The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved semaglutide in the treatment of chronic weight management for overweight adults or those struggling with obesity. When used along with a reduced calorie diet and exercise, research shows promising results for this latest innovative treatment.
In the last several decades we have seen the prevalence of obesity rise at an exponential rate, nearly three times what it was 50 years ago! To make matters worse, obesity is correlated with many other health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, even certain forms of cancer. By reducing obesity it’s also possible to alleviate secondary conditions such as sleep apnea and osteoarthritis. This demonstrates how this new breakthrough treatment could greatly improve our patients’ health and quality of life.
How Does Semaglutide Work?
Semaglutide works to mimic a hormone called glucagon-like Peptide-1 (GLP-1). This particular hormone targets areas of the brain that regulate appetite. Recently, an endocrinologist at Yale Medicine simplified this explanation. “This medicine helps you feel full earlier,” says Ania Jastreboff, MD, PhD. “It means you will have little desire to reach for ’seconds’ or a snack later.”
As it relates to diabetic patients, Dr. Jastreboff went on to explain that “individuals with type 2 diabetes secrete less GLP-1 in response to eating compared to those who do not have the condition. Experts believe that’s also true for people with obesity. With semaglutide, people are receiving more GLP-1, albeit in a synthetic form,” she says. “They’re essentially getting back more of that hormone, which helps them feel full.”
At Advanced Urgent Care & Wellness our practitioners take a customized, integrative approach to solving health concerns. By simply receiving more of a hormone that your body may be lacking, you could potentially experience regulated blood sugar, fewer cravings and therefore, reduced calorie intake. Consequently, we are better able to manage diabetes and weight management in our patients.
How Effective Is Semaglutide?
As for semaglutide’s effectiveness, one recent randomized, controlled double-blind study published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that patients lost an average of 12.4% more of their initial body weight compared with those who received a placebo. And in another study that assessed the efficacy of semaglutide administered to diabetic patients, the results were just as promising.
Recently, Timothy Garvey, MD at University of Alabama described this new treatment as a “game-changer.” He went on to say, “We have not seen this degree of weight loss with any previous medication. More than 50 percent of trial participants are losing 15 percent of their body weight, and anywhere between a third and 40 percent of participants are losing 20 percent of their body weight.”
Such controlled research studies are important in understanding the safety and efficacy of semaglutide. With such encouraging data and results, we feel confident in the efficacy of this treatment, and are very excited by the improvements being shown in patients.
Is Semaglutide Treatment Safe?
Semaglutide treatment seems to be safe. Side effects appear to be mild and decrease over time. Most common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, constipation, headache, fatigue, indigestion, low blood sugar, flatulence and reflux. If any of these side effects concern you, we would encourage you to speak with one of our medical professionals at Advanced Urgent Care & Wellness. Our staff provides customized, integrative healthcare and can answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Weight Loss Management in Lincolnton
An in-depth assessment with a healthcare provider at Advanced Urgent Care and Wellness can determine whether semaglutide is the best treatment option for you. To speak with a medical professional, call (704) 240-8133 or request a consultation today.
