Semaglutide has become increasingly popular as an option for medical weight loss. But, how exactly, does Semaglutide work? Why is it so successful in promoting weight loss?

How Does Semaglutide Work?

The FDA has approved three forms of semaglutide, marketed under different brand names:

Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Wegovy

Different Forms Of Semaglutide

Ozempic is an injectable form used to control type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar. It has been in use since 2017.

Ozempic

It is also used to lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death in diabetic individuals or those with known heart disease. Off label, it can be used to promote weight loss.

Ozempic

Rybelsus is a tablet form of semaglutide approved to lower blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Rybelsus

Wegovy is an injection specifically approved for individuals aged 12 and older to promote weight loss alongside a healthy diet and exercise. 

Wegovy

The only FDA approved form of semaglutide specifically for weight loss is Wegovy.

Which Type Of Semaglutide Will I Be Given For Weight Loss?

However, many providers use Ozempic off-label for this same purpose. Both forms are made by the same pharmaceutical company.

Type Of Semaglutide 

Because of its incredible outcomes, semaglutide is in increasingly high demand. In fact, both Ozempic and Wegovy are currently on the 2023 Drug Shortages list. 

What Is Compounded Semaglutide?

For this reason, many clinics (including Balanced Body Health & Wellness) choose to use a compounded form of semaglutide.

What Is Compounded Semaglutide?

This is typically a combination of semaglutide and one or more vitamins, such as B12.

What Is Compounded Semaglutide?

Using a compounded product allows clinics to accommodate as many patients as possible when a preferred drug is in shortage. 

What Is Compounded Semaglutide?

Compounded semaglutide is also, typically, much more affordable than brand name versions.

What Is Compounded Semaglutide?

You should be aware that compounded semaglutide is not FDA approved, as its contents are entirely up to the compounding pharmacy that makes it.

What Is Compounded Semaglutide?

However, compounders do need to meet requirements set forth by the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

What Is Compounded Semaglutide?

At Balanced Body, we outsource only to pharmacies that meet stringent standards for safety, quality, and consistency. 

What Is Compounded Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is what is known as a glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. The GLP-1 receptor is a protein that is found on the cells of your pancreas and ...

So, How Does Semaglutide Work?

 neurons in your brain. Its primary function is to regulate blood sugar by stimulating insulin secretion. 

So, How Does Semaglutide Work?

Glucagon is a hormone that causes the overall glucose (sugar) level in your blood to rise, while insulin lowers it.

So, How Does Semaglutide Work?

GLP-1 receptor agonists, like semaglutide, encourage the body to produce more insulin, effectively lowering your blood sugar.

So, How Does Semaglutide Work?

At higher doses, GLP-1 receptor agonists also affect the area of the brain associated with hunger.

So, How Does Semaglutide Work?

They act on receptors to signal a feeling of fullness and reduce food cravings. In other words, you simply don’t feel as hungry any more.

So, How Does Semaglutide Work?

There are two scenarios that can help your provider decide if semaglutide is right for you. Most patients will have either:

Who Is Eligible For Semaglutide For Weight Loss?

1. A BMI of 27 and at least one weight-related health issue, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes; OR...

Who Is Eligible For Semaglutide For Weight Loss?

2. A BMI of 30, with or without any other weight-related health issues.

Who Is Eligible For Semaglutide For Weight Loss?

These are guidelines established by the FDA specifically for the use of Wegovy. Ultimately, your eligibility will be determined by your healthcare provider. 

Eligibility

The amount of weight you lose with semaglutide will depend on a few factors...

How Much Weight Will I Lose With Semaglutide?

These include your current weight, your dose, and your adherence to diet and exercise plans. That being said, most patients lose an average of 2-4 lbs per week.

How Much Weight Will I Lose With Semaglutide?

Studies have found that you can expect to lose up to 10.9% of your body weight after six months of semaglutide treatment. 

How Much Weight Will I Lose With Semaglutide?

Our clinic offers holistic, customized strategies to help each of our patients achieve their wellness goals. This includes medical weight loss, when appropriate.

Semaglutide Injections In Omaha