Semaglutide injections for weight managment
Semaglutide is a medication used for the management of type 2 diabetes, but recent studies have shown promising results in its use for weight management. Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which are known to have an effect on reducing appetite and food intake. This medication is administered as a subcutaneous injection once a week and has been shown to be effective in promoting weight loss.
Mechanism of Action:
Semaglutide works by mimicking the effects of GLP-1, a hormone that is naturally produced in the intestines. GLP-1 helps to regulate appetite, glucose metabolism, and insulin secretion. By binding to GLP-1 receptors in the brain, semaglutide can reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness. Additionally, semaglutide has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose control, which can help to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Clinical Trials:
Several clinical trials have been conducted to investigate the efficacy of semaglutide for weight management. In one randomized controlled trial, 1,961 adults with obesity were given a weekly subcutaneous injection of semaglutide or placebo for 68 weeks. The study found that semaglutide resulted in a greater weight loss compared to the placebo group, with an average weight loss of 14.9% in the semaglutide group compared to 2.4% in the placebo group (1). Additionally, the semaglutide group had greater improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and glycemic control.
Another randomized controlled trial investigated the use of semaglutide for weight management in individuals without diabetes. The study included 1,961 adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related comorbidity. The participants were randomized to receive a once-weekly injection of semaglutide or placebo for 68 weeks. The results showed that the semaglutide group had a greater weight loss compared to the placebo group, with an average weight loss of 16.0% in the semaglutide group compared to 5.7% in the placebo group (2).
Semaglutide has also been shown to be effective in maintaining weight loss. In a 68-week extension study, participants who had completed the initial 68-week trial were given the option to receive semaglutide or placebo for an additional 48 weeks. The results showed that participants who continued to receive semaglutide maintained their weight loss while those who switched to placebo regained some of the weight they had lost during the initial trial (3).
While semaglutide has shown promising results for weight management, it is important to note that it is not a standalone treatment for obesity. It should be used in combination with lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet and exercise. Additionally, the medication can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is important for individuals to speak with their healthcare provider to determine if semaglutide is an appropriate treatment option for them.
Safety:
Overall, semaglutide has been shown to be safe and well-tolerated in clinical trials. The most common side effects reported include nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. However, these side effects were generally mild and resolved over time. There have also been concerns about the potential risk of pancreatitis and thyroid cancer with GLP-1 receptor agonists, but the evidence is limited and inconclusive at this time.
Conclusion:
Semaglutide has emerged as a promising medication for weight management, with significant reductions in body weight and improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors observed in clinical trials. However, it is important to note that semaglutide is not a magic bullet for weight loss, and should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise. As with any medication, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.
References:
Davies MJ, Bergenstal R, Bode B, et al. Efficacy of Liraglutide for Weight Loss Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: The SCALE Diabetes Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. 2015;314(7):687-699. doi:10.1001/jama.2015.9676le Roux, C. W., Astrup, A., Fujioka, K., Greenway, F., Lau, D. C., Van Gaal, L., ... & Shapiro, A. (2021). 3.0 mg of semaglutide
FDA approves semaglutide for weight management in adults with obesity. FDA. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-semaglutide-weight-management-adults-obesity. Published June 4, 2021. Accessed March 10, 2023.
Wilding, J. P., Batterham, R. L., Calanna, S., Davies, M., Van Gaal, L. F., Lingvay, I., ... & Gantz, I. (2021). Once‐weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity. New England Journal of Medicine, 384(11), 989-1002.
Author:
Barbara Agbo APRN, FNP-BC
Date: 04/01/2023