Medications

Semaglutide: What You Need to Know

What is Semaglutide? Semaglutide is a medication originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes. It has also been found effective for weight loss, even in individuals who don’t have diabetes. Semaglutide helps with weight loss by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1, which regulates appetite and food intake.

How Does Semaglutide Work? Semaglutide helps with weight loss by:

1. Reducing Appetite: It makes you feel full sooner and longer, which can decrease your overall food intake.

2. Slowing Gastric Emptying: It slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach, helping you stay satisfied.

How is Semaglutide Taken? Semaglutide can be administered in two forms:

1. Injection:

• Form: It’s given as an injection under the skin (subcutaneously).

• Frequency: Typically once a week.

• Process: You’ll start with a lower dose, which may be gradually increased.

2. Oral:

• Form: It is available as an oral tablet.

• Frequency: Usually taken once daily.

• Process: Taken by mouth, more convenient for some people compared to injections.

What Can You Expect?

1. Weight Loss: Many people experience significant weight loss with semaglutide. Weight loss results can vary, with many losing around 5-15% of their body weight.

2. Side Effects: Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain. These side effects are generally mild and tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medication.

3. Long-Term Use: For optimal results, semaglutide should be used alongside a healthy diet and regular physical activity.

Who Should Use Semaglutide? Semaglutide is typically recommended for adults who's:

• Struggling with obesity or overweight, particularly if other weight loss methods haven’t been successful.

• Ready to make lifestyle changes, including improving diet and increasing physical activity.

Important Considerations:

1. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Before starting semaglutide, discuss your health history and any other medications you’re taking with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s a suitable option for you.

2. Monitor for Side Effects: Keep track of any side effects you experience and report them to your healthcare provider.

How to Get Started: If semaglutide seems like a good fit for you, your healthcare provider will help you through the process of starting the medication, whether via injection or oral tablet. They will provide guidance on how to use it, how to monitor your progress, and how to manage any potential side effects.