If you’re considering Semaglutide for weight loss, you’re not alone. This FDA-approved medication has been recognized for promoting significant and safe weight reduction in women who are obese or overweight. In this guide, you’ll learn what Semaglutide is, its benefits, and what you can expect during treatment.
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is an FDA-approved medication that promotes weight loss in women who are considered obese with a BMI of 30 or higher, or overweight with a BMI of 27 or higher.
As a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist, semaglutide mimics the hormone GLP-1, which regulates hunger and food intake. By injecting semaglutide weekly, this hormone is suppressed, and gastric emptying is delayed, resulting in feeling fuller and more satisfied after meals.
Many women notice weight reduction within 4 or more weeks of starting treatment at a dose of 0.25 mg.
Benefits of Semaglutide for Women
Semaglutide can provide many benefits for women, including:
- Promotes consistent weight loss over time
- Reduces cravings and overall appetite
- Regulates insulin and blood sugar levels
- Lowers blood pressure and cholesterol
- Decreases inflammation markers linked to obesity
- Improves insulin sensitivity and reduces resistance
- Eases weight-related joint pain and improves movement
- Reduces the risk of diabetes and heart disease
- Supports positive body image and mental well-being
Are You a Candidate?
You might be a candidate for Semaglutide injections if the below applies to you. Your healthcare provider will conduct a thorough health evaluation during your initial consultation to determine if you are a candidate.
- Patients needing assistance with weight loss when diet and exercise are insufficient
- Adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with at least one weight-related condition (e.g., hypertension, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia)
- Individuals with type 2 diabetes for blood sugar control
What are Potential Side Effects?
The potential side effects will vary based on your current health but can include:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Stomach pain, constipation
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Low blood sugar (in people with diabetes)
Additional side effects, while very rare, can include thyroid tumors, pancreatitis, kidney problems, and gallbladder issues.
Can I Continue Taking Semaglutide During Pregnancy Or While Breastfeeding?
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before continuing or starting Semaglutide. The medication isn’t recommended during these periods due to limited research on its safety. Your provider can help you determine the best approach for managing your weight and health during pregnancy or while nursing.
How Long Should I Continue Taking Semaglutide For Weight Loss?
The exact duration of your treatment will depend on your individual weight loss goals and overall health. Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress and advise you on the appropriate length of treatment. Once you reach your target weight, they can help you transition to a maintenance plan that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise to maintain your results.
What To Expect
During your Semaglutide consultation, your healthcare provider will start with an initial assessment, reviewing your medical history, current medications, and weight loss goals. They’ll also measure your weight (including your BMI), height, and blood pressure to get a baseline understanding of your health.
If found to be a candidate for Semaglutide, your healthcare provider will explain how it works and discuss realistic expectations regarding weight reduction over time, and address any concerns or questions you might have.
They will also discuss the dosage plan, typically starting with a low dose of 0.25 mg per week and gradually increasing it as your body adjusts. Semaglutide only needs to be given once per week as a subcutaneous injection. As mentioned, most women begin to notice weight loss between 4 to 6 weeks after beginning the injections.
Experience the benefits of Semaglutide today.
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