Semaglutide is described as a groundbreaking treatment for weight loss. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, Semaglutide is a GLP-1 agonist that mimics the natural hormone produced when we eat. It works by signaling fullness and delaying gastric emptying, thereby reducing appetite and maintaining satiety for extended periods. This mechanism helps individuals consume fewer calories that leads to weight loss.
Semaglutide was approved by the FDA for weight loss indication in June 2021, with studies reporting an average weight loss of 15 pounds. Unlike traditional weight loss medications, Semaglutide does not cause stimulant side effects and is considered more sustainable. It reduces appetite without the typical jitteriness or nervousness associated with stimulants.
Why Weight Loss Drugs are Getting Popular
People are increasingly turning to weight loss drugs due to the rising rates of both obesity and overweight in the United States. You might have heard about celebrities using Ozempic to lose weight, which has brought more attention to the use of weight loss medications. Dr. John Sharretts, director of the Division of Diabetes, Lipid Disorders, and Obesity in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, emphasized the urgent need for effective treatments, stating that about 70% of adult Americans are affected by obesity or overweight. This staggering statistic underscores the significant public health concern surrounding weight-related issues.
Joe Nadglowski, president and CEO of the Obesity Action Coalition, highlighted the importance of new treatment options in providing hope for individuals struggling with obesity. He pointed out the severe health consequences associated with obesity, including life-threatening diseases such as heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes. The availability of weight loss drugs offers a potential solution for individuals battling obesity, providing them with hope for improved health outcomes and quality of life.
Semaglutide as Used in Medications
Semaglutide is a medication used in various brand-name formulations, including Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus, and the newest in the market ‘Zepbound’.
Ozempic: An FDA-approved injection for reducing blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It’s also used to lower the risk of serious cardiac events in individuals with diabetes and heart disease. Weekly doses range from 0.25 milligrams to 2 milligrams.
Wegovy: Another injection, FDA-approved for adults and children over 12 with obesity or weight-related health issues like high cholesterol or type 2 diabetes. Weekly doses range from 0.25 milligrams to 2.4 milligrams.
Rybelsus: This tablet is FDA-approved for lowering blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. Daily doses range from 3 milligrams to 14 milligrams.
Zepbound, from Eli Lilly, is a newly FDA-approved injectable medication with tirzepatide, set to compete with Wegovy. It helps adults with obesity or excess weight lose weight when used with diet and exercise. Not for use with other tirzepatide products or GLP-1 receptor agonists. Safety in certain cases, like pancreatitis or under 18, is uncertain.
Additionally, while not FDA-approved for weight loss, Ozempic is sometimes prescribed off-label for treating obesity. Healthcare providers may choose to prescribe medications like Ozempic for weight loss purposes, even if they are not specifically indicated for that purpose by the FDA.
Not Losing Weight on Semaglutide? Here are 10 Possible Reasons
If you’re not losing weight on semaglutide, you might want to consider the following reasons:
1. Failure to Address Underlying Causes
It’s emphasized that addressing underlying causes of weight gain, such as hormonal imbalances, thyroid issues, gut health, and behavioral challenges, is crucial for successful weight loss. Semaglutide alone may not be sufficient if these underlying factors are not addressed.
2. Not Getting Enough Support
Losing weight isn’t just about taking a pill. Successful weight loss requires personalized support, including guidance on lifestyle changes and emotional support. Merely prescribing Semaglutide without such support may limit its effectiveness.
While Semaglutide can aid in weight loss by stabilizing blood sugar, increasing satiety, and slowing down gastric emptying, successful weight loss often requires comprehensive lifestyle changes. Health coaches play a crucial role in providing accountability, nutrition guidance, emotional support, and strategies to address barriers to success. Without proper support and lifestyle changes, individuals may struggle to achieve their weight loss goals.
3. Not Taking Semaglutide Properly
Proper administration of Semaglutide, including following the prescribed dosage and administration schedule, is vital for its effectiveness. Skipping doses or not following the recommended regimen can hinder weight loss results.
4. Extreme Dieting and Lack of Nutrient Balance
Extreme dieting or consuming very little food can lead to adverse effects like hair loss and a facial side effect that is known as “Ozempic face.” Additionally, not maintaining a well-balanced diet can result in nutrient deficiencies, which may hinder weight loss progress.
