coverage concerns: Semaglutide is still relatively new, so insurance coverage varies. Out-of-pocket costs may be prohibitive for some, but specialty pharmacies and financial assistance programs may help reduce expenses. Using Ozempic for "off-label" weight loss purposes tends to be significantly less expensive.
Weigh risks vs. benefits: As with any medical intervention, have an open discussion with your doctor about whether the benefits of treatment outweigh potential risks based on your individual health profile and circumstances. Monitor for side effects and follow dosing guidance closely.
The physician experts at Renew Wellness Clinic specialize in cutting-edge medical therapies for sustainable weight loss and better health, including semaglutide.
Their fully customizable programs address root causes of weight gain through individualized medication protocols, lab testing, lifestyle education, nutrition guidance, supplement recommendations, and more.
The comprehensive clinical team provides compassionate yet accountability-focused care with grace and understanding of each person's unique challenges and circumstances.
Contact Renew Wellness Clinic today to find out how adding powerful treatments like semaglutide to your wellness plan can help you finally reach your weight loss goals!
Additional Information on Semaglutide
Here is some more in-depth information on semaglutide for weight loss and how it works.
As a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, semaglutide helps regulate appetite and food intake, leading to decreased calorie consumption and therefore weight loss.
The key effects of semaglutide in the body include:
It achieves these through mimicking the incretin hormone GLP-1, which plays an integral role in:
By acting as a GLP-1 analog, semaglutide helps restore the body's natural food regulation mechanisms that become dysregulated in those struggling with obesity.
This makes it easier to consume fewer calories, resulting in accelerated weight loss.
Several major clinical trials have proven semaglutide safe and effective for weight loss:
| Trial | Participants | Average Weight Loss |
|---|---|---|
| SCALE Obesity | 1,961 adults with overweight/obesity | 15% total body weight |
| SCALE Diabetes | 1,210 adults with type 2 diabetes | 11% total body weight |
| STEP 1 | 611 adults with type 2 diabetes | 14% total body weight |
Participants treated with semaglutide lost significantly more weight compared to placebo groups in all trials. For example, in SCALE Obesity, semaglutide patients lost 3 times as much weight as the placebo group!
Semaglutide has been studied and approved for use in adults struggling with overweight and obesity.
Ideal candidates include those with:
It offers hope for people who have struggled to lose weight through diet and lifestyle alone. Studies found semaglutide effective regardless of age, gender, baseline BMI, or treatment history.
Those with severe kidney impairment, diabetic retinopathy, pregnancy, or breastfeeding should exercise caution or avoid semaglutide treatment.
Discuss your medical history thoroughly with a healthcare professional before deciding if semaglutide is suitable for your needs.
If you and your doctor determine semaglutide is an appropriate treatment option, here is an overview of what to expect:
1. Pre-Screening
2. Prescription and Injection Training
3. Follow-Up and Monitoring
Expect more frequent appointments early on with less intensive monitoring over time. Most people remain on treatment for 1-2 years, achieving maximal weight loss around 6 months.
Be prepared to put in work on nutrition, activity, and behavior changes for optimal results. But you don't have to tackle it alone - your medical team will provide coaching and support each step of the way!
Semaglutide represents a promising new treatment option for those struggling with overweight, obesity, and related health conditions. By mimicking the effects of the GLP-1 hormone, it can help regulate appetite, promote feelings of fullness, and lead to significant and sustainable weight loss when combined with a healthy lifestyle.
However, as with any medication, it's important to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits, follow dosing guidelines, and work closely with a knowledgeable healthcare provider throughout the treatment process.
At Renew Wellness Clinic, our team of experts specializes in cutting-edge medical therapies like semaglutide, tailored to each individual's unique needs and circumstances. We take a comprehensive approach, combining medication protocols with lifestyle education, nutrition guidance, and ongoing support to help our patients achieve their weight loss goals and improve their overall health and well-being.
If you're ready to take control of your weight and explore the potential benefits of semaglutide therapy, we invite you to contact Renew Wellness Clinic to schedule a consultation. Together, we can develop a personalized plan to help you achieve lasting success on your weight loss journey.
