If you’ve ever tried to lose a significant amount of weight, you know it’s never quite as simple as the antiquated “calories in, calories out” advice. In reality, your energy level, appetite, stressors, hormones, metabolism, and other factors influence how easy or difficult it is to lose excess body fat. When diet and exercise alone aren’t enough, semaglutide injections overseen by a medical professional could help you achieve a healthy weight.
What Is Semaglutide?
Sold under the brand names Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Rybelsus®, semaglutide is a prescription medication for type 2 diabetes and long-term weight management. Available in injectable and tablet form, this drug works by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) which the body naturally produces to regulate hunger and blood sugar levels.
Semaglutide helps your body produce more insulin when your blood sugar levels are too high. It also works in the GI tract by slowing gastric motility, which means food stays in your stomach longer and prolongs the feeling of fullness. For that reason, it can be a great weight loss aid.
Can I Take Semaglutide if I Am Not Diabetic?
Semaglutide was developed as an antidiabetic medication, but you don’t need to have type 2 diabetes to experience the benefits. A randomized controlled trial from 2021 found semaglutide was an effective weight loss drug for overweight and obese non-diabetic adults. It may also lower your risk of obesity-related conditions like heart attack and stroke.
How Do I Use Semaglutide for Weight Loss?
Semaglutide can be administered subcutaneously or orally. The dose will vary depending on the brand and the individual. Typically, adults taking Wegovy for chronic weight management inject 2.4 mg once weekly. However, adjustments can be made as needed under medical guidance.
What Should I Do if I Forget a Dose of Semaglutide?
While the following recommendations may be helpful, you should ask your provider for specific instructions. If you miss a Wegovy injection, you can take the missed dose as soon as possible as long as your next dose is more than two days away. In this instance, please speak to an APEX Anti Aging Solutions Team Member. Otherwise, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. You shouldn’t double your injections to make up for a missed one.
What Side Effects Can This Medication Cause?
Semaglutide is a safe and effective medication for many people struggling with weight loss or type 2 diabetes management. However, potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heartburn, constipation, or burping.
In rare cases, semaglutide can cause serious side effects, some of which may require medical attention. That said, adverse reactions are usually limited to mild gastrointestinal upset.
Contact Us About Semaglutide
If you’re interested in semaglutide to help with weight loss, contact our office. Our provider can determine if it’s a good match for you.