Blog What to know about semaglutide: The new weight loss drug

Semaglutide is a new weight loss drug that has been making waves in the health and wellness world. It is an injectable medication that works by suppressing appetite, improving metabolism and helping to reduce overall body fat. Semaglutide is fast becoming a popular option for those looking to shed pounds and improve their health, but there are some important things to know before deciding to use it. In this blog post, we will look at what semaglutide is, how it works, how it is administered, and the dosing and side effects associated with it.

What is semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a prescription medication created for the treatment of obesity and Type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. Semaglutide is the generic name of the primary active ingredient in the brand-name medications Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus. Ozempic and Wegovy are offered in an injectable form, and Rybelsus is offered as an oral medication.

Semaglutide was approved by the FDA in 2021 for chronic weight management and is the only GLP-1 agonist approved as an injectable medication for both the treatment of Type 2 diabetes and weight management.

How does semaglutide work?

Semaglutide helps people lose weight by working in the brain to reduce appetite and increase the feeling of fullness after eating. It works by hormones in the brain, such as glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), which are involved in regulating appetite. This hormone is released after eating and signals to the brain that you’re full. When semaglutide binds to GLP-1 receptors, it increases their activity, making them more sensitive and triggering increased feelings of fullness. As a result, people on semaglutide tend to eat less and feel fuller faster, leading to weight loss over time.

How is semaglutide administered?

Semaglutide is administered in a variety of ways, depending on the patient and their preferences. It can be injected under the skin (subcutaneously) once a week, either by self-injection or by a healthcare professional. It is also available as an oral tablet and can be taken once daily. The subcutaneous injection requires a pen-like device to administer the drug, while the oral tablets are designed to be swallowed whole with a glass of water.

In both cases, the dose should be taken at the same time every day or every week, and patients should keep track of when they take their doses to ensure they are taking them correctly.

What are the dosing and side effects?

The dose of the medication can vary depending on the individual, but it is generally started at a low level and increased gradually over time. It is usually administered once a week by subcutaneous injection. Like with any medication, there are potential side effects associated with semaglutide, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, these side effects are generally mild and tend to go away on their own within a few days. It’s important to talk to your doctor about the potential side effects of semaglutide before starting the medication.

Semaglutide is an exciting new weight loss drug developed to help those struggling with obesity. If you’re looking for more information on semaglutide, or if you’re ready to discuss pricing and begin treatment, contact EBO MD today. Our experienced team of primary care providers is here to answer your questions and help you reach your health goals.

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