Semaglutide Weight Loss

How does Semaglutide work for weight loss?

Semaglutide belongs to the class of drugs termed GLP-1 receptor agonists. GLP-1 receptor agonist medication group can help lose weight in two ways.

1.     They delay gastric emptying.  So, by slowing the stomach down you can feel less hungry for longer.

2.     They signal to the brain that there is still food. This then decreases hunger and cravings.

How much weight will I lose on Semaglutide?

Semaglutide injection is effective in treating adults with obesity or who are overweight. Patients receiving weekly semaglutide injections were able to lose 12% to 13% body weight by week 12 in a random controlled trial. In our experience we have found about 5 lbs of weight loss per month is typical but have seen as much as 15 lbs of weight loss in one month!

Is Semaglutide approved for weight loss?

On June 20, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved subcutaneous semaglutide for long-term weight control / chronic weight management 1.8 and 1.5 mg dose per week. The studies of semaglutide treatment in obese patients showed the effectiveness of semaglutide in treating overweight and obese individuals (Body Mass index/BMI of 27 or greater). Weight related diseases were also factored into prescribing for healthcare providers and patients who were overweight but not obese. Double blind studies showed up to a 15% reduction in weight loss versus participants who received placebo in clinical trial, moving many patients with obesity out of the category.

How do I get the best results from Semaglutide for weight loss?

This product works best for weight loss when patients accompany it with good diet and exercising. The largest clinical trial showed semaglutide was effective at reducing body weight by about 15% compared with non-user patients in other countries. Having a support system in place to support health and lifestyle changes is also helpful for maintaining a healthy BMI and staying out of the obesity category.

How often do I need to take Semaglutide?

In the clinical studies patients took their medication just once a week for weight management. This is typically what is prescribed for weight loss treatment however your provider will work with you to get the best results. Initially a lower dose may be prescribed and as you tolerate the medication with few side effects the lower dose may be increased.

Since Semaglutide is also a diabetes medication, will it have any effect on my blood sugar?

Clinical studies with treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes showed an improvement in participants’ blood sugar as well as weight loss. Patients with blood sugars that border on diabetes often show improvement in blood sugar range on Semaglutide while also enjoying the benefit of losing weight. Low blood sugar is a rare side effect in patients, which is more common when combined with insulin. Be sure to tell your health care provider any medications you are taking.

How do I take Semaglutide?

At the appointment you will be taught how to inject the medication weekly for weight management. Semaglutide is a subcutaneous injection that can be given in multiple sites such as the arm, thigh or stomach. The individual dose varies on the person and provider but typically to avoid adverse effects dosing treatment starts low and is increased monthly while lifestyle interventions are also implemented. It is important while taking a GLP 1 medication to drink plenty of water to manage side effects such as headache, constipation, nausea and vomiting.

Semaglutide FAQ’s

What are the side effects of Semaglutide for obesity/overweight?

As with any medication, side effects can occur. The most common side effects of semaglutide injections reported are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, bloating and headache. Burping is another side effect that we have noted in our office. We do also offer a “sensitive” version of Semaglutide in our Scottsdale office that is compounded with BPC, a peptide that can be an effective treatment with some of the stomach side effects mentioned. Other more serious but rare side effects related to taking this medication that have been reported include rash, hives, itching, dizziness, swelling, trouble swallowing and dry mouth. Clinical trials on this weight loss medication occurred for 68 weeks and were found to be safe. If you have side effects from this medicine, drugs or supplements can be discussed with your healthcare provider. Sometimes a trial of magnesium can help with the side effect of constipation.

Who should not take Semaglutide?

Women who are breastfeeding or pregnant should not take Semaglutide to lose weight. If you have certain types of cancer, such as medullary thyroid, are on dialysis, have a history of pancreatitis or gastroparesis you would want to avoid Semaglutide. Other medical conditions and health concerns such as cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, gallbladder disease, past bariatric surgery should be discussed with your medical provider before starting Semaglutide. Be sure to discuss any medications you are taking with your health care provider.

What labs should be drawn prior to starting Semaglutide weight loss?

Adult patients starting Semaglutide to lose weight or for chronic weight management should have a basic metabolic panel and complete blood count drawn prior to initiation of semaglutide weight loss. Some adults patients may have an increased c reactive protein on labs which may be improved on this medication and should be monitored by healthcare professionals. Initial body weight should also be measured prior to initiation of semaglutide weight loss.

What should I feel like taking once weekly Semaglutide?

Semaglutide weight loss has been shown to regulate appetite. When combined with a reduced calorie diet, excess weight can be shed and cardiovascular risk factors can be decreased. Many patients with increased blood pressure have shown an improvement in their numbers and other weight related complications. Many patients have been able to increase their physical activity on this new drug treatment. Average weight loss is about 15% in most patients on semaglutide weight loss compared to baseline weight.

How often do I need to follow up in the office?

Some offices vary in their policies on this treatment so always check with your provider with your obesity/overweight treatment. In our Scottsdale office, we typically require a follow up once a month as we increase the dosing and monitor for any side effects while reaching your weight loss goals. Any adverse events or medical concerns should be discussed at the appointment to mange obesity/overweight. Once on maintenance dosing of this medication and you are losing weight successfully the follow ups become less frequent.

Is it safe to stop Semaglutide once I’ve reached my weight loss goal?

Continued weekly subcautaneous semaglutide has shown great results in obesity management however is safe to stop or gradually decrease. Clinical trials on the medication for weight loss ended at 68 weeks. Side effects from stopping the medication such as nausea and vomiting are uncommon. Some people only need the medication for a few months to reach their goals but others may need to stay on this medicine longer.  Working with your healthcare provider closely to determine a plan is important so that the weight loss goal is maintained long term. Long term goals in a medical plan should include a continued diet and exercise as well as other lifestyle interventions.

Is Weight gain a possible side effect of Semaglutide weight loss?

In our Scottsdale office weight gain is not a side effect that we have seen. We require monthly check ins to monitor weight loss and blood pressure as well as any side effects. We also discuss a reduced calorie diet and physical activity to ensure successful weight loss. For chronic weight management this medication has been a game changer in the world of weight loss. Contact our Scottsdale office to see if Semaglutide weight loss is an option for your weight loss journey.