What is Semaglutide?

 Semaglutide is a medication used for weight loss that belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. Semaglutide works by mimicking the action of a naturally occurring hormone in the body called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which helps to regulate blood sugar levels and appetite.

When taken as a once-weekly injection, semaglutide activates GLP-1 receptors in the brain, which can help reduce feelings of hunger and increase feelings of fullness. Semaglutide also slows down the emptying of the stomach, which can lead to a reduced calorie intake.

In addition to its effects on appetite and digestion, semaglutide may also help to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose control, which can be beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes who are also overweight or obese.

Overall, the combination of appetite suppression and improved glucose control makes semaglutide an effective medication for weight loss in individuals with obesity or overweight who have failed to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. However, it should be noted that semaglutide should be used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for best results.

 Semaglutide for weight loss is typically administered as a subcutaneous injection once a week. It comes with a small "insulin-like" syringe that you can use to inject the medication into the fatty tissue of your stomach, thigh, or upper arm.

The starting dose of semaglutide for weight loss is 0.25 mg once a week, and your provider may gradually increase the dose to 1 mg per week over a period of 4-8 weeks. The provider will determine the appropriate dose for you based on your individual response to the medication and your overall health.

It is important to follow your provider's instructions carefully and not to change the dose or frequency of semaglutide injections without first consulting with your provider. Semaglutide injections should be used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for best results.

If you miss a dose of semaglutide, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is already time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

Before starting semaglutide, it is important to discuss your medical history, including any allergies, with your doctor to determine if this medication is safe and appropriate for you to use.

 The amount of weight that can be lost with semaglutide can vary depending on individual factors such as starting weight, diet and exercise habits, and adherence to the medication regimen.

In clinical trials, participants taking semaglutide for weight loss lost an average of 15-20% of their body weight over the course of 68 weeks. This translates to an average weight loss of approximately 33-44 pounds for a person starting at a weight of 220 pounds.

It is important to note that individual results may vary, and some people may lose more or less weight than others. Additionally, weight loss results may be influenced by factors such as age, sex, and underlying medical conditions.

While semaglutide can be an effective tool for weight loss, it should be used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for best results. It is also important to continue to follow a healthy lifestyle even after stopping semaglutide to maintain weight loss over the long term.

1. Hypersensitivity: Semaglutide is contraindicated in patients who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to the medication or any of its ingredients.
2. Medullary thyroid cancer: Semaglutide is contraindicated in patients with a history of medullary thyroid cancer or in patients with a family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) type 2.
3. Pancreatitis: Semaglutide is contraindicated in patients with a history of pancreatitis or with severe hypertriglyceridemia.
4. Diabetic ketoacidosis: Semaglutide is contraindicated in patients with a history of diabetic ketoacidosis.
5. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Semaglutide is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of safety data.
6. Age: Semaglutide has not been studied in pediatric patients and is not recommended for use in children.