Semaglutide is an injectable prescription medication originally approved for treating type 2 diabetes. More recently, a higher dose of semaglutide called Wegovy was approved specifically for chronic weight management in obese adults.
Semaglutide belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs mimic the effects of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) that is released naturally by the body. GLP-1 slows digestion and reduces appetite, leading to weight loss.
Key Takeaways:
There are several ways semaglutide helps with shedding those extra pounds:
Semaglutide activates areas of the brain that reduce appetite. People do not feel as hungry when taking semaglutide shots regularly. With a decreased urge to snack between meals or overeat, managing calories becomes much easier.
By slowing down the rate at which food leaves the stomach and enters the small intestines, semaglutide promotes a feeling of fullness and satisfaction after eating smaller portions. People feel fuller for longer periods of time.
Semaglutide helps the body better control blood sugar spikes and crashes which can trigger hunger and cravings. Keeping blood sugar stable means fewer energy crashes that lead to snacking.
In addition to the above effects, research shows that semaglutide increases fat burning when calories are restricted for weight loss. More body fat can be lost compared to just dieting alone.
So in multiple ways, semaglutide shots shift the body into "fat burning mode" leading to considerable weight loss over weeks and months of treatment.
Semaglutide shots when combined with healthy low-calorie eating and increased physical activity have been found to result in:
In clinical trials, most patients lost 10-15% of their body weight over 68 weeks on the semaglutide weight loss dose compared to those on placebo who lost little weight. For someone weighing 200 lbs, that would equal 20-30 lb weight loss.
Beyond just weight loss, semaglutide improves risk factors for heart disease and stroke like waist circumference, blood pressure, blood fats and blood sugar levels.
For most people losing weight is just half the battle. Keeping weight off long-term is extremely challenging with traditional diets. Data show most semaglutide patients do much better at sustaining weight loss over time than those not on medication.
By promoting weight loss and better health, semaglutide can help people to boost energy levels, self-confidence, mood and quality of life! This benefit should not be overlooked.
Semaglutide has been extensively studied in certain populations where it is indicated:
Being overweight or obese significantly raises future health risks. Semaglutide can be an excellent treatment option for sustainable weight loss in this large group of individuals.
For those who have tried earnestly but unsuccessfully to lose weight through traditional means, semaglutide may offer new hope! Past failures do not mean future failure with this powerful medication.
If your struggles with excess weight and obesity-related health issues sound similar to the above groups, semaglutide shots could profoundly impact your health and wellness.
In addition to being approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity, semaglutide injections have shown promise in treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in clinical trials, significantly improving liver enzymes and inflammation compared to placebo.
Semaglutide therapy requires working closely with an experienced medical provider to determine if it is appropriate and to monitor progress. Here is a general overview:
Medical history, exam, lab tests and sometimes EKG or other testing is done initially to screen for any issues or contraindications to using semaglutide.
Semaglutide shots are given subcutaneously (into fat under skin) using prefilled, single use pens similar to insulin injections. After training, shots can be conveniently self-administered at home weekly.
Patients follow up usually monthly at first and then quarterly to review progress, address any side effects, and make dosage adjustments as needed. Providers may order tests to monitor health parameters periodically.
To maximize weight loss/health benefits, providers give advice on diet, physical activity and behavior changes. Comprehensive lifestyle modification coaching can greatly amplify semaglutide results.
The entire semaglutide team works together to help each patient achieve their health goals!
Like any medication, semaglutide does have some common transient side effects including:
GI upset is very common when first starting, but usually resolves within days to weeks as the body adjusts. Taking shots with food or using anti-nausea medicine helps manage symptoms.
Some patients report temporary loose stool or constipation. This also typically improves quickly over the first 4-6 weeks of therapy. Staying hydrated is important.
Feeling much less hungry is actually expected! However very low appetite/calorie intake can leave patients feeling a bit unfocused or weak at times. Eating regular small nutritious meals is key.
Outside of temporary GI side effects, semaglutide is very safe and well tolerated by most patients especially under close medical monitoring. The many health benefits far outweigh risks for appropriate candidates.
As rising leaders in weight management and hormone therapies, Vitality Balance Clinic takes a comprehensive approach to using semaglutide for obesity tailored to each patient's unique needs.
Our compassionate providers have years of expertise specifically with medications like semaglutide to help patients achieve sustainable success.
We offer nutritional consultations, fitness coaching and behavior change support to amplify semaglutide results through personalized plans. Holistic care leads to better outcomes!
Understanding the culture, attractions and establishments of Kissimmee, we can make targeted recommendations to keep therapy fun and engaging long-term for residents.
If you have struggled with obesity and related health issues, consider being evaluated for semaglutide shots. Vitality Balance Clinic offers cutting-edge medical treatments combined with lifestyle counseling for transformative results without judgment. Contact us today to learn more!
