Searching for safe and effective weight loss treatment? Well, the journey might seem endless. After 2021, Semaglutide, the latest anti-obesity medication, received approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and has gained mass popularity. But the question might arise in your mind: “Is Semaglutide Safe?”
This injectable drug was initially used as a diabetes medication. Since 2014, this medication has received approval for chronic weight management for adult individuals suffering from obese or overweight issues.
However, Semaglutide is not a miracle drug and is not suitable for everyone. Here in this blog post, we are going to talk about its efficacy, safety profiles, side effects and more. Let’s dig in.
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that mimics the activity of GLP-1, a hormone released in the intestine after eating. GLP-1 stimulates insulin production to lower blood sugar levels and interacts with the brain to reduce hunger and enhance feelings of fullness.
When combined with proper diet and regular exercise, Semaglutide may lead to significant weight loss and a reduced risk of cancer, diabetes and heart disease in individuals who are obese or overweight.
Semaglutide Medications
Semaglutide is an active ingredient in Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus. It is used for weight loss in specific patients, to lower blood sugar levels, and to decrease the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke in certain patients. Semaglutide increases insulin release, reduces glucagon release, delays gastric emptying, and decreases appetite.
This is the only FDA-approved for weight loss under the brand name Wegovy. The standard dose for weight loss is 2.4 milligrams, administered weekly as subcutaneous injections.
Ozempic
This injection drug is FDA-approved to reduce blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes and to lower the risk of serious cardiac events such as stroke, heart attack, and death in individuals with diabetes and heart disease. Weekly doses range from 0.25 milligrams to 2 milligrams.
Rybelsus (tablet)
This is FDA-approved to lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes, taken daily in doses ranging from 3 milligrams to 14 milligrams.
Wegovy
This injection medication gains FDA-approval for treating adults and children over 12 who have obesity or weight-related health issues such as high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, or high blood pressure. It is recommended to be taken weekly in doses ranging from 0.25 milligrams to 2.4 milligrams.
How Safe is Semaglutide for Weight Loss?
There have been several anti-obesity medications designed to suppress appetite and promote weight loss, but semaglutide stands out.
A 2021 phase 3 clinical trial on 2,000 obese adults compared individuals using semaglutide along with a proper diet and exercise program to those making the same lifestyle changes without semaglutide.
After 68 weeks of research, it has been found that weekly 2.4 milligram semaglutide injections resulted in an average weight loss of 14.9% (compared to 2.4% with a placebo) after 68 weeks in individuals with a BMI of 30 or above.
What Are the Side Effects of Semaglutide?
The side effects of semaglutide injection drugs are generally mild, particularly when compared to the complications associated with obesity.
Those taking semaglutide for weight loss may experience:
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Low blood sugar -
Dizziness -
Fatigue -
Loss of Appetite -
Tiredness -
Gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, constipation, and gas -
Headache -
Stomach issues, including nausea, vomiting, pain, or bloating
Gastrointestinal issues are the most common complaint among new users of semaglutide. However, starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it can help minimize these side effects.
Who Should Avoid Semaglutide?
The FDA recommends Semaglutide (Wegovy) for chronic weight loss management for individuals who meet one of the following criteria:
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Must have a body mass index (BMI) of 27 kg/m² or greater with at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. -
With a BMI of 30 kg/m² or greater.
They also recommend to avoid semaglutide if you have:
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A history of medullary thyroid cancer. -
Gallbladder disease. -
Pancreatitis. -
Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2).
If you are considering “is semaglutide safe” for weight loss, consult your primary care physician (PCP). They are familiar with your personal and family medical history and can recommend the best treatment. If you have diabetes and are on another medication, discuss safe combinations with your physician.
How Fast Can I Lose 20 lbs on Semaglutide?
The rate at which you can lose 20 lbs on semaglutide varies significantly from person to person. This widely depends on individual factors such as starting weight, diet, exercise, and adherence to the medication.
Clinical trials have shown that significant weight loss can be achieved over 68 weeks, with some individuals losing 15-20% of their body weight. On average, it might take several months to reach a 20-pound loss, with steady progress seen over weeks.
It is important to follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and maintain a balanced diet and exercise regimen for optimal results and safety. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice and expectations.
The Bottom Line
Semaglutide can be a safe and effective option for weight loss, especially for those struggling with obesity-related health issues. While side effects are generally mild, such as gastrointestinal discomfort, starting with a lower dose can help minimize them.
Always consult your healthcare provider to determine “is Semaglutide safe for you” and to ensure it complements your overall weight loss strategy.
Here at Precision Telemed, we thoroughly analyze your detailed medical history and offer personalized semaglutide weight loss plans to help you shed your unwanted extra pounds.
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