What Is Semaglutide?

Originally, semaglutide was FDA-approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. This medication is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist which impacts insulin levels. Semaglutide acts like the hormone GLP-1 in the body, which impacts the portion of the brain that regulates insulin and hunger response. The drug can increase the production of insulin, which can improve blood sugar levels, as well as decrease appetite and hunger.

One of the “side effects” that occurred when semaglutide was FDA-approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes was weight loss. This was a welcomed effect for many people with type 2 diabetes, helping them control their weight. As often occurs with medications, the side effects intrigued pharmaceutical companies, leading to medical studies and trials to determine whether semaglutide could be an effective weight loss drug.

Semaglutide Trials and Studies

Semaglutide was scrutinized extensively for its weight loss effects. The drug (Wegovy) underwent four separate 68-week trials to determine whether semaglutide obtained reliable, safe weight loss. The trials were all randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies with one offering a randomized withdrawal ending where patients were either given a placebo or continued with Wegovy. Over 2,600 patients received semaglutide for 68 weeks while approximately 1,500 patients received the placebo.

Individuals without diabetes lost 12.4% of their body weight on Wegovy during the trial compared to those on the placebo. In additional studies, semaglutide was shown to increase weight loss and keep it off versus those that only used diet and exercise after an initial 20-week treatment with Wegovy. Those who used semaglutide for the full 68 weeks lost an average of 17.4% weight loss and 41 pounds compared to only 5% weight loss for patients with diet and exercise alone.

Beyond the initial trials for semaglutide that lead to FDA approval, there have been promising results from this weight loss treatment. Many patients are able to achieve up to 18% body weight loss in approximately eight weeks. Diet and exercise are not necessary to lose weight with Wegovy, but semaglutide is very effective when combined with a healthy wellness routine.

How Does Semaglutide Weight Loss Work?

The semaglutide weight loss program involves weekly injections of the drug for at least eight weeks. Semaglutide goes to workmimicking GLP-1 to suppress hunger and reduce your appetite. One effect of GLP-1 is delaying the emptying of the stomach, helping you feel fuller longer after eating. Another effect is suppressing the glucagon hormone, which reduces hunger. Semaglutide is a GLP-1 agonist, which means it can bind to GLP-1 receptors, triggering the same response as GLP-1.

One of the benefits of semaglutide for weight loss is that you do not need to take pills or injections every day. One injection per week is all you need to achieve the desired results. Many patients start with an eight-week program to lose their desired weight. If more weight needs to be lost after the eight weeks, semaglutide injections can be continued until you reach your goal.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Semaglutide Weight Loss?

Most people who are overweight could benefit from semaglutide injections for weight loss. In clinical trials, the majority of patients were classified as obese – the average BMI in one study was 38. However, semaglutide is recommended for those who are overweight with accompanying health conditions related to their weight such as high blood pressure or sleep apnea. Those with a BMI of 30 or higher are considered obese and qualify for weight loss treatment.

There are only a few restrictions related to semaglutide weight loss treatment. It is not recommended for those with a rare condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) or those with a family history or risk of medullary thyroid carcinoma.

Benefits of Semaglutide for Weight Loss

Beyond the simplicity of once-a-week injections, semaglutide can be life-changing for many people. Losing weight can be a struggle when you are constantly hungry and feel deprived when you try to consume fewer calories. Semaglutide gives you more control over what you eatreducing your appetite and hunger, without the negative side effects that occurred with many weight loss drugs in the past. The few reported side effects are very mild, and many patients have little to no negative effects from their treatment.

Most patients receive a small dose of semaglutide to begin, then the dose is increased every few weeks until the maximum dosage of 2.4 mg.  This gradual increase in dosage can help minimize any negative side effects with most patients noticing a difference in their appetite and hunger soon after their first injection.

While maintaining weight loss long-term is mostly dependent on the individual, the outlook for semaglutide is promising. Many patients have been able to maintain their weight loss for two years in the trials. Sticking with healthier eating habits and an active lifestyle are always recommended for long-term weight management. Semaglutide can be used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle – some patients may desire subsequent semaglutide injections to maintain their weight over the years to come.

Semaglutide Weight Loss Program in Phoenix

At Arcadia Wellness Center, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the latest treatments to improve their health, appearance and confidence. We have been a source for the most innovative options in medical weight loss for many years, helping our patients achieve a healthier body and more attractive appearance. Our medical team now offers semaglutide weight loss at our clinic in Phoenix, AZ.

Sarah Quinn, our medical director, and the rest of our wellness team can support you in your weight loss and aesthetic goals. We will start with a consultation to discuss your health and whether semaglutide weight loss may be right for you. If you are a good candidate for semaglutide treatments, we can perform your injections weekly at our clinic in Phoenix. We also offer weight loss support options, such as nutritional counseling, fat burner injections, B12 injections, nutritional weight loss supplements and more. Every patient receives a personalized weight loss plan whether they choose semaglutide injections or other medical weight loss options we offer at our clinic.

Semaglutide weight loss has been a game-changer for many of our patients at Arcadia Wellness Center. The weekly injections can help give you control over your appetite and help you make better choices when it comes to your diet. If you live in the greater Phoenix, AZ area and want to explore whether semaglutide weight loss is right for you, contact us at Arcadia Wellness Center. Call our clinic to schedule your weight loss consultation and begin your journey to a healthier, thinner you! 

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