Semaglutide, a revolutionary compound in the fight against type 2 diabetes and obesity, has gained significant attention for its efficacy and versatility. As a long-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, semaglutide offers promise not only for those managing diabetes but also for individuals seeking weight loss solutions.
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a synthetic version of the naturally occurring hormone GLP-1, which plays a vital role in glucose metabolism and appetite regulation. Approved for use in treating type 2 diabetes, semaglutide has also shown significant efficacy in weight management, leading to its use in treating obesity.
Semaglutide represents a significant advancement in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Its dual role in improving glycemic control and facilitating weight loss, along with its cardiovascular benefits, positions it as a powerful tool in managing these interrelated health issues.
How It Works
Semaglutide mimics the action of GLP-1 by binding to its receptors in the pancreas, enhancing the release of insulin in response to elevated blood glucose levels. It also slows gastric emptying, contributing to a feeling of fullness, and inhibits the release of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood glucose levels. Together, these actions help control blood sugar levels and reduce appetite.
Semaglutide Benefits
Improved Glycemic Control
Semaglutide effectively lowers blood glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes, reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications.
Weight Management
By promoting satiety and reducing appetite, semaglutide supports weight loss efforts, making it a valuable tool in obesity treatment.
Cardiovascular Health
Studies have shown that semaglutide lowers the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, in people with type 2 diabetes.
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Semaglutide for Weight Loss in Non-Diabetics
The weight loss effects of semaglutide extend beyond the diabetic population. In non-diabetic individuals struggling with obesity or overweight, semaglutide can facilitate significant weight reduction. Clinical trials have demonstrated its ability to promote substantial and sustainable weight loss, offering a new hope for those who have not achieved their weight goals through diet and exercise alone.
Semaglutide Dosage and Administration
The guidelines for subcutaneous semaglutide injections in the treatment of type 2 diabetes are detailed in the Ozempic brand drug labeling as follows:
- The starting dose is 0.25mg; once a week for 4 weeks.
- After 4 weeks, the weekly dose is increased to 0.50mg.
- The dosage may be increased to up to 2mg per week if additional glycemic control is needed.
- Injections should be performed on the same day each week.
- Missed doses should be administered within 5 days with the following dose delivered according to schedule.
Semaglutide Dosage for Weight Loss
When used for chronic weight management, semaglutide is to be dosed according to the following Wegovy brand prescribing information:
- The starting dose of 0.25mg; once weekly should be maintained for 4 weeks.
- Following the initial four weeks, the weekly dose should be increased based on the following schedule: 500mcg/weekly at weeks 5-8; 1mg/weekly at weeks 9-12; 1.7mg/weekly at weeks 13-16; 2.4mg/weekly at weeks 17 and onward.
- Missed doses must be delivered within 5 days.
- If the subject cannot tolerate a minimum dose of 1.7mg a week, discontinuation of treatment is advised.
It is important to know that the dosage used in clinical trials that demonstrated efficacy was 2.4 mg of semaglutide administered once weekly, alongside lifestyle interventions. However, it’s recommended to begin with a lower dose and gradually increase it to build your tolerance.
References:
Chao AM, Tronieri JS, Amaro A, Wadden TA. Semaglutide for the treatment of obesity. Trends Cardiovasc Med. 2023 Apr;33(3):159-166. doi: 10.1016/j.tcm.2021.12.008. Epub 2021 Dec 21. PMID: 34942372; PMCID: PMC9209591.
Garvey WT, Batterham RL, Bhatta M, Buscemi S, Christensen LN, Frias JP, Jódar E, Kandler K, Rigas G, Wadden TA, Wharton S; STEP 5 Study Group. Two-year effects of semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity: the STEP 5 trial. Nat Med. 2022 Oct;28(10):2083-2091. doi: 10.1038/s41591-022-02026-4. Epub 2022 Oct 10. PMID: 36216945; PMCID: PMC9556320.
Smits MM, Van Raalte DH. Safety of Semaglutide. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2021 Jul 7;12:645563. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2021.645563. Erratum in: Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2021 Nov 10;12:786732. PMID: 34305810; PMCID: PMC8294388.
Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Calanna S, Davies M, Van Gaal LF, Lingvay I, McGowan BM, Rosenstock J, Tran MTD, Wadden TA, Wharton S, Yokote K, Zeuthen N, Kushner RF; STEP 1 Study Group. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2021 Mar 18;384(11):989-1002. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2032183. Epub 2021 Feb 10. PMID: 33567185.