Are Semaglutide Injections Safe?

Studies show that people who work with their doctors to lose weight drop more pounds than those who take a DIY approach. 

The difference is in the personalization. Weight loss is complex and involves multiple variables. No diet designed for the masses works for everyone.

At Rebuil-T Healthcare in Georgetown, Texas, we offer medically supervised weight loss services that start from scratch and build on your unique metabolism needs and health issues. 

In addition to customized nutrition plans and exercise routines, our experienced nurse practitioner, Hellen Ndungu, FNP, prescribes evidence-based medications that give you a boost and help you reach your health goals. 

Semaglutide (brand name Wegovy®) is one of the most effective. Here’s an overview of how it works, its efficacy, and its safety. 

Get to know semaglutide

Semaglutide began as a medication to treat type 2 diabetes, but researchers, physicians, and patients discovered it also helps with weight loss.

Countless trials and studies later, semaglutide is now approved as an injectable weight-loss medication. It mimics a hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), crucial in blood sugar regulation and appetite control. 

If you’re struggling with obesity or weight-related health issues, semaglutide can be a game-changer. When you eat fewer calories and get more physical activity, semaglutide helps you shed unwanted pounds. 

How does semaglutide help you lose weight?

The science behind semaglutide is fascinating — it works with your body in three ways to drop unhealthy weight.

Appetite suppression

By activating GLP-1 receptors in your brain, semaglutide reduces hunger and food intake and makes it easier to stick to a low-calorie diet.

Slowed gastric emptying

Semaglutide also slows down gastric emptying, which means food stays in your stomach longer. Feeling full helps you curb food consumption and reduce overall calorie intake. The combination of lowered appetite and prolonged satiety creates a powerful one-two punch for weight loss.

Enhanced insulin sensitivity

Semaglutide also enhances insulin sensitivity, which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. Stable blood sugar reduces cravings and prevents blood sugar spikes and crashes that often lead to overeating.

Is semaglutide safe?

You’re right to question the safety of semaglutide and all drugs. Hellen Ndungu thoroughly vets all treatments before offering them at Rebuil-T Healthcare. Here’s what the latest research shows about semaglutide:

FDA approval and clinical trials

The FDA approved semaglutide for weight loss in 2021 based on extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety. One such study, the STEP (Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People with Obesity) trials, involved over 4,500 participants and showed that those taking semaglutide lost significantly more weight than those on a placebo.

Long-term safety data

Long-term safety data is crucial for any medication, and semaglutide has shown promising results. Studies have indicated that the benefits of weight loss and improved glycemic control outweigh the potential risks. 

Prescribing semaglutide safety 

Before we prescribe semaglutide and before you take it, we have to check a few safety boxes:

Medical history and current medications

Before starting semaglutide, we take a complete medical history. We discuss existing medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, pancreatitis, or kidney problems, and all medications you’re currently taking, as some drugs may interact with semaglutide.

Allergies and sensitivities

Tell us if you have any known allergies or sensitivities, especially to medications. 

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Let us know if you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. While semaglutide can be an effective weight loss tool, its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding hasn’t been fully established.

Potential side effects of semaglutide

Like all medications, semaglutide can cause side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. They’re usually mild and tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medication.

Serious Side Effects

While rare, serious side effects can occur, such as pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and kidney issues. If you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of dehydration, call us immediately.

Managing side effects

To minimize side effects, we may start you on a lower dose of semaglutide and gradually increase it to allow your body to adjust and reduce the likelihood of adverse reactions. 

In 2021 alone, over 2 million Americans took semaglutide for weight loss — three times as many as in 2019. If you want to join the millions who are dropping pounds faster and reaching their health goals sooner, call Rebuil-T Healthcare to schedule an appointment.