Does Semaglutide Work For Weight Loss?
Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which have been studied for their role in appetite regulation and metabolism.
However, compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved, and its effects have not been evaluated for weight loss. It must be prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider.
According to a Guardian article, half of the population on earth can face the overweight problem.
Many are suffering from the related issues right now. Also, the problem piles up as many aren’t even aware of them.
The good news is you have countless options to get rid of the extra burden and be light.
There’s Healthy Eating, exercise, and lifestyle management.
For insulin regulation, this thing can be a great way to lose weight. The drug goes into your body. Then, it commands all the organs related to hunger and satiety to do stuff that can help shed weight. However, you have to get permission from a healthcare professional before buying one!
⚠️ Caution: Always consult your doctor first. Never purchase Semaglutide unless prescribed!
What Is Semaglutide?
An injectable receptor agonist.
Semaglutide is mainly an anti-diabetic and secondarily an anti-obesity medication.
Once injected, the solution goes inside your body. Then, it binds to a cell receptor and mimics the action of 30-amino acid peptide AKA GLP-1.
Short for Glucagon-like peptide-1, a naturally occurring hormone, it helps manage:
- Blood sugar levels
- Appetite
Your intestine releases this GLP-1 after meals. Such a hormone tells your body to increase insulin production to lower blood sugar.
⚠️ Caution: FDA-approved semaglutide is used for diabetes management and weight-related conditions. However, compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved.
Medical Uses
Weight Loss
Obesity issue?
Some studies suggest that GLP-1 receptor agonists may influence appetite and digestion. However, compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved for weight loss, and individual results may vary.
Diabetes Management
Victim of type 2 diabetes?
The solution helps control blood sugar levels in individuals whose pancreas makes less insulin.
How Does Semaglutide Promote Weight Loss?
⚠️ Caution: Always consult your doctor first. Never purchase Semaglutide unless prescribed.
Appetite Regulation
Its primary role in weight loss is its power to suppress your appetite.
This effect works by activating GLP-1 receptors in critical regions of the brain responsible for hunger and satiety.
The areas include:
- Insula cortex
- Hypothalamus
They regulate hunger, appetite control, and energy expenditure. So, as you inject the solution, Semaglutide activates the functions of GLP-1 there. The medication signals to the brain that your body is well-fed.
This works to:
- Reduce hunger feeling and your desire to eat. Result: You avoid overeating.
- Increase the feelings of satiety. Result: You control food intake.
All these eventually help improve weight control.
Delaying Gastric Emptying
Targets the stomach.
Semaglutide has a major influence on that organ. It decelerates the process of the stomach emptying the food into the intestines. This makes you feel full for too long.
The results—
- Prolonged Satiety
- Reduced Meal Frequency
When the drug stimulates your stomach to empty more slowly, the food stays in the organ for too long.
- According to a study from the dom-pubs online library, It is about 30% longer for 4 hours.
This makes you feel you’re full which lasts way long after meals.
Moreover, because of the slow gastric process, you feel less inclined to snack between meals. This helps a lot in weight loss.
Modulation of Insulin and Glucagon
Good changes in hormones.
Semaglutide commands two hormones to work the way they’re supposed to. Insulin and Glucagon.
The medication controls blood sugar levels and body weight, which can be a great benefit for Type 2 diabetes patients. A study has also witnessed this.
Then again, always talk to your doctor first before doing anything.
Insulin Secretion
Insulin, a hormone, helps cells absorb glucose to store energy. It lowers spiked sugar levels after meals.
Semaglutide here triggers your pancreas to release insulin which manages glucose concentration.
This reduces cravings for high-sugar foods and eventually aids in overall weight management.
You can use it to maintain a calorie deficit because of this function. This will further support weight loss efforts.
Glucagon Suppression
Glucagon, another hormone, typically promotes glucose releases from the liver and shoots up glucagon levels.
Semaglutide lowers them and helps your body control sugar. This prevents spikes and crashes.
Moreover, the regulation also decreases appetite, making it easier to avoid overeating.
Consequently, it supports weight loss goals.
Energy Expenditure and Fat Metabolism
Role in metabolism.
Recent PubMed research says that semaglutide may help influence metabolism. This means it can positively affect how your body uses energy and metabolizes fat.
How?
A study mentions that GLP-1 medication may improve energy expenditure to some extent.
This can cause:
- Extra caloric burning and
- Decreased fat accumulation
[Source: Molecular mechanisms of semaglutide and liraglutide as a therapeutic option for obesity]
Moreover, experts also highlight that it can influence lipid mobilization. This triggers your body to use the fat stores more efficiently for energy. Consequently, it helps change body composition.
This means–
- Reduced body fat
- Increased muscle mas
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Semaglutide?
Adults Between 18-79
Victims who are between 18 and 79 can consider taking Semaglutide. However, the candidates must visit the doctor and know if they’re eligible to have it.
Semaglutide can have side effects if taken without consultation. This can put your health at risk.
Experts may suggest the medication to some children of around 12 or more. Then again, the kids can take them only if doctors permit.
Ones With Overweight and Obesity
Check your Body Mass Index (BMI).
FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonists are used for weight-related conditions. However, compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved for weight loss and should only be used under the supervision of a licensed provider.
This is what the FDA recommends.
- 27 kg/m2: Overweight
- 30+ kg/m2: Obese
Both conditions refer to excess body weight— even more than what’s considered healthy for your height.