5. Inappropriate Diet Choices
Many people assume that any diet will work effectively when taking semaglutide for weight loss such as Wegovy or even Ozempic. However, the active ingredient, semaglutide, may reduce the desire for fatty foods. Therefore, traditional low-fat diets may not be as effective. Instead, a higher-fat diet, such as a keto or high-protein diet, could be more suitable when combined with these medications.
Working with a nutritionist can help you develop a healthy diet plan that ties directly in with your weight loss goals so you can reach lasting results.
6. Unconscious Overeating
Individual differences in eating behaviors and responses to the medication may influence weight loss outcomes. Addressing unconscious overeating tendencies is essential for successful weight loss. This involves developing self-awareness and implementing strategies to manage and overcome such behaviors.
7. Consumption of Sweet Foods
Consuming too many sweet foods can increase overall food intake and diminish the effectiveness of Ozempic or Wegovy. Cutting out sweets entirely or reducing intake can help address sugar cravings and support weight loss efforts.
8. Neglecting Exercise
Not incorporating exercise into a weight loss plan can also hinder long-term results. It’s recommended to aim for an average loss of 0.5% to 1% of current weight per week and to include moderate-intensity exercise to support weight loss efforts.
9. Individual Differences and Unique Circumstances
Everyone’s experience with Semaglutide may vary due to individual differences in metabolism, hormone levels, medical history, and lifestyle factors. It’s essential to consider these unique circumstances when prescribing and using Semaglutide for weight loss.
10. Persistent Medical Conditions or Complications
Certain medical conditions or complications, such as thyroid cancer or gastroparesis, may contraindicate the use of Semaglutide or impact its effectiveness for weight loss. It’s important to assess and address any underlying medical issues before starting treatment.
Semaglutide for Weight Management – Is it Effective?
According to Dr. Saunders and Dr. Kanji, semaglutide has been shown to be very effective for weight loss. A phase 3 clinical trial conducted in 2021 found that weekly injections of 2.4 milligrams of semaglutide led to a mean weight loss of 14.9% over 68 weeks in individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above. In comparison, those who received a placebo only experienced a 2.4% weight loss. As a result of this study, the FDA approved a once-weekly injectable semaglutide under the brand name Wegovy in June 2021 for weight management in individuals with overweight and obesity who have at least one weight-related condition.
But What’s the Catch?
Semaglutide medications offer promising weight loss benefits, but they come with several considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, their cost can be prohibitive, potentially limiting access for some individuals. Additionally, the requirement for injection delivery may be a barrier for those uncomfortable with needles. Long-term commitment is necessary to maintain results, as discontinuation could lead to weight regain. Moreover, common side effects such as nausea and stomach issues may occur, and individuals with certain medical conditions must exercise caution. Limited research on their long-term effects and contraindications for specific populations underscore the need for careful consideration. Everyone should weigh these factors thoughtfully and consult healthcare professionals before considering semaglutide medications for weight loss.
Subscribe for wellness insights and more!
Ready to Achieve Sustainable Weight Loss? Choose Curis!
While weight loss medications like semaglutide may seem like a quick fix, they come with their fair share of concerns and considerations. At Curis Functional Health, we understand that achieving and maintaining a healthy weight involves more than just taking a pill. That’s why we offer personalized solutions tailored to your unique genetic makeup and nutritional needs.
DNA-based Weight Loss
Our Activate DNA-based Weight Loss program harnesses the power of genetics to create a personalized weight loss plan just for you. By analyzing your DNA, we can uncover insights into your metabolism, food sensitivities, and more, allowing us to design a program that maximizes your results naturally.
Functional Nutrition
Our functional nutrition services goes beyond simply counting calories or restricting food groups. We address the underlying causes of weight gain and health issues, using a holistic, systems-oriented approach. Our certified functional nutrition practitioners work with you to develop a customized nutrition plan that nourishes your body and supports long-term health and wellness.
Don’t let the cons of weight loss drugs deter you from achieving your goals. Take control of your health and discover a sustainable approach to weight loss with Curis Functional Health.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward lasting weight loss success.
