Researchers are constantly searching for effective and safe weight loss treatments. Obesity has become a global pandemic that certainly needs urgent intervention. According to the World Health Organization, in 2022, 2.5 billion adults aged 18 years and older were overweight. This includes over 890 million adults who were living with obesity and weight-related side effects. [R]
This has given rise to the newest anti-obesity medication, semaglutide. As of 2021, it has received approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. As a diabetes medication, it has gained popularity as one of the first compounds approved for chronic weight management. This has highlighted the value of treating obesity as an actual metabolic disease. Not just as a factor of lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. However, Semaglutide is not for everyone. Here is what you need to know about Semaglutide:
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a compound known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). It is mostly known under the brand name Ozempic and has seen a surge in popularity of late under the celebrity community. Its mechanism of action involves mimicking the GLP-1 hormone. This is a natural hormone released in the gastrointestinal tract after meals.
GLP-1 plays a pivotal role in stimulating insulin production by the body, thereby lowering blood sugar levels. As a result, healthcare professionals have been employing Semaglutide for over 15 years to manage Type 2 diabetes. [R]
Elevated levels of GLP-1 influence the regions in the brain responsible for suppressing appetite. It also triggers feelings of fullness. When combined with a healthy diet and exercise habits, Semaglutide may lead to substantial weight loss. Additionally, it may reduce the risk of conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease in patients who are overweight or obese. [R]
Prescribed Semaglutide for Weight Loss
Currently, Semaglutide is approved for weight loss only under the brand name Wegovy. It is mostly administered as a subcutaneous (under the skin of patients) injection. Initially used only as a diabetes medication, it is the first compound since Saxenda (2014) to be approved for chronic weight management.[R]
Interest in semaglutide injections for weight loss has grown substantially. Healthcare professionals are constantly finding ways to meet the demand. Many are prescribing other Semaglutide brands, such as Ozempic and Rybelsus. These are off-label (using the drug for a purpose not originally approved by the FDA) alternatives.
How Does Semaglutide Work?
As mentioned above, Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist and has the potential to occupy the GLP-1 receptor in the brain. This is the receptor responsible for regulating appetite. [R]
GLP-1 has effects on weight loss in 2 potential ways:
- It targets the brain centers that regulate appetite, especially following a meal. This may help subjects consume less food.
- It has shown the potential to slow down gastric emptying, which may make subjects feel fuller for much longer.
Research Supporting Semaglutide for Weight Loss
Clinical and STEP trials have highlighted Semaglutide’s role in promoting weight loss. In test subjects with obesity or overweight users with type 2 diabetes substantial weight loss was observed. [R]
This benefit is thought to result from its impact on appetite regulation. Slow gastric emptying, and increased feelings of fullness, may inhibit food intake as supported by this research. [R]
To learn more about Semaglutide and other weight loss medications, reach out to your primary care physician or health care expert.
What are the side effects of semaglutide injections in subjects?
The side effects of Semaglutide in preliminary research are rather mild. The most common complaint by subjects is gastrointestinal discomfort. However, this has been negated by starting on lower doses. Additional side effects in studies may include dizziness, fatigue, headaches, and stomach problems. [R]
Where to Buy Semaglutide?
BC9 offers Semaglutide in a 5mg and 10mg peptide vial. However, it is important to note that BC9 sells Semaglutide for research purposes only and it is not intended for human consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Semaglutide the same compound as Ozempic and Wegovy?
Yes, Semaglutide is the active compound in both Ozempic and Wegovy. Although they contain the same active ingredient, the difference between the two lies in their approved uses and dosages.
Could Semaglutide be effective for chronic weight management?
Clinical trials have demonstrated that Semaglutide may lead to significant weight loss. Especially when combined with lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise. This makes it a potentially valuable option for those seeking chronic weight management.
What are the brand names for Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is marketed under the brand names Wegovy for weight loss management and Ozempic for type 2 diabetes.
Final Thoughts
Semaglutide’s diverse benefits make it valuable for diabetes treatment. It also offers significant potential for weight loss management.
