Obesity is an epidemic that is difficult to fight. No matter how much patients are told to exercise and diet, that just doesn’t work for everyone. Sometimes more extreme measures are necessary to see weight loss and improved health.
There are high hopes that a new treatment called Semaglutide will provide this for many overweight users. This is primarily a diabetes drug, but there are calls for expanded use in weight loss programs. So, what is semaglutide, how can it help, and what else do prospective users need to know.
What Is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a promising medication with the potential to help people with diabetes and obesity. Regular use of this drug can alter the release of insulin and suppression of glucagon to improve symptoms and potentially aid with weight loss. Studies so far are encouraging and the medication is now approved for use in weight loss programs. While there are some side effect risks and the need for injections, users could find that the benefits outweigh the negatives.
The Benefits Of Semaglutide
Semaglutide can be an effective diabetes treatment when used correctly. At a molecular level, the drug binds to receptors to increase the secretion of insulin and block glucagon. This should help to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the effect of the disease.
Diabetes can have severe life-limiting complications when not controlled by appropriate medication. This includes kidney issues, vision problems, sexual dysfunction, and cardiac issues. Regular and controlled use of semaglutide could help reduce the risks of those developing or help reduce the current impact.
There is also the potential for semaglutide to work as a weight-loss drug. A recent study cited in the New England Journal of Medicine shows significant reductions. 1961 adults with a BMI of 30 or more were split into two groups. One group took a 68-week course of semaglutide and the other a placebo. There were also lifestyle interventions. The group n semaglutide saw a mean reduction of 14.9% while the placebo group saw a mean reduction of 2.4%.
Elsewhere, a study cited by University College London showed that 75% of those using the drug lost more than 10% of their body weight. On top of that, over a third lost more than 20%. These numbers are impressive and show that with the right guidance and control, success is possible.
As a result, there are high hopes for semaglutide as a weight loss drug for those with morbid obesity that struggle to lose weight. It could be a game changer for those that have tried and failed with diet and exercise alone. It is also more appealing than going in for invasive permanent surgeries.
Potential Semaglutide Side Effects And Complications
The most common issues with this drug are reactions around the injection site, nausea, and fatigue. The redness or itching on the skin shouldn’t last long, and any tiredness and nausea should subside once the body gets used to the medication. However, if symptoms persist, users must consult a doctor. In some cases, that nausea may be accompanied by other gastrointestinal issues
Occassiaionaly, there are more severe side effects such as changes in urination, vision, or blood sugar levels. Again, it is vital to talk to a doctor if this occurs. The case may be an interaction with other diabetes medication.
A more alarming story online right now is the link between semaglutide and thyroid cancer. There is a very small risk of causation here. However, it is important to remember that this drug has been cleared for use and is now even available via the NHS in the UK. Medical professionals feel that the risks are so minimal compared to the potential benefits that semaglutide is worth trying.
Another consideration is the risk of adverse effects from unsuitable products. It is important to check the liquid for any signs of discoloration or particles, which could indicate a bad batch. If in doubt, don’t use it.
How To Use Semaglutide: Dosage And Instructions
This medication is injected under the skin for the most effective form of administration. Users must do so once every 7 days under the skin on the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm.
Because of the nature of the subcutaneous pen injector, all patients must exercise due care when administering the drug. Where necessary, it may help if a trusted family member or partner takes control of the injections. For instance, some users may be keen to take the drug but weary of needles. Best practice states that users should clean the injection site with alcohol first and change location on a weekly basis to reduce the risk of skin damage. All users should receive guidance with their refills and not be afraid to ask questions.
It should also be noted that the use of these injections alone won’t be enough for significant weight loss. Users can’t keep up a sedentary lifestyle with lots of sugar and fast food in their diet. Those that find an effective lifestyle plan and use the drug each week could enjoy great results.
Work With SFL Medical Group For Semaglutide Treatment
This drug is available for use in partnership with SFL Medical Group as a liquid for subcutaneous injections. We can work with clients to provide regular dosages and support when we feel that this drug will be an effective solution. To sign up, participants need to take our weight loss questionnaire. This will help us get to know you a little better and see how we can help.
There is no need to struggle with obesity and any related complications from diabetes when such a beneficial drug exists. There is no guarantee that you will get the exact results that you are after. There are also those drawbacks of the injections and potential side effects. However, studies show that semaglutide can work and, with the right lifestyle plan and attitude, it could help you. So get in touch with us today and see how we can help.
Sources:
https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-174490/semaglutide-subcutaneous/details
https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/semaglutide/
https://www.uclh.nhs.uk/news/gamechanger-drug-treating-obesity-cuts-body-weight-20
