Semaglutide is an injectable medication used for weight loss and diabetes management. It mimics a hormone called GLP-1 that targets areas of the brain that regulate appetite and food intake.
Key benefits:
How it works:
Semaglutide helps you feel fuller faster so you eat less. It also slows digestion time so you feel full longer. The end result is decreased hunger leading to reduced calorie intake and weight loss.
Semaglutide has been specifically approved for chronic weight management in adults who meet the following criteria:
✔️ BMI of 30 kg/m2 or higher (obese)
✔️ Have at least one weight-related health problem such as:
Semaglutide is not recommended as the first choice for diabetes but rather for weight loss and metabolic improvements. Lifestyle modifications should be tried first before medications.
Multiple large studies have demonstrated the superiority of semaglutide for weight loss compared to other medications:
These results exceeded other weight loss medications including liraglutide and orlistat. Semaglutide appears to be the most effective medical option for substantial and sustained weight loss available as of 2023.
| Medication | Average Weight Loss | % Losing >10% Body Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide | 15% | 75% |
| Liraglutide | 6-8% | 50-60% |
| Orlistat | 3% | 30% |
Semaglutide demonstrates superior weight loss compared to other medications
Beyond weight loss, semaglutide provides other meaningful health improvements:
The multifaceted benefits make semaglutide an excellent therapeutic option for managing obesity and metabolic disorders.
Semaglutide use is well-tolerated but some temporary GI disturbances can occur:
These typically resolve within 4-8 weeks as the body adjusts. Taking with food or slowly titrating the dose can help minimize side effects.
Semaglutide has an excellent safety profile but is not appropriate for everyone. Your physician will screen for:
In rare cases, semaglutide may cause:
Patients on semaglutide require close medical monitoring for side effects and effectiveness. Report any unusual or severe symptoms promptly to your prescribing physician.
If you struggle with obesity and related medical problems, ask your doctor about semaglutide. As a weekly injection, it offers an easy and convenient medical weight loss solution.
To get started, make sure you:
✔️ Have a BMI over 30 with weight-related illness
✔️ Get required health screening tests
✔️ Learn proper injection techniques
✔️ Begin with lifestyle counseling for nutrition and activity
Combining semaglutide injections with healthy lifestyle changes enhances weight loss success:
Adopting healthy sustainable habits while taking semaglutide leads to better outcomes
Losing weight with semaglutide is achievable but some obstacles can undermine progress:
Perceived hunger - Semaglutide curbs appetite so push past false hunger cues
Plateaus - Be patient and remember weight loss is not linear
Lifestyle habits - Keep fine-tuning nutrition and activity for maximal results
Side effects - Temporary GI issues usually resolve within 1-2 months
Affordability concerns - Many insurances cover; financial assistance may be available
With proven long-term efficacy for substantial weight reduction, semaglutide empowers patients to overcome barriers through medical and motivational mechanisms.
| Patient | Weight Loss | Improvements |
|---|---|---|
| Jane D. | 22% (52 lb) | Resolved fatty liver disease |
| Michael R. | 18% (49 lb) | Lowered A1c 2%, off insulin |
| Emily T. | 16% (38 lb) | Reduced joint pain, more mobility |
Hearing about other patient successes can inspire and motivate your own journey
At Harmonize Health, we specialize in customized outpatient longitudinal care for obesity, diabetes, and other hormone-related conditions. With compassion and clinical excellence, we empower patients to achieve sustainable lifestyle changes for improved health.
Our physicians have over 15 years of experience managing complex chronic diseases through integrative treatment plans incorporating innovations in weight loss pharmacotherapy such as semaglutide. We provide:
We meet you where you are on your path to better health, equipping you with the tools and motivation to reach your goals. To learn more or schedule a consultation, visit our website.
Don't wait - take the first step today toward a happier, healthier life!
Semaglutide is a highly effective and well-tolerated weight loss medication that can help individuals struggling with obesity and related health issues achieve significant and sustainable weight loss. When combined with lifestyle modifications, such as a balanced diet and regular physical activity, semaglutide can provide a comprehensive approach to weight management. At Harmonize Health, our experienced physicians offer personalized care and support to help patients overcome barriers and achieve their weight loss goals, leading to improved overall health and quality of life.
