What are the benefits of semaglutide?
Beyond the scale: the surprising full-body benefits of the latest metabolic breakthroughs.
Key highlights
- Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics the action of the human glucagon-like peptide-1 hormone to promote blood sugar control, suppress appetite, and reduce body weight.
- The medication is FDA-approved for treating type 2 diabetes, chronic weight management, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, preventing kidney failure in patients with chronic kidney disease, and treating metabolic dysfunction associated with steatohepatitis (MASH) in patients with liver fibrosis.
- The medication also improves symptoms of PCOS, obstructive sleep apnea, Alzheimer's disease, and alcohol use disorder, reduces neuro-inflammation and cognitive decline, risk of colorectal cancer, and dementia, and promotes cardiovascular health.
- Common side effects of semaglutide include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, and constipation. These are usually temporary and manageable with lifestyle modifications. Serious risks are rare with the medication.
- Consult a healthcare professional experienced in GLP-1 medications before starting the medication to discuss your goals, pros and cons, risks, and cost and insurance considerations.
Are you tired of traditional weight loss methods or conventional medications for type 2 diabetes and still not getting any significant benefits? It is time to explore GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide for weight loss.
Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (known by brand names Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus), has been in headlines for its impressive weight loss effects. The medication has created a major shift in treating obesity and diabetes. Although it has been dubbed a “game-changer,” the conversation usually stops there. In reality, semaglutide promotes significant weight loss benefits and has multi-systemic effects that address metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Its benefits range from sustained weight management to its protective effects on your heart and kidneys.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the benefits of semaglutide, including its well-established effects on weight and blood sugar, as well as its lesser-known advantages for heart health and overall wellness. We’ll also cover the practical details of how it works, its different forms, and who it is for.
Understanding the science: What is semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist, which means the medication mimics the action of the naturally occurring human glucagon-like peptide-1 hormone. This hormone is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels and appetite after food intake. Semaglutide has 94% structural similarity to the GLP-1 hormone.
When used along with a low-calorie diet and increased physical activity, semaglutide is indicated for the following conditions:
- Type 2 diabetes (Ozempic and Rybelsus)
- Weight management in patients with obesity (BMI 30 or more) and overweight (BMI 27 or more) with at least one health condition related to increased body weight, such as hypertension, heart disease, hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol levels in the blood), and dyslipidemia (Wegovy)
- To reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases (Ozempic and Wegovy)
- To prevent worsening kidney failure or end-stage kidney disease in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and type 2 diabetes (Ozempic)
- MASH (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis) or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in patients with moderate-to-advanced fibrosis (Wegovy)
The 3 different brands: Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus
Semaglutide is available under three brand names: Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus. Each brand name has different FDA-approved indications:
| Medication | FDA-approved indication(s) | FDA-approved dosage (typical) | Form | Dosing frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ozempic® | • Type 2 diabetes mellitus • Cardiovascular risk reduction in adults with Type 2 diabetes mellitus and established cardiovascular disease • To reduce the risk of worsening kidney disease or end-stage kidney disease in Type 2 diabetes with Chronic kidney disease | 0.25 mg (initiation), 0.5 mg, 1 mg, up to 2 mg | Subcutaneous injection | Once weekly |
| Wegovy® | • Chronic weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with ≥1 weight-related condition (e.g., hypertension, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease), MASH (metabolic-associated steatohepatitis) in patients with moderate-to-advanced liver fibrosis, cardiovascular risk reduction | 0.25. mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2.4 mg, 1.7 mg, 2.4 mg | Subcutaneous injection | Once weekly |
| Rybelsus® | • Type 2 diabetes mellitus | 3 mg, 7 mg, 14 mg | Oral tablet | Once daily |
How semaglutide works in the body
Semaglutide works in the following ways for blood sugar control and weight reduction:
Appetite suppression and cravings
Semaglutide occupies the GLP-1 receptor in the lateral hypothalamus and brain stem to regulate appetite. Activation of these receptors promotes satiety or a feeling of fullness and reduces hunger. Patients experience reduced food noise and fewer hunger pangs due to appetite suppression.
Slows digestion
The medication relaxes stomach muscles and delays gastric emptying (the rate at which food leaves the stomach and enters the intestine). This action makes you feel full for longer periods and reduces appetite. Additionally, delayed gastric emptying prevents sudden spikes in blood sugar levels after food intake.
