Semaglutide is a pharmaceutical agent initially employed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It has gained recent approval from the Food and Drug Administration for use in managing weight in the adult population.
The mechanism action of semaglutide involves emulation of a hormone known as GLP-1 in the human body. This hormone plays an essential role in moderating blood sugar levels and suppressing the appetite. Therefore, semaglutide aids in weight reduction for overweight or obese individuals through this mechanism.
Research published in The New England Journal of Medicine in February 2021 supports this assertion. The study participants who received 2.4 mg of Semaglutide on a weekly basis reported substantial weight loss. Over an observation period of 68 weeks, these participants lost an average of 14.9% of their total body weight.
However, as with any pharmaceutical product, Semaglutide might cause side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal discomfort. Typically, these adverse effects are transitional and tend to alleviate as the human body acclimatizes to the medication. Additionally, medication can be prescribed to mitigate these symptoms while the body adjusts.
For this reason it is generally recommended to start at the lowest dose of 0.25 mg to assess weight loss and tolerability. Increasing every four weeks as necessary to maintain weight loss of approximately one pound per week. This is imperative as further weight loss will result in larger muscle mass reductions.
It's imperative to discuss potential treatment options, including Semaglutide or any comparable medication for weight loss, with a qualified healthcare provider who can offer personalized advice based on an individual's unique health requirements. Please reach out to me with any questions, treatment or further discussion regarding this medication.
Dr Benjamin Wallace
The Sonder Clinic
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