Semaglutide for weight loss: How it works
Key highlights
- Semaglutide is a popular and effective GLP-1 receptor agonist, manufactured by Novo Nordisk. It’s used for diabetes management and weight loss in individuals who are overweight or obese.
- Semaglutide works by targeting GLP-1 receptors in the brain that regulate appetite and slows down how quickly the stomach empties, making you feel fuller for longer.
- Semaglutide may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain health conditions, and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
- For the best results, use semaglutide alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise, and consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations and monitoring.
Did you know that nearly 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. are affected by obesity, and more than 38 million people are living with diabetes? These conditions are becoming more common and can lead to serious health problems.
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, known for its dual benefits: helping control blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes and supporting weight loss in people, with or without diabetes when used with diet and increased physical activity.
Semaglutide works for weight loss by mimicking the action of incretin, a natural gut hormone in the intestine, and targeting GLP-1 receptors in the brain that control appetite and slow down how quickly the stomach empties, making you feel fuller for longer. By increasing GLP-1 activity, semaglutide helps to reduce hunger and suppress appetite.
Semaglutide has become an important medical breakthrough, offering new hope for people looking to manage their weight better. Learn how semaglutide works to aid weight loss and manage type 2 diabetes. Discover its effects on appetite, blood sugar, and overall health.
What is semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a medication that helps your body control blood sugar. It mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1 which helps control blood sugar by making insulin release when you eat, which lowers blood sugar. GLP-1 also slows down how fast food moves through your stomach (gastric emptying), making you feel full longer, and helps control appetite by lowering blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss.
It’s available under the brand names Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus. Wegovy is FDA-approved for chronic weight management in obese and overweight patients. Ozempic and Rybelsus are prescription drugs approved for type 2 diabetes patients.
Semaglutide injections (Wegovy and Ozempic) are injected once weekly and are popular due to their long-lasting action and effectiveness in weight loss and blood sugar control, as demonstrated in clinical trials.
Who can take semaglutide?
Semaglutide is primarily used to help manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes (Ozempic and Rybelsus)) and is also prescribed for weight loss (Wegovy) in individuals who are overweight or obese, particularly when diet and exercise alone have not been effective.
Semaglutide injections are a good option for people looking for medical help with weight management. They’re especially suitable for those who are overweight or obese and may also have health issues like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.
Wegovy is FDA-approved for chronic weight management in combination with diet and exercise for:
- People with obesity (with a body mass index of 30 or higher), or;
- People who are overweight (with a body mass index of 27 or higher) with at least one weight-related condition such as heart disease, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or type 2 diabetes, or;
- Adolescents 12 years and older with an initial BMI at or above the 95th percentile for age and sex.
Wegovy is also FDA-approved for reducing the risk of serious heart problems in adults with obesity or overweight.
Ozempic was FDA-approved in 2017 for controlling blood glucose levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. Rybelsus was the first oral GLP-1 medication FDA-approved in 2019 for adults with type 2 diabetes.
These medications are suitable for adults who need help controlling their blood sugar or losing weight. However, they might not be right for everyone.
People with certain health conditions who cannot take semaglutide include:
- Those with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
- Gallbladder disease
- Severe kidney problems
Semaglutide should not be taken together with any other GLP-1 medication. Semaglutide is usually not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women because there isn’t enough safety information available to date.
How does semaglutide work for weight loss?
Semaglutide (Wegovy) can lead to significant weight loss in people with excess weight and obesity when used with lifestyle changes. Ozempic and Rybelsus are not approved for weight loss.
In a 68-week clinical trial, participants on Wegovy lost an average of 14.9% body weight compared to 2.4% in the placebo group.
Semaglutide works for weight loss in several ways:
1. Mimics the action of GLP-1
Semaglutide works by mimicking the GLP-1 receptor, a natural hormone that releases insulin, reduces glucagon and controls appetite, so you eat less. Together, these effects make it easier to lose weight when used with a healthy diet and exercise.
2. Increases insulin release
Semaglutide helps regulate blood sugar by triggering insulin release from the pancreas post meals.