Regulates insulin
Semaglutide enhances glucose‑dependent insulin secretion from beta cells of the pancreas. The medication increases insulin release only when blood glucose levels are high, which lowers the risk of hypoglycemia.
It also suppresses glucagon secretion from alpha cells in the pancreas, which prevents unnecessary glucose release into the bloodstream.
The combined effect of semaglutide on alpha and beta cells of the pancreas helps improve glycemic control after meals and over the long term.
The top 6 benefits of semaglutide
The following are the benefits of semaglutide:
1. Significant and sustainable weight loss
Semaglutide shows significant weight loss benefits when the medication is combined with healthy lifestyle habits such as exercise, a low-calorie or balanced diet, and increased physical activity.
A STEP 1 clinical study determined the effectiveness of semaglutide (one weekly injection) in patients with obesity and overweight. In this study, 1,961 adults with obesity and overweight (those without diabetes) were enrolled who received 2.4 mg weekly semaglutide or a placebo. Patients in the semaglutide group showed a mean weight reduction of 14.9% of body weight compared to 2.4% with the placebo after 68 weeks.
Weight loss results after 68 weeks were as follows:
- Approximately 86.4% of participants on semaglutide lost at least 5% of their body weight, compared to 31.5% in the placebo group.
- In the semaglutide group, 69.1% of the patients lost 10% or more, compared to 12.0% of the placebo group.
- About 50.5% of those on semaglutide lost 15% or more body weight, while only 4.9% of the placebo group achieved this.
These statistics show that semaglutide is an effective medication for sustainable weight loss. Besides reducing body weight, the medication suppresses appetite and reduces food noise, which leads to lower food intake.
A research study shows that patients on semaglutide have a reduced inclination toward less oily, fatty, and high-calorie foods, such as carbonated drinks, sugary snacks, and processed foods, which helps with weight reduction.
2. Improved blood sugar control for type 2 diabetes
Semaglutide improves insulin sensitivity and enhances insulin release, which helps with blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes.
A clinical study demonstrates that semaglutide treatment led to a 1.38% drop in HbA1c, a 56.53 mg/dL reduction in fasting blood glucose, and an average weight loss of 6.03 kg after 32 weeks of treatment. The treatment also resulted in significant improvements in systolic blood pressure and lipid profile (LDL and HDL cholesterol levels and triglycerides) and a reduction in waist circumference. Ozempic slows the progression of kidney disease and reduces the risk of death, worsening kidney disease, and kidney failure in patients with chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes.
In a research study, patients with type 2 diabetes and kidney disease were given either semaglutide (1 mg weekly) or a placebo. Patients were assessed after 3.4 years. The semaglutide group had a 24% lower risk of serious kidney problems or death from kidney disease, an 18% lower risk of cardiovascular diseases, and a 20% lower risk of death from any cause. They also had fewer heart-related deaths and slower kidney decline.
The medication also reduces the risk of long-term complications of diabetes, such as neuropathy and kidney disease.
3. Significant reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE)
Semaglutide is FDA-approved for lowering the risk of heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death in patients with existing heart or blood vessel-related disease and obesity and overweight.
A clinical study analyzed data from the SELECT trial to evaluate the cardiovascular benefits of semaglutide. The trial included over 17,000 adults with overweight or obesity and established heart disease (without diabetes). Participants received weekly semaglutide or placebo. The results showed that semaglutide reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attack, stroke, or death from cardiovascular disease by 20%, regardless of baseline HbA1c levels or changes in HbA1c during treatment.
In other words, semaglutide lowered cardiovascular risk even in people with normal blood sugar levels and even when blood sugar levels did not improve. These results confirm that semaglutide has cardioprotective benefits.
A clinical study compared the results of SUSTAIN 6 and REWIND studies to analyze the effects of Ozempic and Trulicity on major adverse cardiovascular events such as non-fatal heart attack, non-fatal stroke, and death due to cardiovascular events. The semaglutide group showed 26% greater reduction in heart and blood vessel-related diseases compared to dulaglutide.
4. Heart health benefits
Semaglutide has an anti-inflammatory action. Inflammation plays a critical role in the development of cardiovascular diseases, atherosclerosis, and type 2 diabetes. Anti-inflammatory action of semaglutide reduces CRP (C-reactive protein) levels and inhibits expression of inflammatory markers, which decreases the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease and improves blood pressure.
