Weight Loss Solution

The pursuit of a reliable and safe weight loss solution is ongoing, and semaglutide, the latest addition, continues to make waves even after its 2021 approval by the U.S. FDA.

Initially utilized as a diabetes treatment, this injectable drug has emerged as a breakthrough in chronic weight management. Semaglutide, joining the ranks after Saxenda’s 2014 approval, targets the 70% of American adults struggling with obesity or excess weight. Continuous research underscores its effectiveness for weight loss and emphasizes the need to view obesity as a chronic metabolic condition, advocating treatment beyond mere lifestyle changes. However, it’s crucial to note that semaglutide isn’t a cure-all and isn’t suitable for everyone.

FDA Approval

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted approval for Wegovy (semaglutide) injection at a 2.4 mg dosage, administered once weekly. This medication is aimed at chronic weight management in adults contending with obesity or being overweight, especially those with at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. It’s intended for use alongside a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity. This injectable solution marks the first FDA-approved drug for chronic weight management among adults dealing with obesity or being overweight since 2014. The drug’s prescription targets individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 kg/m2 or higher, who suffer from at least one weight-related ailment, or those with a BMI of 30 kg/m2 or higher.

“This approval offers adults with obesity or overweight a beneficial new treatment option to incorporate into a weight management program,” said John Sharretts, M.D., deputy director of the Division of Diabetes, Lipid Disorders, and Obesity in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “FDA remains committed to facilitating the development and approval of additional safe and effective therapies for adults with obesity or overweight.”

Statistics show that around 70% of American adults either have obesity or are overweight. This condition poses significant health risks, linking to leading causes of mortality such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It’s also associated with a heightened risk of specific cancer types. Studies indicate that shedding 5% to 10% of body weight through dietary adjustments and physical activity is linked to reduced cardiovascular disease risk in adults contending with obesity or being overweight.

What is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide falls under the class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). It mimics the gut-released GLP-1 hormone triggered by food intake.

Aside from prompting increased insulin production to lower blood sugar in diabetes treatment, higher GLP-1 levels interact with brain areas that regulate appetite and satiety. When paired with diet and exercise, semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss and reduce the risk of conditions like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease in overweight or obese individuals.

Semaglutide for Weight Loss

Presently, semaglutide is FDA-approved for weight loss under the brand name Wegovy. The usual dose for weight loss is 2.4 milligrams administered weekly as subcutaneous self-injections.

With growing interest, healthcare professionals are exploring methods to cope with the demand, sometimes prescribing other semaglutide brands like Ozempic and Rybelsus off-label (using an FDA-approved drug for a different purpose).

“Many individuals use semaglutide off-label for weight management,” Dr. Surampudi notes. “The high demand has caused shortages for those requiring this medication for diabetes management.”

Effectiveness of Semaglutide for Non-Diabetics

While previous anti-obesity medications aided in appetite suppression and weight loss, semaglutide operates at a different level. Early studies involving 2,000 obese adults showed that those using semaglutide alongside lifestyle changes lost significantly more weight compared to those without semaglutide. However, weight tends to return once semaglutide usage ceases.

“Fundamentally, managing obesity involves dietary and exercise changes,” says Dr. Surampudi. “But anti-obesity medications serve as an additional tool, depending on an individual’s clinical history.”

Side Effects of Semaglutide Injections

Typically, semaglutide side effects are mild compared to the complications associated with obesity. Users may experience dizziness, fatigue, gastrointestinal issues (like diarrhea or constipation), headaches, and stomach discomfort.

Gastrointestinal problems are common initially, but starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it might alleviate these side effects.

Who Should Consider Semaglutide for Weight Loss?

The FDA recommends Wegovy for weight loss if you have a BMI of 27kg/m2 or greater along with weight-related conditions like high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol, or a BMI of 30kg/m2 or higher.

Avoid semaglutide if you have a history of certain conditions like medullary thyroid cancer, gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2).

If considering semaglutide for weight loss, consult your primary care physician first. They can offer guidance based on your medical history, ensuring the best treatment for your condition. For those with diabetes, discussing acceptable combinations of diabetes medications with your physician is crucial.

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