On June 4th, 2021, the FDA gave the green light to a new medicine for losing weight. This new treatment is not just showing potential; it has been proven to help with weight loss using a drug called Semaglutide Weight Loss Diet.
On average, 70% of adults in the U.S. carry extra weight. Carrying too much weight brings lots of health problems. But, losing just 5-10% of your body weight by eating better and moving more can lower the risk of heart problems.
To put it simply, Semaglutide, whether it’s Wegovy or Ozempic, helps the body use insulin better. This means it burns calories and fat, giving you more energy. Semaglutide is a kind of peptide that acts like a hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1). This hormone works on the brain, controlling hunger and how much we eat. By managing blood sugar levels, reducing spikes, and curbing cravings, Semaglutide keeps energy levels steady. You take Semaglutide with a shot under your skin, usually once a week. If necessary, the dose might be increased after a month.
1. GLP-1 Receptor Activation: Semaglutide binds to and activates the GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas and other target tissues, mimicking the effects of the natural GLP-1 hormone.
2. Blood Sugar Regulation: By activating GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas, semaglutide stimulates the release of insulin in response to high blood sugar levels. Insulin helps transport glucose into cells, lowering blood sugar levels.
3. Suppression of Glucagon Release: Semaglutide also reduces the release of glucagon, another pancreatic hormone. Glucagon raises blood sugar levels by promoting the release of glucose from the liver. By inhibiting glucagon, semaglutide helps control blood sugar levels.
4. Slowing Gastric Emptying: Semaglutide also slows down the emptying of the stomach, which can help regulate the absorption of nutrients, including glucose, in the digestive system. This action contributes to a feeling of fullness and reduced appetite.
5. Appetite Regulation: By acting on the brain’s appetite centers, semaglutide can promote a sense of fullness and reduce food intake.
Semaglutide Weight Loss Diet’s safety and effectiveness were checked in four trials lasting 68 weeks. Three of these trials were randomized, double-blind, and compared Semaglutide to a fake treatment (with a 16-week dose increase). The fourth trial was a randomized, double-blind study where patients either continued Semaglutide or switched to a fake treatment.
In these studies, over 2,600 people used Semaglutide for up to 68 weeks, and more than 1,500 people used a fake treatment. Results showed that adults dealing with weight issues and taking weekly Semaglutide lost around 14.9% of their weight in 68 weeks. In the same study, almost 70% of the participants reached a 10% weight loss, and 32% of them lost at least 20% of their starting weight.
To break it down, 1 out of 3 people in the program shed 20% of their body weight, and another 1 in 2 lost 15% of their body weight! On average, using Semaglutide alone can help lose 2-4 pounds every week.
Using Wegovy for over 12 weeks can bring about significant weight loss. When combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, the impact is even greater compared to just relying on diet and exercise alone.
For someone using Wegovy for a year, the total body weight loss could be 3 to 12% more than what they might achieve through diet and exercise alone. Although this percentage might not sound like a lot, shedding that weight can lead to important health improvements, like lowering blood pressure.
Lots of folks are taking Ozempic and Wegovy to manage type 2 diabetes and deal with obesity. However, some are using semaglutide “off-label” to try and lose weight. When we say “off-label,” we mean using a drug for something other than what the FDA has approved it for.
For instance, using Ozempic, which is officially approved for diabetes, to help with weight loss. Right now, due to a higher demand for these drugs, there’s a shortage of both Ozempic and Wegovy nationwide.
The most common side effect is weight loss, but some people may also experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, or constipation. In rare cases, there can be more serious risks, especially for those with low blood sugar, kidney issues, or a higher chance of allergic reactions.
This medication works well for people in good health with no kidney or liver problems who want to lose weight. It’s not insulin, so it’s not suitable for those with type 1 diabetes or those who develop diabetic ketoacidosis. If you’re considering Semaglutide injections, it’s essential to talk to the experts at Enduring Beauty to see if it’s the right choice for you.
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Since these prescriptions are meant for long-term use, people using semaglutide for weight loss might regain some or all of their weight if they stop taking the medication. However, those who make healthy lifestyle changes might be able to reduce weight gain.
Insurance coverage for semaglutide can differ based on your specific insurance plan and the reason it’s prescribed—whether for diabetes management or obesity treatment. Insurance policies can change, so it’s crucial to check with your insurance provider or healthcare team for the most current coverage information.
For diabetes management, some insurance plans may cover semaglutide as part of the treatment for type 2 diabetes. However, coverage might depend on certain criteria, like prior authorization or specific medical conditions meeting the insurance company’s guidelines.
As for obesity management, coverage for semaglutide may be more limited because it was initially developed as a diabetes medication. Still, some insurance plans might cover it for weight management if certain criteria are met, such as having a BMI above a specific threshold and evidence of unsuccessful weight loss attempts with other methods.
Reach out to your insurance provider and consult with your healthcare provider’s office to navigate the process of confirming coverage and, if needed, exploring alternative options.
Some people who want to use semaglutide but can’t get a prescription have tried other options, like pharmacies outside the U.S. or compounding pharmacies. However, it’s crucial to know that compounded versions of the drug aren’t approved by the FDA or Novo Nordisk, the company that owns semaglutide. Novo Nordisk is taking legal action against medical spas, weight loss clinics, and compounding pharmacies that allegedly sold unauthorized versions of the drug.
It’s important to emphasize that semaglutide is a prescription medication and should only be used under the supervision and guidance of a healthcare professional. How semaglutide is used, including the right dosage and monitoring, depends on the individual’s specific medical condition and needs. Like any medication, there might be potential side effects and interactions with other drugs, so regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are crucial.
Even though a weight loss drug might seem like a quick fix, it’s important to discuss a well-rounded approach with your healthcare provider to ensure lasting success.
At Enduring Beauty, we offer complete obesity medicine care with various options to help you achieve your weight loss goals.
Our strong, diverse team is here to support you on your weight loss journey. If you’re ready to begin, you can reach out to our team today.