Introduction: A new medication, semaglutide, has shown significant promise in helping people lose weight. In a study of 3,731 participants, those who used semaglutide lost an average of 19.3 pounds over 68 weeks, while those who didn’t use the medication only lost an average of 2.8 pounds. Semaglutide is administered via injection once a week. It is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analog that works by signalizing satiety to the brain and reducing hunger. Currently, semaglutide is only available for treatment of Type 2 diabetes; however, the FDA is reviewing it for use as a Weight Loss medication.
How does Semaglutide Work?
Semaglutide works by signaling to the brain that the stomach is full and reduces hunger. As a result, people feel fuller sooner and eat less. Additionally, semaglutide slows digestion and the absorption of nutrients from food which also leads to reduced hunger.
Is Semaglutide Effective?
Yes, semaglutide is effective for weight loss. In one study cited by the National Institutes of Health, “participants treated with once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide 2.4 mg lost an average of 19.3 pounds (8.8 kg) more than participants treated with placebo over 68 weeks” (NIH). Furthermore, another study showed that “participants treated with once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide 2.4 mg lost an average of 16% of their initial body weight after 68 weeks compared with 2% for placebo-treated participants” (NIH). These studies suggest that not only does semaglutide help people lose weight, but it helps them maintain that weight loss over time.
Are There Any Side Effects?
The most common side effects are nausea, diarrhea, decreased appetite, upper respiratory tract infection, and anxiety (NLM). However, these side effects are typically mild to moderate and tend to go away over time as your body adjusts to the medication (NLM). Additionally, the side effects seem to be dose-dependent; meaning that they are more likely to occur at higher doses and lessen as the dose is decreased (NLM).
As with any medication or supplement, it is always important to talk to your doctor before starting semglutide or any other weight loss medication or supplementto make sure it is right for you and that you are aware of any potential risks or side effects.
Conclusion: Semagulatide offers promise as a new Weight Loss medication; it is safe and effective with mild to moderate side effects that tend to go away over time at lower doses. If you are considering trying semulatide for Weight Loss, be sure to speak with your doctor first.