The effort for weight loss is always tough. Individuals who want to get rid of their fat have to work extremely hard. Moreover, losing weight requires a huge amount of self-determination and a few disciplined choices.
Thanks to our modern-day solutions! Nowadays, some medications make the weight loss journey effortless. One such medication that has truly changed the game for obese people is Semaglutide.
The medication is available under the names Wegovy and Ozempic. Many celebrities have admitted to using this medication along with a proper diet to shed extra body fat.
However, it’s very important to understand the role of this medication in weight loss. Additionally, it’s necessary to learn how fast Semaglutide works for weight loss.
If you continue to read the blog, you will get to know everything about this medication and how it can help people with weight loss without putting much effort.
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It was originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes. However, it is now widely recognized for its effectiveness in promoting weight loss.
Semaglutide has been approved by the FDA for both diabetes management and chronic weight control in individuals with overweight conditions.
How Does Semaglutide Work?
Semaglutide works in different ways to show its effects. Here is a quick breakdown of how it works inside the human body.
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Mimics a Natural Hormone (GLP-1)
Semaglutide is a synthetic version of a natural hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). GLP-1 is normally released after eating. It helps regulate blood sugar, appetite, and digestion.
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Suppresses Appetite
Semaglutide acts on specific areas of the brain that control hunger, particularly the arcuate nucleus (ARC) of the hypothalamus.
It activates the GLP-1 receptors in this region, which stimulate appetite-suppressing neurons (POMC) and blocks hunger-promoting neurons (NPY/AgRP).
Additionally, it influences the paraventricular nucleus (PVN), which helps enhance feelings of fullness.
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Slows Down Stomach Emptying
Semaglutide helps with slow gastric emptying. This means that it delays the rate at which food travels from the stomach into the small intestine.
It extends the digestion time, which further helps maintain the feeling of fullness for longer after eating. The whole process helps reduce the urge to snack or consume additional calories between meals.
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Improves Blood Sugar Control
Semaglutide has been shown to improve blood sugar levels. It uses two mechanisms for this purpose: (1) it stimulates insulin secretion from the pancreas when blood glucose levels are high. (2) It suppresses the liver’s production of excess glucose. By doing so, Semaglutide helps maintain stable blood sugar levels after meals.
Who Can Take Semaglutide?
Since semaglutide is a medication, one should approach it carefully, only after consulting their doctor. Generally speaking, Semaglutide is approved for use in two primary populations:
1. Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes
Semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic and Rybelsus) is FDA-approved as a once-weekly or once-daily treatment for adults with type 2 diabetes. It is not indicated for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. [1]
2. Adults with Obesity or Overweight
Semaglutide (under the brand name Wegovy) is FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults with:
- A BMI ≥ 30 (classified as obesity), or
- A BMI ≥ 27 (overweight) with at least one weight-related condition such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidemia. [2]
Who Cannot Take Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is not meant for everyone. Individuals allergic to Semaglutide or any of its ingredients should not take it. Also, pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid it. Moreover, certain individuals with medical risks or contraindications should avoid this medication. Here is a list of who else should avoid taking Semaglutide:
1. People Who Have a Personal or Family History of Certain Thyroid Cancers
- Specifically: Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) [3].
2. People with a History of Pancreatitis
- Semaglutide may increase the risk of inflammation in the pancreas.
3. Children (Except in Specific Cases)
- Wegovy is FDA-approved for adolescents 12 years and older with obesity. [4] However, Ozempic and Rybelsus are not approved for anyone under 18.
4. Individuals with Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
- Semaglutide is not indicated for type 1 diabetes or the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis, as it does not replace insulin.
What are the Benefits of Semaglutide?
Semaglutide has helped various people lose weight. It has shown great benefits for individuals who cannot get rid of extra fat. Here are a few of its benefits:
- Promotes significant weight loss
- Improves blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes
- Reduces the risk of major cardiovascular events
- Supports better metabolic health
- Helps reduce food cravings and emotional eating
- Convenient once-weekly or once-daily dosing
- May reduce waist circumference and visceral fat
- Encourages long-term lifestyle changes through appetite control
Does Semaglutide Work the Same for Everyone?
