What is Semaglutide Injection?
Semaglutide is a medication that belongs to a class called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, or GLP-1 RAs. It works by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which the gut releases in response to food intake. One of GLP-1’s roles is to stimulate the body to produce more insulin, which helps lower blood sugar (glucose) levels. This effect has made semaglutide a widely used medication for managing Type 2 diabetes for over 15 years.
In higher doses, GLP-1 also influences brain areas responsible for appetite control and feelings of fullness. For people who are overweight or obese, semaglutide, combined with diet and exercise, has been shown to support significant weight loss, along with potential reductions in the risks for cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
Using Semaglutide Injections for Weight Loss
Currently, semaglutide is FDA-approved for weight loss under the brand name Wegovy. The standard weight-loss dose is 2.4 milligrams, given as a weekly subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. However, due to high interest in semaglutide for weight loss, healthcare providers sometimes prescribe other semaglutide brands, such as Ozempic or Rybelsus, for weight management on an off-label basis.
With demand for weight loss treatments increasing, access to semaglutide has occasionally been challenging, especially for those who rely on the medication to manage Type 2 diabetes.
How Effective is Semaglutide for Weight Loss in Non-Diabetics?
Compared to other appetite-suppressing medications, semaglutide has shown exceptional effectiveness. An early study of 2,000 obese adults revealed that, over 68 weeks, participants using semaglutide with a diet and exercise program achieved remarkable results. Half of these individuals lost 15% of their body weight, while nearly a third lost 20%. Those who focused on lifestyle changes alone lost an average of about 2.4% of their body weight.
Other studies have produced similar results, though they also show that some weight may be regained if the medication is discontinued. Therefore, while semaglutide is a powerful tool for managing obesity, sustained weight loss usually requires ongoing lifestyle changes.
Potential Side Effects of Semaglutide Injections
Common side effects of semaglutide tend to be mild, especially when weighed against the health risks of overweight and obesity. Some individuals may experience:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Gastrointestinal issues (e.g., diarrhea, constipation, gas)
- Headaches
- Stomach-related symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, pain, bloating)
Gastrointestinal side effects are most frequently reported when starting semaglutide, though these symptoms can often be minimized by starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it.
Who Should Consider (or Avoid) Semaglutide for Weight Loss?
The FDA recommends Wegovy for weight loss if a person meets one of these criteria:
- Body mass index (BMI) of 27 kg/m² or greater, along with at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol
- BMI of 30 kg/m² or greater
Semaglutide should generally be avoided by individuals with:
- A history of medullary thyroid cancer
- Gallbladder disease
- A history of pancreatitis
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)
For anyone considering semaglutide for weight management, the first step should be consulting with a primary care physician. A doctor familiar with your medical history can determine whether semaglutide is suitable for you and help you explore safe and effective weight-loss options. If you have diabetes and are taking other medications, your doctor can also guide you on possible safe combinations with semaglutide.