If you’re exercising regularly and following a healthy diet, it can be frustrating to not see the weight loss you’re hoping for. Semaglutide, also known as “The Fat Shot,” may be able to help in certain cases. Approved by the FDA in 2021, it was initially solely used as a medication for diabetes and has since been proved effective in helping people lose weight. Our providers at Sanjay Athavale, MD will partner with you to determine whether semaglutide is an appropriate treatment for you.
How Does Semaglutide Work?
Administered weekly as a self-injection under the skin, semaglutide mimics the hormone released in the gut after we eat. This hormone connects with the parts of the brain that tell us when we feel full. In combination with diet and exercise, it can help with weight loss.
Who Can Use Semaglutide For Weight Loss?
The FDA recommends semaglutide if one of the following applies:
- You have a body mass index (BMI) of 27kg/m2 or higher and at least one weight-related condition like high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol.
- You have a BMI of 30kg/m2 or higher.
You should not take semaglutide if you have a history of:
- Medullary thyroid cancer
- Gallbladder disease
- Pancreatitis
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)
What Do Studies Say?
According to an early study, half of participants using semaglutide in combination with diet and exercise lost 15% of their body weight. Participants who only focused on lifestyle changes lost about 2.4% of their weight. Additional studies have shown similar results but have also found that participants often regain weight when they stop taking semaglutide. You should talk to your doctor prior to stopping this medication.
If you’re interested in starting semaglutide, providers at Sanjay Athavale, MD can help you learn more about this treatment and determine if it’s a good fit for your needs. Get in touch today to begin taking steps toward achieving your ideal appearance.
Call Sanjay Athavale, MD at (770) 217-6224 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
