A Look into Semaglutide Injections: What They Are and How They Work

weight loss

Semaglutide injections are a groundbreaking medication used to manage type 2 diabetes and promote weight loss in patients with certain medical conditions. Combined with diet and exercise, this injectable helps control blood sugar levels and addresses obesity by reducing appetite. For those seeking medical weight loss Fort Lauderdale patients trust, understanding semaglutide is a step in the right direction. Keep reading to learn more.

Why Is Semaglutide Prescribed?

Originally developed as a diabetes treatment, semaglutide has become a leading option for chronic weight management. It is the first drug since Saxenda (approved in 2014) to offer a significant impact on obesity. Studies emphasize that treating obesity as a chronic metabolic condition, rather than relying solely on lifestyle changes, is essential. While semaglutide is not a miracle drug, it offers a powerful tool for individuals struggling with weight-related health challenges.

How Does the Injection Work?

The typical dose for weight loss is 2.4 milligrams, administered weekly through subcutaneous injections. Semaglutide mimics a hormone that targets areas of the brain controlling appetite, reducing hunger and calorie intake. However, it is available only by prescription, and not everyone is a candidate. Like any medication, this medical weight loss Fort Lauderdale doctors prescribe comes with possible side effects. Common ones include:

Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Constipation
Abdominal pain

These side effects are often mild and tend to subside as the body adjusts to the medication. However, in rare cases, semaglutide may lead to more serious side effects. This is why it’s crucial to discuss your medical history with your doctor to assess the risks and benefits before starting semaglutide.

Effectiveness of Semaglutide

Semaglutide has set a new standard in anti-obesity medications. In a study of 2,000 participants, those who combined semaglutide with diet and exercise lost an average of 15% of their body weight after 68 weeks, with nearly one-third losing 20%. In contrast, participants relying solely on lifestyle changes lost only 2.4%. Despite its effectiveness, studies show that discontinuing semaglutide often leads to regaining the weight lost, reinforcing the importance of sustainable lifestyle changes.

Who Should Take Semaglutide for Weight Loss?

The FDA has approved semaglutide for weight loss in individuals who meet specific criteria. It is recommended for those with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or higher or for individuals with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or higher who also have a weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. However, semaglutide injections are not suitable for everyone. Individuals with a history of medullary thyroid cancer, gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2) should avoid taking it. This is so because the medication may increase the risk of serious complications in individuals with these conditions. Before starting semaglutide, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider to determine if it is a safe and appropriate option.

Study of Semaglutide on Mental Health

A study made in 2024, analyzing data from over 3,500 participants across multiple clinical trials found no increased risk of mental health issues among those using semaglutide for weight loss. Led by Thomas Wadden, PhD, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania, the research reviewed findings from the Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People with Obesity (STEP) trials, which played a key role in the FDA’s approval of semaglutide injections. Results showed that individuals who did not have pre-existing mental health conditions experienced no increased risk of depression, suicidal thoughts, or behavioral changes while taking semaglutide.

Researchers used standardized tools, including the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale, to monitor participants over 68-week and 104-week trials. Findings remained consistent across studies, reinforcing that semaglutide does not appear to negatively impact mental health in individuals without existing psychiatric conditions. Nevertheless, further research is needed to assess the medication’s safety in populations with major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, or a history of suicide attempts.

Doctor-Supervised Medical Weight Control

A supervised medical weight loss program offers a structured approach to losing weight with professional guidance and real-time monitoring. Before starting with the semaglutide injections, our doctors track important health markers such as weight, BMI, body fat percentage, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and cholesterol levels to provide a clear picture of your progress. But more than just numbers, our program is designed to help you lose weight in a healthy, sustainable way, without constant hunger or frustration. Because our medical weight loss program takes a whole-person approach, it addresses both physical and emotional health, making long-term success more achievable. With the right support and strategies, you can reach your goals and maintain lasting results, rather than just experiencing temporary weight loss!

If you’re considering semaglutide injections for weight loss, consult your primary care physician. This medication requires proper guidance and, while it can be a valuable addition to a comprehensive weight management plan, it should be used as part of a broader strategy that includes lifestyle changes. At Peace Medical, we have over 10 years of experience helping patients successfully lose weight and keep it off, all while maintaining an exceptionally high patient satisfaction rate.

medical weight loss Fort Lauderdale