Semaglutide is an injectable prescription medicine most commonly used along with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. However, it is also widely available as an off-label use for weight loss.
It falls in a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists and it works by stimulating the release of insulin from your pancreas when your body is exposed to glucose. It regulates your blood sugar, but it also targets that area in the brain that sends the signal of feeling full or not.
Semaglutide is a medication that is used to improve glycemic control in people with diabetes and has also been shown to cause weight loss. Some potential benefits of semaglutide for weight loss include:
- Significant weight loss: Studies have shown that semaglutide can cause significant weight loss in people with obesity. In one study, people who took semaglutide lost an average of 13.8% of their body weight over 6 to 8 weeks, while those in the placebo group lost an average of 1.8%.
- Sustained weight loss: In some studies, the weight loss caused by semaglutide has been found to be sustained over time. This suggests that semaglutide may be a useful option for long-term weight management.
- Improved blood sugar control: In addition to causing weight loss, semaglutide has been shown to be effective at improving glycemic control in people with diabetes. This can be beneficial for people with obesity who are at increased risk of developing diabetes.
It's important to note that semaglutide is not a weight loss medication and should not be used as such unless it has been specifically prescribed by a healthcare provider. Semaglutide should only be used as part of a comprehensive weight loss program that includes a healthy diet and regular physical activity.
You must continue to exercise, eat a well-balanced diet (HIGH protein / LOW CHOs), reduce your alcohol consumption, and follow-up with your healthcare provider annually.