Semaglutide was first developed to treat type 2 diabetes. Early in 2021, this drug received approval from the FDA for long-term weight management as an adjunct to exercise and diet. However, it was the first drug treatment to be FDA-approved for weight management since 2014. It has been proven to be highly effective in weight loss, wherein patients can lose up to 15-20% of their total body weight.
Semaglutide weight loss works by increasing the amount of insulin produced by the pancreas and decreasing the amount of glucagon produced by the liver. It is administered once per week by self-injection. This drug mimics a health-promoting, naturally occurring peptide in the body (GLP-1). Studies have shown it reduces appetite and food cravings and improves control of eating, in addition to improving blood sugar control.
BENEFITS OF SEMAGLUTIDE
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Blood sugar-lowering effects without any increase in hypoglycemia
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Reduced body weight, lipids, blood pressure, inflammatory markers, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and subclinical atherosclerosis
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Suppressed appetite
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Enhanced β-cell proliferation with anti-apoptotic effects on these cells, which induces insulin synthesis
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Enhanced glucose-dependent insulin secretion
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Deescalates out-of-control glucagon levels, both in fasting and after eating
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Promotes insulin secretion from b cells, while decreasing glucagon secretion in the pancreas
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Promotes a sensation of fullness in the brain
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Slows gastric emptying in the intestines to help feel fuller, longer
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Reduces HbA1c
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Weight loss
Patients typically see a weight loss of 1 to 3 pounds per week. If you have a BMI of 27 or higher and have health problems made worse by being overweight, feel free to contact us at 703-876-9300. Our general doctors specialize in providing a wide variety of services to our patients, including adult primary care, preventative medicine, women’s health, and many more!