Semaglutide has recently become a buzzword, raising curiosity and prompting questions about its widespread popularity. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, it falls into a class of medications known for their remarkable anti-diabetes effects. But what exactly is semaglutide, and why is it generating so much interest?
Dr. Naima Cheema at Nexclin Medicine in Roswell, Georgia, is one of the leading experts in all things semaglutide and explains the uptick in its usage and popularity.
To understand why semaglutide is so popular, you have to know what it is and how it works.
Essentially, semaglutide mimics the GLP-1 hormone, which your gut naturally releases after eating. One of the primary roles of GLP-1 is to stimulate the production of insulin, which reduces your blood sugar levels. This reaction explains why people with type 2 diabetes rely on this medication — sold under the brand names Wegovy® and Ozempic®.
Semaglutide has recently caught the attention of both the medical community and people seeking a solution for weight loss.
In addition to its glucose-lowering properties, GLP-1 in higher concentrations also interacts with specific parts of your brain that regulate appetite and satiety. Semaglutide shows great potential for helping you lose significant weight when combined with proper diet and exercise.
But wait; there’s more.
Semaglutide may also help you avoid certain cancers by restoring anticancer cells that lose effectiveness when you’re overweight or obese.
Along with a reduced risk of cancer, a stellar diabetes treatment, and a way to manage obesity, semaglutide also comes with significant cardiovascular benefits. Studies show that Wegovy reduces severe cardiac events by 20%.
Studies involving nondiabetic people show semaglutide’s effectiveness for weight loss. For example, a 2021 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine on 2,000 obese adults revealed that participants who combined semaglutide with dietary and exercise changes experienced remarkable results.
After 68 weeks, half of the participants using semaglutide achieved a staggering 15% weight loss, and nearly a third reached an impressive 20% weight reduction. On the other hand, those who relied solely on lifestyle modifications managed only 2.4% weight loss.
It’s worth noting that discontinuing semaglutide often leads to weight regain, so you’ll need to establish lifestyle changes for long-term weight management. While semaglutide offers a valuable tool in the fight against obesity, Dr. Cheema recommends using it in conjunction with healthy eating habits and regular physical activity.
The Food and Drug Administration approved Wegovy as a weight loss aid in 2021, but many experienced and knowledgeable physicians like Dr. Cheema prescribe the medication “off label” to treat other health conditions.
Semaglutide’s rising popularity stems from the fact that it offers renewed hope for people struggling with weight loss.
As research and awareness increase, the demand for semaglutide will continue to soar, but Dr. Cheema cautions her patients about thinking of semaglutide as a “miracle” drug. She carefully evaluates your clinical history and tailors your treatment accordingly.
As the semaglutide phenomenon unfolds, staying informed and working closely with Dr. Cheema will produce the best results.
Book an appointment online or call Nexclin Medicine to learn more about semaglutide.
