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How Ozempic and Wegovy Help You Lose Weight: Semaglutide Facts

Weight loss can be a challenging journey, however, there have been new advancements in medications available that can aid in weight loss. Ozempic and Wegovy are two medications that have gained popularity due to their ability to help people lose weight.  

These medications contain semaglutide, a synthetic version of a hormone that mimics the effects of eating food. In this blog post, the doctors at Gulf Coast Rehabilitation & Wellness explore what this drug is, the major medications offering it, why it helps people lose weight and the pros and cons of using it. 

What is Semaglutide? 

Semaglutide is not a newly invented drug. In fact, it has been used for years to help people manage their Type 2 diabetes. This self-injectable drug is a synthetic version of a hormone called GLP-1 that mimics the effects of eating food. When injected, it binds to GLP-1 receptors in the brain, causing a reaction that reduces appetite and makes people feel full sooner. It also slows down stomach emptying, which reduces calorie absorption and contributes to the feeling of fullness.

The fact that semaglutide was originally used to manage diabetes is significant because it means that the medication has a well-established safety profile. Doctors have been prescribing this injectable drug for years to help their diabetic patients manage their blood sugar levels, and the medication has been proven safe and effective. 

Major Medications Offering Semaglutide 

The two major medications that contain semaglutide are Ozempic and Wegovy. The main difference between the two is the design of the injector pen and the doses. Wegovy has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for weight loss, while Ozempic has not.  

Why Semaglutide Helps People Lose Weight 

It has been known to reduce cravings for unhealthy foods and helps people feel full and satiated after eating smaller meals. For people with binge eating habits or who obsessively think about food, semaglutide has helped reduce their mental preoccupation with food. 

Plus, Semaglutide has been found to significantly reduce visceral fat, the type that accumulates in the belly. 

During clinical trials, nearly 2,000 overweight or obese adults who did not have diabetes were given the same dose and lost an average of 34 pounds in less than 16 weeks. In comparison, those who received a placebo only lost six pounds on average. 

Pros and Cons of Semaglutide 

When it comes to medications, it’s important to consider both the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision. While these medications have shown promising results in weight loss, it’s important to understand how they work, what potential benefits they offer, as well as any potential drawbacks. It’s essential to have an informed conversation with your healthcare provider to decide if these medications are right for you. 

Here’s a short list of some pros and cons: 

Pros: 

• Research has shown that Semaglutide is effective in helping individuals lose weight and decrease their visceral fat. 
• It helps reduce cravings for unhealthy foods and helps people feel full and satiated after eating smaller meals 
• It can help reduce mental preoccupation with food for people with binge eating problems or obsessive thoughts about food 

Cons: 

• One of the most common side effects of Ozempic and Wegovy is nausea, which is thought to be caused by the slowing down of stomach emptying or by acid reflux 
• People must keep taking semaglutide for the medication to keep working. Once stopped, the appetite will go back to normal. 

The Risk of Obesity 

Obesity is a serious health condition that increases the risk of developing numerous health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and even certain types of cancer. Not only can obesity negatively impact your physical health, but it can also take a toll on your mental health and overall quality of life. 

While lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise are the preferred methods for managing obesity, they aren’t always enough for everyone. For those who struggle with severe obesity, weight loss medications such as semaglutide may be a lifesaver. The weight loss achieved through using this drug can lead to significant improvements in overall health and a reduced risk of developing obesity-related conditions. 

Is Semaglutide Right for You? Contact the Doctors at Gulf Coast Rehabilitation & Wellness Today 

If you’re struggling with weight loss, medical intervention may be necessary to preserve your health. With the new findings of semaglutide, there are now even safer ways for medicine to be used in weight loss plans. 

Whether you’re looking to start Semaglutide or just looking for weight-related coaching, talk to the doctors at Gulf Coast Rehabilitation & Wellness. Find a location near you!