Semaglutide may improve cardiovascular health by improving vascular health (via vasodilation and improved endothelial function), reducing inflammation, improving metabolic profiles, lowering blood pressure, and improving lipids, in addition to weight loss.
The European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO) analysis demonstrates that semaglutide reduces waist size and overall body weight for at least 4 years in obese and overweight patients and shows cardiovascular benefits irrespective of weight reduction. According to this analysis, even if patients do not lose weight with semaglutide, they are likely to experience cardiovascular benefits.
5. Improving symptoms of heart failure (HFpEF)
Semaglutide helps with heart failure symptoms such as fatigue and breathlessness, particularly in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), reduces inflammation, improves exercise tolerance and physical functions, and enhances quality of life.
A study published in JAMA Network analyzed five cohort studies to assess the effect of semaglutide in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Results of this analysis show that patients using semaglutide had 40% lower risk of hospitalization due to heart failure as compared to sitagliptin.
6. Liver benefits
In the Phase 3 ESSENCE trial, patients with MASH and moderate to advanced fibrosis were given weekly semaglutide (2.4 mg). Patients were assessed after 72 weeks. Resolution of steatohepatitis (inflammation and liver cell damage) was seen in about 62.9% of patients using semaglutide compared to 34.3% with placebo.
Approximately 36.8% of semaglutide users showed improvement in liver fibrosis without worsening of steatohepatitis compared to 22.4% of placebo users. A combined outcome of steatohepatitis resolution and fibrosis improvement was achieved in 32.7% of semaglutide users and in 16.1% of the placebo group. Additionally, patients using semaglutide also showed clinically significant weight loss (approximately 10.5% of body weight) and improvements in liver markers. MASH is linked to overweight and obesity. Reduced body weight decreases the severity of the disease. Semaglutide can improve the overall cardiometabolic profile of patients with MASH, reduce their risk for heart and blood vessel-related diseases, and metabolic issues by managing obesity and being overweight.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved semaglutide (Wegovy) for the treatment of metabolic dysfunction‑associated steatohepatitis (MASH) with moderate‑to‑advanced liver fibrosis in adults.
Other potential benefits of semaglutide
Semaglutide has various benefits, but these are based on emerging research studies. The FDA has not approved the medication for these purposes. However, healthcare providers may prescribe the medication off-label for patients when medically appropriate.
Reduction of alcohol use
The small but growing research suggests that semaglutide alters the brain’s “craving and reward drive,” which improves the symptoms of alcohol use disorder.
A 2025 phase II trial published in JAMA shows that low doses of semaglutide may help people with alcohol use disorder drink less. The medication did not reduce the frequency of alcohol intake, but it reduced the quantity of alcohol intake.
Moreover, a review of six studies included approximately 88,000 people to assess whether semaglutide can help reduce alcohol use. Some people (especially those with obesity) experienced a drop in the frequency of alcohol intake, and fewer alcohol-related health issues were noticed.
Manage symptoms of PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
Semaglutide is used off-label for managing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. The medication improves insulin resistance and weight loss to help regulate menstrual cycles and improve symptoms.
A randomized controlled clinical trial evaluated the efficacy of semaglutide in combination with metformin and metformin alone. After 16 weeks, the group that received semaglutide plus metformin experienced greater weight loss than metformin alone, improved insulin resistance and metabolic markers, better hormonal outcomes (including testosterone), higher rates of menstrual cycle recovery, and higher natural pregnancy rates during follow‑ups.
Patients using combination treatment with semaglutide experienced more substantial improvements in both metabolic and reproductive symptoms of PCOS than metformin alone.
Reduced risk of obstructive sleep apnea
Obesity and overweight are risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Semaglutide manages body weight, which reduces the risk of sleep apnea.
A retrospective study published in the European Society of Medicine showed that the use of anti‑obesity medications (AOMs), such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, was associated with a significantly lower incidence of obstructive sleep apnea compared with no AOM use. According to this study, the likelihood of developing OSA was about 40% lower in patients who used semaglutide and tirzepatide compared to those who did not take these medications. These findings suggest that GLP-1 agonists may be an effective intervention for managing obesity and obstructive sleep apnea.
