Questions You May Have When Considering Semaglutide For Weight Loss

Posted on: 24 April 2023

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The weight loss drug industry has changed a lot in recent years. Stimulants are no longer your only option if you want a little medical assistance to shed those excess pounds. One medication that doctors are prescribing more often now is called semaglutide. It works by stimulating your body to produce more insulin, which helps you burn more calories rather than storing fat. It can also help curb hunger cravings, which may cause you to eat less. Semaglutide works well for many people, but it's not necessarily for everyone. Here are some questions you may have as you consider whether it's right for you.

What are the side effects?

The most common side effects of semaglutide are nausea and headaches. These do tend to go away or become less noticeable over time, so your doctor may encourage you to push through the side effects for a few weeks before deciding whether to stick with semaglutide. The medication should not make you feel jittery or on edge like a stimulant weight loss medication often does.

Can you take semaglutide if you have type II diabetes?

If you have type II diabetes, you may be used to doctors telling you that you're not a candidate for weight loss medications. But chances are, semaglutide will work for you. In fact, it was initially developed to be a medication for patients with diabetes. Doctors began prescribing it as a weight loss aid once they noticed their patients with diabetes were losing a lot of weight when taking it. If you're a type II diabetic, this is one of the very best medications to talk to your doctor about.

Are there people who should not take semaglutide?

Yes, there are some people who doctors will not prescribe this medication for. It is not appropriate for people who have kidney problems or are on dialysis. It's also not recommended for those who have a family history of certain thyroid disorders. 

How long does semaglutide take to work?

This is not an overnight weight loss solution, but patients are often surprised by how quickly they notice results. You may find that you're eating less and having fewer cravings within days of beginning semaglutide. You should notice some weight loss within a week or two, and that weight loss should continue while you keep taking the medication.

If you're interested in taking semaglutide for weight loss, talk to your doctor. They can tell you more.