Moreover, having over 27 kg/m2 of BMI may bring several other health problems. It can be–
- Cardiovascular disease
- Hyper tension
- Joint problems
- PCOS
- Diabetes
So, if you have overweight issues with one or more of these conditions, then try semaglutide. Before that, ask a doctor if you can use it.
Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Are you a sufferer of poor insulin production?
The drug also tries to prevent other risks associated with elevated glucose. These include—
- Cardiovascular Risk Reduction
- Kidney Disorders
- Nerve Issues like Neuropathy
Who Should Avoid Semaglutide?
⚠️ Caution: If you have any of these conditions, consult your healthcare provider before considering treatment. Compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved, and safety data is limited.
Administration and Dosage
Better to ask the doctor about this. They’ll provide better and safer guidelines regarding Semaglutide administration and dosage.
However, typically, you administer Semaglutide with a subcutaneous injection once a week. The once-weekly pattern is convenient which helps you follow the treatment easily.
Note that the treatment starts with a low dose. Once your body adapts to the solution, increase it gradually over several weeks. This works to minimize potential side effects.
After the first month, increase the dose until you reach the max level—
- The recommended maintenance level is: 2.4 mg/week
⚠️ Caution: Dosing should be determined by a licensed provider. Compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved, and individual needs may vary.
Stick to the prescribed dosing schedule. That way, you can–
- Stay safe
- Expect to get the desired weight-loss outcomes
- Manage side effects
Potential Side Effects and Management
6 Common Side Effects
Let’s highlight some negative impacts of semaglutide.
1. Nausea
A very common one. This may happen in the initial doses. It’s like the icky, queasy feeling in your stomach.
Solutions
- Eat bland foods
- Have citrus juice or lemon
- Drink plenty of water or ginger tea
2. Vomiting
Some may throw up, especially at the beginning.
Solutions
- Take rest properly
- Have citrus juice or lemon
- Avoid strong odors
3. Diarrhea or Constipation
An upset stomach equals frequent trips to the bathroom.
Not diarrhea? Then it might be constipation where you may have fewer than three bowel movements a week.
Solutions
- Drink lots of water
- Eat fruits, vegetables and whole grains
- Avoid dairy or high-fiber foods for some time
4. Fatigue
You may feel sluggish or less energetic as your bodies work hard to adjust to the solution.
Solutions
- Prioritize sleep
- Engage in light exercise
- Hydrate properly and eat well
5. Abdominal Pain
This means you may feel discomfort and cramps in your belly.
Solutions
- Apply a warm compress to the abdomen
- Try gentle stretching and walking
- Avoid heavy or greasy meals
6.Loss of Appetite
Since the medication helps you feel fuller, you may not want to eat at all.
Solutions
- Focus on small meals
- Eat nutrient-dense foods
- Try smoothie
⚠️ Caution: Speak with a healthcare provider about potential risks, as compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved.
3 Simple Strategies To Mitigate Adverse Effects
1. Start Slow
Your doctor may start your treatment with a super low dose depending on the condition. Then, gradually increase it.
That way, your body gets time to adapt to the medication and won’t feel overwhelmed.
2. Eat Smaller Meals
Consume smaller, balanced meals all day long. Avoid bigger and greasy meals. Yes, you can have lots of fruits and veggies.
3. Hydrate Yourself
Drink lots of water. At least 2 to 4 liters a day. This helps with digestion and fight nausea.
When To Seek A Doctor?
- Persistent nausea and vomiting— that disrupts your daily life.
- Severe cramps that seem to never improve.
- Signs of allergic reaction— rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Unusual Semaglutide symptoms like— dizziness or fainting.
Duration of Treatment: How Long Should You Use Semaglutide?
Roughly 12 to 24 months.
That’s the recommended timeline for Semaglutide use.
However, this varies based on individual goals, health needs, severity of condition, and other factors.
If you initially want to achieve weight loss, then use it for around 16 weeks.
For long-term maintenance, consult an expert and assess periodically.
⚠️ Caution: Talk to your healthcare provider before taking any step.
Short-term vs. Long-term: Understand Differences
⚠️ Caution: Talk to your healthcare provider before taking any step as compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved.
Role of lifestyle modifications
- Adopt a healthy diet: Include whole foods, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Regular activities: Try at least 150 minutes of moderate identity exercise each week.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does semaglutide work to lose weight?
It’s a multi-tasker. Once inside your body, the semaglutide signals different organs and brains to reduce appetite, slow gastric emptying, and increase insulin secretion. This eventually helps you lose weight.
How long does it take for semaglutide to kick in?
3-4 weeks to years. Many users may notice weight loss benefits after 3-4 weeks of semaglutide injection. Meanwhile, it may take months to years to see long-term effects.
What is the mechanism of action of semaglutide?
Works like a hormone. Semaglutide mimics the GLP-1, a hormone in our body. This helps—
- Reduce hunger
- Slow gastric emptying
- Increase insulin secretion
How does semaglutide work for insulin resistance and PCOS?
Semaglutide targets the symptoms and underlying issues that insulin resistance leaves, including PCOS. It lets your cells better utilize glucose for energy. This helps improve insulin sensitivity and tackles issues related to PCOS.
How does semaglutide work for diabetes?
By mimicking GLP-1. Semaglutide works like the hormone that the small intestine makes. It stimulates insulin release from the pancreas which helps our body produce more insulin when needed. That’s how it works for diabetes.
Disclosure: This blog is for informational purposes only. Compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved, and this blog does not constitute medical advice. Speak with a licensed healthcare provider before starting treatment.