Reduced risk of colorectal cancer
A cohort study published in JAMA analyzed colorectal cancer risk in patients with type 2 diabetes with or without obesity and overweight. The results showed that people with type 2 diabetes who took GLP‑1 receptor agonists had a significantly lower risk of developing colorectal cancer compared with those taking other commonly used diabetes medications, such as insulin or metformin.
The reduced risk was observed in individuals with overweight or obesity, which suggests that GLP-1 medications reduce body weight and protect diabetic patients from colorectal cancer.
Improved neurological health
Semaglutide and other GLP-1 receptors reduce neuroinflammation (which causes cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases). In mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease, semaglutide reduces activation of microglia and astrocytes (immune cells in the brain that cause inflammation) and lowers inflammatory cytokines, which improves cognitive performance. These findings indicate that semaglutide exerts neuroprotective effects through anti‑inflammatory signaling and modulation of immune activity in the brain.
A large real‑world, emulation target trial demonstrates that semaglutide use in people with type 2 diabetes is associated with a significantly lower risk of a first‑time diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, compared with other diabetes medications.
Slowing down cognitive decline (dementia/alzheimer’s)
Semaglutide and other GLP‑1 receptor agonists reduce inflammation in the brain. Chronic inflammation is a major risk factor for the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. In animal models, semaglutide reduced the activation of immune cells in the brain and lowered the levels of inflammatory cytokines. These changes led to improved cognitive performance and reduced markers of Alzheimer’s pathology in rodents.
A systematic review reports that semaglutide can cross the blood–brain barrier and exert its neuroprotective effects. It improves neurovascular integrity and cerebral blood flow and reduces neuroinflammation.
Evoke and Evoke+ are the first large-scale trials to assess the efficacy of semaglutide in patients with early-stage symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease and neuroinflammation. These trials are still ongoing. They will provide data on the potential benefits of semaglutide in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
Reduced inflammation
Clinical studies show that semaglutide has anti-inflammatory properties and has a protective role in the body’s metabolism, liver, kidneys, and cardiovascular system. It reduces inflammatory cytokines and modulates the immune system through various pathways.
In the STEP 1-3 clinical trials, semaglutide (a weekly dose of 2.4 mg) resulted in a 49% reduction in C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, while a 1 mg weekly dose of semaglutide reduced CRP by 42%, compared to the placebo after 68 weeks. CRP is an acute-phase protein that indicates inflammation in the body and is strongly linked to insulin resistance.
The following studies demonstrate the anti-inflammatory effects of semaglutide on various inflammatory diseases:
| Treatment | Patients/Samples | Dose/Duration | Effects |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide | 40 men with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus | 1 mg/week for 6 months (injection) | Decreased levels of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) |
| Semaglutide | 20 individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus | 1 mg/week for 3 months (injection) | Minor alterations in some inflammatory markers (e.g., CRP, IL-6) |
| Semaglutide | Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus | – | Linked to lower levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) compared to baseline in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus |
| Semaglutide | Obese patients diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus | 0.25 mg/week for 4 weeks, increased to 0.50 mg/week for 16 weeks, then 1 mg/week for 10 months | Reduced symptoms of psoriasis, and improved epicardial fat volume and inflammation |
| Semaglutide | Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and chronic kidney disease | 3 mg/day for 9 months (oral) | Enhanced kidney function, possibly through a reduction in inflammation |
| Semaglutide | Epicardial fat biopsies of patients undergoing open-heart surgery | – | Reduced neutrophil adhesion to endothelial cells and promoted angiogenesis |
| Semaglutide | Epicardial fat biopsies of patients undergoing cardiac surgery | – | Induced effects that prevent thrombosis and atherosclerosis by suppressing neutrophil activity |
Who is a candidate for semaglutide?
The following are eligibility criteria for Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus:
Eligibility for weight management (Wegovy)
Wegovy (semaglutide) is indicated for adults who meet specific weight-related criteria. These include individuals with:
- Obesity (body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or higher)
- Overweight (BMI 27 kg/m² or higher) with at least one weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, dyslipidemia, or high cholesterol
Semaglutide is FDA-approved for weight loss when the medication is paired with healthy lifestyle habits and low calorie diet.