When you eat, your blood sugar goes up and semaglutide tells your pancreas to release more insulin. Insulin lowers blood sugar by allowing your cells to take in the sugar from your blood.
By only releasing insulin when needed (after eating), semaglutide keeps blood sugar steady and prevents spikes which is good for type 2 diabetes and overall health.
3. Decreases glucagon secretion
Semaglutide lowers blood sugar by reducing glucagon production, a hormone produced by the pancreas that tells the liver to release stored sugar into the blood which raises blood sugar levels.
By suppressing glucagon, semaglutide prevents the liver from releasing too much sugar and keeps blood sugar more stable after eating.
This helps with blood sugar control and weight loss by stopping the body from storing excess sugar as fat, creating a better environment for burning fat and losing weight.
4. Slows gastric emptying
Semaglutide helps with weight loss by slowing down how fast food moves through the stomach and into the intestine, also known as gastric emptying. This means you feel full and less hungry for longer, and eat less or snack less between meals.
5. Targets the brain
Semaglutide works by targeting the GLP-1 receptors in the brain to reduce food cravings and increase fullness. By targeting these brain signals, semaglutide suppresses appetite, controls hunger and satiety.
This makes you less hungry and more full after eating so you eat less and are less likely to give in to food cravings, which can support weight loss.
6. Reduces calorie-intake
Semaglutide lowers calorie intake by making you feel full for longer and reduces your food intake. By acting on the brain to increase satiety and slow down gastric emptying, it controls your appetite, so you eat fewer calories.
How does semaglutide work for type 2 diabetes?
Semaglutide helps control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It works by stimulating the pancreas to release insulin, a hormone that helps lower blood sugar after meals and reducing glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar. Additionally, it slows down the emptying of the stomach, which helps regulate how quickly sugar enters the bloodstream after meals.
Ozempic (injectable form) and Rybelsus (oral form) are approved to be used along with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes.
Another key benefit of semaglutide is that it has a lower risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) compared to other diabetes medications. This is because semaglutide only increases insulin release when blood sugar is elevated, meaning it doesn’t cause insulin to drop too low when blood sugar is already normal. This makes it safer for people with type 2 diabetes, especially when used with other medications or insulin.
1. Regulates blood sugar levels
Semaglutide mimics a hormone called GLP-1, which is produced in the gut after eating, it lowers blood sugar by stimulating insulin production in the pancreas, reducing sugar production in the liver. This helps keep blood sugar levels more stable between meals.
2. Reduces the risk of cardiovascular events
Studies show semaglutide (Wegovy and Ozempic) reduces the risk of cardiovascular events like stroke and heart attack.
This is because it burns more fat and uses more energy. It also improves how the body handles fat which means better cholesterol and triglycerides.
Semaglutide administration
Semaglutide is available in two forms: a once-a-week injectable form (Ozempic, Wegovy) and a once-daily oral form (Rybelsus), both of which support weight loss and manage type 2 diabetes.
Healthcare providers typically start patients on a low dose of semaglutide. Semaglutide injection (Ozempic, Wegovy) has five available dosages. The starting dose is usually 0.25 mg once a week for 4 weeks. Oral semaglutide (Rybelsus) has three available dosages. The starting dose is usually 3 mg daily for 4 weeks. Depending on how the patient tolerates side effects, the dose can be gradually increased to reach a maintenance dose.
Correct administration and using the right dosage of semaglutide are important for the medication to work well. Semaglutide injection is injected under the skin (subcutaneously) once weekly using a pen-like device. This makes it easy to use, so you can take the injections with little pain.
Here’s how to use the pen:
- Prepare the pen: Take off the cap and attach the needle. Make sure the solution is clear.
- Dose: Turn the dial to your dose.
- Inject: Clean the area where you’ll inject (usually your belly or thigh). Put the needle in at a 90-degree angle and press the button to inject. Hold the pen for 6 seconds to get the full dose.
- Throw away the needle: After using the pen, remove the needle and throw it away in a sharps container.
Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions to make sure the medication works properly.