No, Semaglutide does not work the same for everyone. While many people reported shedding weight using this medication, certain individuals may not get the results they want. That is because a few factors may intervene, including:
- Body weight and BMI at the start
- Dosage and adherence to the treatment
- Diet and physical activity
- Underlying medical conditions (e.g., insulin resistance, hormonal imbalances)
- Genetic differences and metabolism
- Psychological factors like stress or emotional eating
- Use of other medications
How Much Time Does Semaglutide Take to Work?
You’ll be a bit disappointed that Semaglutide may not work overnight. It takes time to show its effects. However, here is a table representing how much time it may take:
|
Timeline Result |
What to Expect |
|
Week 1 – 2 |
Appetite becomes low; reduced hunger and cravings |
|
Week 4 |
Initial weight loss becomes visible for a few individuals |
|
3 Months (12 Weeks) |
Steady weight loss in most users; improved satiety and portion control |
|
4 – 6 Months |
Peak effectiveness for weight loss and metabolic improvements |
Remember, this timeline may vary from person to person. And your healthcare provider can better tell you how long it will take for Semaglutide to show its results.
What Factors Can Affect The Results of Semaglutide?
Certain factors may influence Semaglutide results. A few of them are given below:
- Until the exact dose is reached, you will not get the results you want. Doctors may give you the doses in small amounts so that you do not encounter any side effects.
- If you are just taking Semaglutide and not giving attention to your diet and proper nutrients, you may not get the desired results. So, make sure to follow a proper diet!
- Exercise is very important. If you do not work out regularly or are not hitting the gym on and off, the results may be lacking!
- If you are not taking the doses regularly according to your doctor’s advice, you may not get effective results. Make sure you show consistency with your medication.
If you are taking antidepressants or other medications, they might interfere with the results. Additionally, issues like hypothyroidism, PCOS, or insulin resistance can slow progress.
Does the FDA Approve Semaglutide?
Yes, Semaglutide is FDA-approved for various medical uses. It is approved under the brand name Ozempic for managing type 2 diabetes. The oral form, named Rybelsus, is also approved for type 2 diabetes treatment.
Additionally, the FDA approved Wegovy, a higher-dose version of Semaglutide, in 2021 for chronic weight management in adults with obesity. It is also approved for weight-related conditions. It later extended its approval to adolescents aged 12 and older with obesity. [5]
Which Celebrities have used Semaglutide?
You’ll be surprised to know that a few celebrities have admitted to using this weight loss drug including,
- Amanda Bynes
- Tracy Morgan
- Elon Musk
- Remi Bader
- Sharon Osbourne
What are the Side Effects of Semaglutide?
Just like any other medication, Semaglutide also has some side effects. Here is a list of side effects that may be caused due to this medication.
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Indigestion
On the Whole:
The medication may show quick results for some. While it may take a long time for some individuals. Semaglutide helps you lose weight quickly if you combine it with a proper diet and exercise. However, every person has a different body type.
FAQs
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Can Semaglutide work without dieting?
Yes, Semaglutide does work without dieting. However, its results will not be significant. It is advisable to take this medication with a proper diet.
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What happens if I stop taking Semaglutide?
If you suddenly stop taking Semaglutide, you will gradually regain your weight. It can often increase your appetite, unless diet and exercise are maintained.
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Is weight loss from Semaglutide permanent?
Weight loss is not permanent without ongoing lifestyle changes. Most people regain weight if the medication is discontinued without other support.
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How much weight can I expect to lose?
Results may vary based on dosage, lifestyle habits, and individual response. However, most people lose around 5% to 15% of their body weight over several months with Semaglutide.
Reference Links
- and F. (2021, June 4). FDA Approves New Drug Treatment for Chronic Weight Management, First Since 2014. Prnewswire.com; Cision PR Newswire. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fda-approves-new-drug-treatment-for-chronic-weight-management-first-since-2014-301306223.html
- HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION. (n.d.). https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/209637s020s021lbl.pdf
- HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION. (n.d.). https://www.novo-pi.com/wegovy.pdf
- News details. (n.d.). Novo Nordisk. https://www.novonordisk-us.com/media/news-archive/news-details.html?id=151389
5. Kommu, S., & Whitfield, P. (2024, February 11). Semaglutide. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK603723/
