15 Mar Semaglutide for weight loss – what you need to know

The latest craze in the weight loss space is the injectable diabetes medicine semaglutide. Is it a reasonable choice for people who do not have blood sugar problems but are overweight or obese and looking for help with losing weight?  

70% of Americans are classified as obese or overweight. The cardiovascular health benefits realized from even modest weight loss are substantial. The weekly injectable medicine can help people lose up to 2 pounds per week when paired with calorie reduction and exercise.

Semaglutide is a peptide (a small molecule that is basically a string of amino acids) that is FDA-approved for weight loss for the obese and those who are overweight and have at least one cardiovascular risk factor, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol issues.

The medicine works by reducing appetite, allowing for calorie restriction without hunger. It does this through various metabolic effects, including delaying gastric emptying time and increasing insulin secretion, as well as retarding the release of glucagon from the liver.  

The peptide is generally well tolerated, but some side effects are mostly gastrointestinal, including nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. 

Semaglutide is in a class of drugs called GLPA1 agonists.  These peptides are becoming real game changers in the weight loss category. The many recent social media posts and testimonials showcasing the weight loss associated with semaglutide are helping to spread the word and encouraging interest.  If you are one of the many people struggling to lose weight, reach out to your physician and schedule some time to discuss and develop a strategy for success.