Have you been struggling with weight loss? Do you find it hard to stick to a diet and exercise plan? If so, you might be interested in Semaglutide, a new weight loss medication recently approved by the FDA.
This medication has garnered much attention lately, but you might still have some doubts or questions. In this blog post, we’ll explore the 5 most frequently asked questions about Semaglutide for weight loss.
What is Semaglutide and How Does it Work?
Semaglutide belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists that mimic the action of a hormone in the body called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). This hormone is released from the gut in response to a meal and signals the body to produce insulin, which helps to reduce blood sugar levels.
Semaglutide works by binding to GLP-1 receptors in the brain, which reduces appetite, slows down stomach emptying and increases feelings of fullness. This helps to decrease food intake and promote weight loss.
Who is a Good Candidate for Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is indicated for use in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, or in adults with a BMI of 27 or more who have at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.
It’s important to note that Semaglutide is not a magic pill and should be used in conjunction with diet and exercise for the best results. It’s also not recommended in pregnant or breastfeeding women or individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma.
How Is Semaglutide Administered?
Semaglutide is administered as a once-weekly, self-administered, subcutaneous injection (under the skin). The starting dosage is 0.25 mg per week for four weeks, then increased to 0.5 mg per week for another four weeks. The maintenance dose is 1.0 mg per week.
It’s important to follow the prescribed dosing schedule and not to change the dose without consulting your healthcare provider.
What are the Possible Side Effects of Semaglutide?
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation. These side effects usually improve over time and can be managed with dietary changes, drinking plenty of fluids, and over-the-counter medications if necessary.
More serious but rare side effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, an increased risk of thyroid cancer, and allergic reactions. Your healthcare provider should monitor you for these side effects while on Semaglutide.
What are the Long-term Effects of Semaglutide?
Semaglutide has been shown to be effective in promoting weight loss in clinical trials. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reported an average weight loss of 15% in participants over one year.
However, it’s important to note that Semaglutide is a new drug, and its long-term effects are still unknown. It’s also not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. It is important to maintain healthy eating and exercise habits even after stopping the medication.
Conclusion:
Semaglutide is a promising new medication that can help promote weight loss in individuals with an elevated BMI or weight-related conditions. However, it’s important to discuss your suitability for Semaglutide with your healthcare provider and to follow the recommended dosing schedule and healthy lifestyle habits. As with any medication, be aware of the possible side effects and seek medical attention if necessary.
If you are interested in learning more about semaglutide or other weight loss medications, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are always here to help!
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