Semaglutide side effects
Semaglutide is a safe and effective medication used for weight loss and managing type 2 diabetes, but it can cause gastrointestinal side effects. These symptoms usually improve over time as your body gets used to the medication.
Common side effects of semaglutide include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Decreased appetite
- Indigestion
- Belching
- Constipation
- Headache
Semaglutide can cause serious side effects such as pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, changes in vision, allergic reactions, and kidney issues.
Semaglutide can also cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially if you are taking other diabetes medications. Over time, this can lead to episodes of hypoglycemia, which needs careful management, so monitor your blood sugar levels regularly.
Some people may have mild reactions at the injection site, like redness or irritation, although these are usually mild and go away on their own. Rotate the injection site to minimize the risk of injection site reactions.
It is essential to be aware of these potential side effects and seek medical advice from your healthcare professional if you notice any concerning symptoms.
Is semaglutide right for you?
Semaglutide is a prescription medication, which means it should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
While it can be very effective for managing type 2 diabetes and supporting weight loss in people with obesity or overweight, it’s not suitable for everyone.
You should not take semaglutide if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have a personal or family history of certain thyroid cancers (like medullary thyroid carcinoma) or a condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome
- You have a history of pancreatitis or other severe gastrointestinal issues
Before starting semaglutide, talk to your healthcare provider to make sure it is the right choice for you. They’ll check your medical history, current health, and treatment goals to decide if it’s the best option.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for semaglutide to work?
Semaglutide can start working within a week but the full effect on blood sugar and weight loss may take a few weeks. Most people start seeing improvements after 4-6 weeks.
How much weight can you lose on semaglutide?
With semaglutide, many people lose 5-15% of their body weight. Actual results vary depending on diet, exercise, dosage strength and individual response. The medication is intended to be taken long-term and benefits are typically seen over a longer period of time.
Is semaglutide covered by insurance?
Semaglutide may be covered if you have type 2 diabetes or obesity, but coverage varies by plan. Coverage is less likely if you’ve been prescribed the medication for weight loss. Check with your insurance to see if it’s covered and associated costs (copay or coinsurance costs).
What are the long-term effects of semaglutide?
The long-term effects of semaglutide can include improved blood sugar control, weight loss, and a reduced risk of cardiovascular events.
Can I take semaglutide with other medications?
Yes, semaglutide can be taken with other medications, but it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider first. They can make sure the combination is safe and won’t cause any issues, especially with other diabetes treatments. Semaglutide should not be taken with other GLP-1 drugs.
Can semaglutide be used for type 1 diabetes or other conditions?
Semaglutide is not approved for use in type 1 diabetes, as it doesn’t work for people who don’t produce any insulin. It’s approved for type 2 diabetes and weight management, but it’s not recommended for other conditions unless prescribed by a doctor.
How does semaglutide compare to similar medications like tirzepatide and liraglutide?
Semaglutide, tirzepatide, and liraglutide are all GLP-1 receptor agonists that help manage high blood sugar and support weight loss, but tirzepatide works on two hormones (GLP-1 and GIP) and may lead to more weight loss compared to semaglutide and liraglutide.
Tips for maximizing benefits with semaglutide
To get the most out of semaglutide, follow these tips:
- Dosage and administration: Make sure to follow the prescribed dosing schedule. If you’re using the injectable form, take it once a week at the same time each week. If you’re using the oral form, take it once daily as directed, usually on an empty stomach.
- Combine with a healthy lifestyle: Semaglutide works best when paired with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Focus on balanced meals and staying active to help control blood sugar and support weight loss.
- Track progress and work with your healthcare provider: Keep track of your weight, blood sugar levels, and any side effects. Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider will help adjust your treatment plan for the best results.
Bottom line
Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus) is a game changer for type 2 diabetes and weight loss in people who are obese or overweight when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
It works by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone to control blood sugar, suppress appetite and slow stomach emptying resulting in weight loss and reducing cardiovascular events.
While effective, it’s not for everyone and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially if you have certain health conditions.
Use semaglutide with a healthy diet and regular exercise, and track your health. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance and they can help you decide if it’s right for you.
