Semaglutide 101 at Michael Horn Plastic Surgery & Med Spa
It seems like mentions of semaglutide are everywhere these days, from morning news broadcasts to talk radio, reality TV, and social media. While the frequent coverage often touches on the basics, there isn't always a great deal of detailed information or explanation on how semaglutide works, who can benefit from it, or how safe it really is for long-term weight loss. This article will help lay out some of those details and hopefully take care of some unanswered questions.
What is Semaglutide?
You may have heard or read that semaglutide medication is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. But what exactly does that mean? Let's break it down so we can better understand how it actually works for weight loss. This is Semaglutide 101, after all. GLP-1 receptors in our body can be found in our pancreas and our brain and are critical to controlling blood sugar and appetite during the insulin secretion process. When these receptors receive certain signals from the body, via an agonist, they work to regulate insulin, control glucose, and produce a feeling of fullness which usually happens after eating. Semaglutide is a substitute or artificial GLP-1 receptor agonist, which means that it sends the same signals to the brain and body that regulate blood sugar and make you feel fuller, longer without as much food intake. Of course, a smaller appetite and lower food intake means weight loss. In a major clinical trial, semaglutide patients lost over five times more weight than the placebo group. Weight loss has a multitude of benefits. Not only can it boost confidence and improve appearance, it can reduce the risk of many weight-related diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and even certain cancers.
Who is a candidate for Semaglutide?
It is important to note that while this medication is used for a wide variety of patients with different backgrounds, it may not be suitable for everyone. Typically, semaglutide is used for those with a BMI of around 27 or higher and often a weight-related medical condition such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol. If a patient's BMI is over 30, even without any additional health concerns, they are likely a good candidate for weight loss with this medication. Individuals with a history of pancreatitis or some types of cancers may not be ideal candidates. Additionally, Patients under 18 or over 75 years of age, as well as those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, should avoid taking this medication.
Is Semaglutide safe?
This treatment is an FDA-approved weight loss medication that has been proven in clinical trials to be safe and effective. The key to safety and effectiveness with a semaglutide prescription is working with a qualified doctor through a supervised prescription program. Along with the weekly injection, your provider should be periodically checking your vitals, monitoring any side effects, and adjusting your dosage if necessary.
Is Semaglutude a long-term solution for weight loss?
Since semaglutide was originally created as a treatment for chronic diabetes, it is safe for extended usage and can be used long-term for weight loss as well. When semaglutide is stopped, most often, appetite and body fat will return. Ideally, working with a medical professional who can manage weight loss and help you improve overall healthy lifestyle choices, along with forming a plan for using semaglutide over time, will give you the best outcomes.
Are there any effective non-prescription alternatives to Semaglutide?
There are aisles filled with OTC weight loss products that claim to help you drop the pounds. Although some of these supplements have shown limited success with certain patients, they are not highly scrutinized, usually not FDA-approved, and can be very dangerous. The best way to add a medical or supplemental weight loss aid to your health plan is to do so under the supervision of a qualified medical professional.
Does Semaglutide really work?
Over 85 percent of patients during clinical trials lost over 5 percent of their body weight. Around half lost 15 percent, and close to a third lost 20 percent or more in less than a year and a half. This non-invasive, medically endorsed weight loss solution produces real results and caters to individuals seeking a reliable and effective method.
Could this be the key to your weight loss success?
The best way to decide if taking semaglutide is right for you is to schedule a personalized consultation with medical weight loss experts like our team at Michael Horn Plastic Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago. We can help guide you through every facet of this treatment and celebrate your exciting results.
