How Semaglutide Works:

 

Semaglutide works by activating GLP-1 receptors in the body, which have several key effects:

​

• Increased Insulin Secretion: In response to meals, semaglutide stimulates the release of insulin, which helps lower blood sugar levels. This is particularly important for people with type 2 diabetes, who may have impaired insulin secretion.

• Decreased Glucagon Secretion: Glucagon is a hormone that increases blood sugar levels by signaling the liver to release glucose. Semaglutide reduces glucagon release, helping to lower blood sugar levels.

• Slows Gastric Emptying: Semaglutide slows the rate at which the stomach empties after eating, which helps increase feelings of fullness and satiety. This can lead to reduced appetite and, over time, weight loss.

• Improves Beta-Cell Function: Over time, semaglutide can help improve the function of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, which is beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.

​

Uses of Semaglutide:

​

• Type 2 Diabetes:Semaglutide is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes to help improve blood sugar control. It is typically prescribed in addition to diet and exercise, and can be used alongside other diabetes medications.

• It has been shown to effectively lower HbA1c (a measure of long-term blood sugar control), reduce body weight, and improve cardiovascular outcomes in people with diabetes.

​

Weight Loss:

​

• Wegovy is a brand name for semaglutide that has been specifically approved by the FDA for chronic weight management. It is prescribed for people who are either overweight (BMI ≥ 27) with at least one weight-related health condition (such as hypertension or type 2 diabetes), or those with obesity (BMI ≥ 30) without additional health conditions.

• Clinical studies have shown that semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss—patients may lose an average of 15-20% of their body weight over a period of several months, making it one of the most effective medications for weight management.

• Cardiovascular Health:Semaglutide has been found to have benefits for cardiovascular health, including a reduction in the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death in people with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease. 

 

​Forms of Semaglutide:

 

• Semaglutide is available in several forms:Injectable Form (Subcutaneous): Semaglutide is commonly administered as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous) once a week. It comes in pre-filled pens that are easy to use and can be administered at home. The usual dosing schedule for diabetes is weekly, while for weight loss (Wegovy), the dose is gradually increased over several weeks to reduce side effects.

• Oral Form: An oral version of semaglutide, marketed as Rybelsus, is available for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. This form is taken once a day, but it is important to note that the oral form requires specific instructions, such as taking the medication on an empty stomach and waiting 30 minutes before eating or drinking.
  ​

Dosage:

 

• For weight loss: The dose for weight loss (Wegovy) is gradually increased, starting at 0.25 mg per week, increasing every 4 weeks to the target dose of 2.4 mg per week.

​

Side Effects of Semaglutide:

 

While semaglutide is generally well-tolerated, it can cause some side effects, especially in the early stages of treatment. Common side effects include:

​

• Nausea: This is one of the most common side effects and is often temporary, especially during the dose escalation phase.

• Vomiting and diarrhea: Gastrointestinal issues can occur, especially when starting the medication or increasing the dose.

• Decreased appetite: This effect contributes to weight loss and is one of the reasons why semaglutide is used for weight management.

• Abdominal pain: Some people experience discomfort in the stomach area.

​

Serious side effects (though rare) include:

​​​

• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).

• Kidney problems.

• Thyroid cancer risk: There has been a concern about a possible increased risk of thyroid cancer (specifically medullary thyroid carcinoma), although this has been primarily observed in animal studies. People with a family history of thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2) should not use semaglutide.

• Allergic reactions: Severe allergic reactions, although rare, can occur.

​

Contraindications and Precautions:

 

• Pregnancy: Semaglutide is not recommended during pregnancy. Women of childbearing age should discuss contraception options with their healthcare provider while on the medication.

• Breastfeeding: There is limited data on whether semaglutide passes into breast milk, so it's generally recommended to avoid it during breastfeeding unless deemed necessary by a healthcare provider.

• Personal or Family History of Thyroid Cancer: People with a history of thyroid cancer or medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) should avoid semaglutide.

 

How Effective Is Semaglutide for Weight Loss?

 

For Weight Loss: Clinical studies have shown that semaglutide can help people lose 15-20% of their body weight, which is a significant reduction. Many people also experience a reduction in appetite and cravings, contributing to better adherence to a calorie-restricted diet.