Obesity is a major concern for humans all over the world, and the path to weight loss remains challenging. However, a new medication, Semaglutide, has shown noteworthy effectiveness in supporting weight management goals.
Popularly known by brand names like Wegovy and Ozempic, Semaglutide is an FDA-approved drug designed to help people manage diabetes and achieve weight loss.
Let’s discuss how Semaglutide works and explore the semaglutide weight loss dosing chart.
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is primarily approved for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes but has also recently been approved for weight management under a few brands. It mimics the effects of natural glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), an incretin hormone that plays a key role in regulating blood sugar and appetite. Semaglutide has demonstrated significant clinical benefits in obese or overweight people.
Semaglutide Weight Loss Dosage Chart
The Semaglutide dosage chart is based on gradually increasing doses for better body adjustment and minimizing potential side effects. Here is the usual structure for the Semaglutide dosage chart.
Weeks | Weeks 1-4 | Weeks 5-8 | Week 9-12 | Week 13-16 | Week 17 and onwards |
Dosing Schedule | 0.25 mg Subcutaneous injection once a week | 0.5 mg Subcutaneous injection once a week | 1 mg Subcutaneous injection once a week | 1.7 mg Subcutaneous injection once a week | 2.4 mg Subcutaneous injection once a week |
Initial dose
The starting dose of Semaglutide for weight loss is 0.25 mg once a week. This low initial dose helps the body adapt to the new treatment.
Adjusting Phase
After four weeks of the initial treatment, the Semaglutide dose is increased to 0.5 mg once a week. In this phase, a step-by-step increase allows the body to adjust to the Semaglutide treatment, and get maximum benefits while minimizing side effects. During this time, the prescriber may recommend raising the dose to 1 mg based on the patient’s tolerance.
Maintenance dosing
In most obese individuals, a 1.0 mg once-weekly dosing of Semaglutide is sufficient. However, more successful weight loss results are reported from a maintenance dose of 1.7 mg or 2.4 mg once weekly in adults. The maintenance dose of Semaglutide is given starting from week 17 and onwards depending on individual response and weight loss goals.
How Does Semaglutide Work for Weight Loss?
When you eat, the stomach releases a hormone called GLP-1 which binds to GLP-1 receptors in the body that regulate blood sugar and appetite. Semaglutide works similarly to this hormone and helps in weight loss by:
Appetite regulation: Semaglutide binds to GLP-1 receptors in the hypothalamus. This leads to a reduced feeling of hunger and promotes satiety (a feeling of fullness).
Slowing gastric emptying: Semaglutide slows down the movement of food from the stomach to the intestines, which further prolongs the feeling of fullness and helps in appetite control.
Blood Sugar Control: By stimulating insulin release and reducing glucagon hormone, Semaglutide keeps blood sugar levels stable to help in weight management.
What is the maximum FDA-approved dosage of Semaglutide for weight loss?
According to the FDA, the maximum dosage of Semaglutide (Wegovy) for chronic weight management is 2.4 mg once weekly. This dose is, however, liable to work in addition to a healthy lifestyle, diet, and exercise.
How long does semaglutide take to work for Weight Loss?
Some weight loss results can appear in the first 8 weeks, however, full effects may take several months. Typically, a patient may need about 17 weeks to reach the final maintenance dose of Semaglutide and see major results. It is important to note that regular exercise and diet are key players here.
How much weight can you lose with Semaglutide?
Clinical studies suggest that taking Semaglutide for a year or more may achieve up to 15% total weight loss. Based on the available literature, an adult may lose about 35 lbs (15.9kg) on average. Although numerous clinical trials demonstrate how much weight you can lose with Semaglutide, only an experienced healthcare professional can provide the correct information.
How to Monitor Progress with Semaglutide
When starting Semaglutide treatment, working with a healthcare professional is fundamental. Here is how you can monitor your weight loss progress with Semaglutide:
- Keeping a check on your diet
- Checking weight regularly
- Regular follow-ups with healthcare provider
- Tracking weight loss progress and health markers
- Observe side effects
When do I need Semaglutide Dosage Adjustments?
You may need to reconsider Semaglutide dosage adjustments if you are:
- Experiencing any side effects
- Unresponsive to the prescribed dosage
- Develop tolerance to the current dosage
- Having any pre-existing health conditions
- Start new medications that may interact with Semaglutide
What are the factors affecting Semaglutide Dosing?
Semaglutide dosage is unique to every individual’s health conditions, requirements, and medical history. That is why there is no blanket approach for weight loss seekers to start a Semaglutide treatment regimen.
The following factors may influence Semaglutide dosing:
- Disease
- Genetics
- Age
- Body Mass Index (BMI)
- Nutritional status
- Sex/gender
- Hormonal Status
- Circadian rhythm
- Kidney Function
- Liver Function
- Immune health
What happens if I Miss a Dose of Semaglutide for Weight Loss?
As a rule of thumb, Semaglutide is supposed to be taken on the same day every week. However, there may be times when you miss a dose.
In such a situation, first of all, you have to report it to your doctor. Depending on their further suggestion, you may take the dose within 5 days after the missed dose. Make sure you take your next dose at your regular weekly time. Never take double or extra doses.
What are the Side Effects of Semaglutide?
As with all other medications, regular monitoring of Semaglutide dosage is essential to go smoothly with the treatment plan. Some of the reported side effects of Semaglutide may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. If you observe any side effects, consult your doctor right away.
Is Semaglutide right for me?
Semaglutide is supposedly the right additional support if you are struggling with obesity or are overweight. However, if you really want to know if Semaglutide is right for you, you should consult a physician who can elaborate on the potential benefits and risks.
Is Semaglutide safe?
Semaglutide has undergone substantial clinical trials and research to be considered a safe therapeutic option for FDA-approved medical conditions. However, like any medication, it might have some potential side effects. You should always discuss your medical history with your doctor before starting the medication.
How should I use this medication?
Semaglutide is available in the form of subcutaneous injection that can be administered on the thighs, abdomen, or arms. However, your physician must provide clear instructions on the proper technique and frequency of semaglutide injection.
Why am I not losing weight with Semaglutide?
A healthcare provider is essential for a comprehensive weight loss program. If you are not working closely with a healthcare provider, you may not be able to track your weight loss progress and ultimately not see any results with Semaglutide.
What are the Storage Requirements for Semaglutide?
Semaglutide injections need to be stored between the temperatures of 36°F and 46°F. They should be protected from light and heat. Keep them away from the reach of children and do not freeze the pens.
Is Semaglutide FDA-approved?
Yes, the FDA has currently approved three Semaglutide products for therapeutic use. These are Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus.
Wrapping up
Semaglutide is a clinically effective option for those struggling with obesity and weight loss issues due to its potential appetite-controlling mechanism. In this blog, we discussed the dosage chart, dosing guidelines, and other aspects involved in Semaglutide treatment. Overall, Semaglutide offers promising weight loss results when combined with proper medical guidance and lifestyle modifications.If you are interested in getting Semaglutide for weight loss in the USA, contact our experts at Prometheuz HRT.