Eligibility for adolescent weight management (Wegovy)
Wegovy is also FDA-approved for paediatric patients aged 12 or more (adolescents) with a body mass index of 95th percentile or more for age and sex (obesity), when the medication is used as an adjunct to increased physical activity and a balanced diet.
Eligibility for type 2 diabetes (Ozempic, Rybelsus)
Ozempic and Rybelsus are approved for adults with Type 2 Diabetes to improve blood sugar control, when used alongside diet and exercise.
Eligibility for kidney disease progression (Ozempic)
Ozempic is indicated for adult patients with chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes to reduce the risk of worsening kidney disease and end-stage renal disease.
Eligibility for cardiovascular risk reduction (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus)
Ozempic is FDA-approved as an adjunct to healthy lifestyle habits for adults to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular (CV) events such as cardiovascular death, nonfatal heart attack (myocardial infarction), or nonfatal stroke and hospitalization due to cardiovascular diseases in patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.
Wegovy is also FDA-approved to reduce the risk of heart attack, cardiovascular death, and stroke in patients with existing cardiovascular disease and obesity or overweight.
Eligibility for MASH (Wegovy)
Wegovy is indicated for adults with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH or NASH) with moderate to advanced liver scarring (fibrosis) without liver cirrhosis, when the medication is used along with a reduced-calorie diet and exercise.
Risks, side effects, and warnings
Like other weight loss drugs, semaglutide is also associated with certain side effects and warnings:
Common side effects and managing GI issues
The most common side effects of semaglutide are gastrointestinal issues, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. These are usually mild to moderate and often improve over time.
You can manage these side effects by slowly increasing your dose as prescribed by your healthcare provider, eating smaller portions, and staying well hydrated. If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, consult with your healthcare provider. They may prescribe you over-the-counter medications to manage these side effects or make necessary adjustments in your dosing schedule.
Serious side effects and warnings
Rare but serious side effects of semaglutide include the following:
- Pancreatitis: Semaglutide may cause pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). If you feel pain in the upper stomach that radiates to the back, with or without vomiting, it can be due to pancreatitis. Stop taking the medication and consult your healthcare provider. If you already have pancreatitis, inform your doctor before starting semaglutide.
- Hypersensitivity reactions: Allergic reactions and urticaria can occur with semaglutide. Signs of hypersensitivity reaction include swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, throat, difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, fainting, severe rash or itching, and difficulty swallowing. In case of a severe allergic reaction, immediately visit a nearby healthcare facility to receive emergency care.
- Hypoglycemia: A Low blood glucose level is rare, but it can be fatal. Hypoglycemia usually occurs when semaglutide is used with insulin or sulfonylureas because they also have glucose-lowering effects. Signs of low blood glucose levels are dizziness, shakiness, lightheadedness, irritability, blurred vision, anxiety, confusion, slurred speech, sweating, and feeling jittery. If you have hypoglycemia, immediately take a sweetener, glucose tablets, or juice. In case of hypoglycemic coma, emergency medical care is immediately needed.
- Changes in vision: Semaglutide can cause vision changes and worsen diabetic retinopathy. Inform your doctor if you already have diabetic retinopathy.
- Gallbladder problems: Gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis) and gallstones (cholelithiasis) have been reported with semaglutide. If you experience yellowing of skin or eyes, nausea, clay colored stools, pain in the upper abdomen, and fever, inform your doctor. They will investigate gall bladder problems. If you already have gall bladder issues, inform your doctor before starting the medication.
- Acute kidney injury: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea with semaglutide can lead to severe dehydration and acute kidney injury. If you have signs of dehydration, such as a rapid heartbeat, sunken eyes, confusion, irritability, and dizziness, immediately visit your doctor.
- Increased risk of aspiration: Semaglutide is associated with an increased risk of aspiration (food entering the respiratory tract and lungs) during procedures that involve anesthesia and sedation. If you plan to undergo any surgical or invasive procedures that require sedation or anesthesia, inform your healthcare provider before starting semaglutide.
Semaglutide has some important contraindications, including a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2), and pregnancy. Although no human studies have reported any incidence of thyroid cell carcinoma yet, rodent studies have reported an increased risk of thyroid cancer with semaglutide. If you feel any lump or swelling in the neck, hoarseness of the voice, shortness of breath, or difficulty swallowing, immediately inform your doctor. They will rule out thyroid cancer first.
