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Writer's picturePauleen Flake, RND

Semaglutide: The Weekly Shot That's Changing the Game for Obesity



If you're struggling with excess weight and have tried diet and exercise without success, weight loss medications may be just what you need to jumpstart your journey toward a healthier you. These medications have been proven effective at helping people shed unwanted pounds when combined with lifestyle changes. Knowing which one is right for you can be tricky, but let's shed some light on semaglutide.


Semaglutide is a medication that has recently been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of obesity. It is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which means it mimics the effects of a hormone called GLP-1 in the body. Here are the top 5 facts about semaglutide and weight loss:


Semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss


Clinical trials have shown that semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss in people who are overweight or obese. In a trial involving 1,961 adults with obesity, those who took semaglutide lost an average of 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks, compared to those who took a placebo and lost an average of 2.4% of their body weight.


Semaglutide works by reducing the appetite


Semaglutide works by reducing appetite, which leads to a reduction in caloric intake and weight loss. It does this by stimulating the release of insulin and suppressing the release of glucagon, two hormones that regulate blood sugar levels. Semaglutide also delays the emptying of food from the stomach, which can help people feel fuller for longer.






Semaglutide is given as a once-weekly injection


Semaglutide is given as a once-weekly injection under the skin. It is important to follow the instructions given by your healthcare provider for proper administration. Semaglutide is available in doses of 0.25 mg and 1 mg.


Semaglutide has some potential side effects


Like any medication, semaglutide has some potential side effects. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal in nature and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. These side effects usually go away on their own after a few days or weeks. In rare cases, semaglutide can cause pancreatitis, a serious inflammation of the pancreas.


Semaglutide is not a magic solution for weight loss


While semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss, it is not a magic solution for weight loss. It should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise to achieve long-term weight loss and improve overall health. Semaglutide is also not recommended for everyone and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.





In conclusion, semaglutide is a promising medication for the treatment of obesity that can lead to significant weight loss by reducing appetite. It is important to follow the instructions given by your healthcare provider and to use semaglutide in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise for long-term weight loss and improved health.


Are you looking to lose weight? Is weight loss medication right for you? If so, get in touch with a weight specialist and a registered nutritionist dietitian who can guide you by providing lifestyle plans tailor-fit to your individual needs. Schedule an appointment today!

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