Additionally, semaglutide is not recommended for pregnant and lactating women and those planning to conceive.
Semaglutide treatment needs consistency. If you stop taking the medication without sustained lifestyle changes, you are more likely to regain lost weight.
Access and affordability
Without insurance, a monthly supply of semaglutide may cost $1,000 to $1,300 or more. The list price for Wegovy is $1,349.02 per package. Retail price ranges between $ 1,300-$1,600 or more from pharmacies. The wholesale acquisition cost (WAC) for Rybelsus is $997.58 per package. The retail price may range between $1,000 and $1,300 or more.
The list price for Ozempic is $997.58 for a monthly supply. You may get the medication for $1,000 to $1,300 or more from pharmacies.
Novo Nordisk’s Patient Assistance Program, Wegovy saving card, Ozempic saving card, and Rybelsus saving card help lower the cost for eligible patients. If you are eligible, you can get Ozempic and Wegovy for as low as $25 and $0 per month, respectively, with the Ozempic and Wegovy savings card if your commercial insurance covers the medication. Without insurance coverage, you could get the medication through NovoCare Pharmacy for $349 per month.
Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance companies may cover semaglutide for type 2 diabetes, but they usually do not cover it when the medication is used solely for weight management. If you are uninsured, you can use pharmacy discount cards from GoodRx, SingleCare, WellRx, Optum Perks, and BuzzRx to save up to 9-27% off the actual cost.
Semaglutide FAQs
What’s the difference between Ozempic and Wegovy?
Both Ozempic and Wegovy contain semaglutide as their active ingredient, but differ in dosing and FDA indications. Ozempic is available in 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg once weekly dosage and is FDA approved for managing type 2 diabetes in adults. In contrast, Wegovy is available in 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, and 2.4 dosages and is FDA approved for chronic weight management and treating metabolic dysfunction associated with steatohepatitis (MASH) in patients with moderate to advanced liver fibrosis.
How fast will I see results with semaglutide?
If you are taking semaglutide for weight loss or for the management of blood sugar levels, the results are gradual, not immediate. You may experience reduced appetite within the first few weeks, but meaningful weight loss begins after 1-2 months as you start taking higher doses. However, the visible weight loss begins to appear after 3-6 months of consistent use.
Can I take semaglutide if I don’t have diabetes?
Yes, semaglutide can be used if you don’t have diabetes when prescribed as Wegovy for weight loss. This medicine is recommended for adults with obesity ( BMI ≥30), or overweight (BMI ≥27) with at least one weight-related condition such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, heart disease, or high cholesterol levels. The medication is also used for cardiovascular risk reduction and treatment of metabolic dysfunction associated with steatohepatitis (MASH) in patients with moderate to advanced liver fibrosis.
What happens if I stop taking semaglutide?
If you stop taking semaglutide, you may experience weight regain. Semaglutide suppresses hunger and makes you feel full for longer. When you stop taking it, your appetite may return. Obesity is a long-term condition that needs long-term management. If you stop the medication without sticking to lifestyle modifications, you may regain lost weight within a few months.
How does semaglutide compare to other GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro (tirzepatide)?
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, while tirzepatide is a dual agonist that targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. Both medications work similarly, but tirzepatide has greater efficacy than semaglutide for weight management due to its dual action. However, semaglutide has cardiovascular benefits and is approved for cardiovascular risk reduction. In comparison, tirzepatide has not been FDA-approved for this purpose yet.
Conclusion: Understanding the benefits of semaglutide and whether it’s right for you
Semaglutide is a powerful medication for weight loss, blood sugar control, and improving heart health. The medication is more than just a weight loss shot. It is a metabolic protector that has fundamentally changed the approach to treating chronic diseases like obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
Other potential benefits of semaglutide include management of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), alcohol use disorder, and Alzheimer’s disease, improved neurological health, reduction in cognitive decline, sleep apnea, and colorectal cancer, and improved cardiovascular health. These are off-label uses of semaglutide, as the FDA has not approved the medication for this purpose.
Remember, semaglutide is not a “magic shot” but a groundbreaking tool that works best when combined with a healthy lifestyle. If you are struggling with obesity, diabetes, or have cardiovascular risk factors, talk to your doctor about whether the broad benefits of semaglutide could be right for your long-term health plan.
