You may have heard friends talk about weekly weight loss shots. Many of them are using semaglutide for weight loss, a medication that works with your body’s own appetite signals. In this guide, we explain how it works in plain language, so you can have a clear talk with your provider.
What Is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide belongs to a group of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. GLP-1 is a hormone your gut releases after you eat. Because semaglutide acts like this hormone, it helps you feel full sooner and stay full longer.
Brand-name semaglutide for chronic weight management is sold as Wegovy, and it is FDA-approved for certain adults. However, the FDA notes that compounded versions are not FDA-approved, so ask your provider which option you are being offered.
How Semaglutide for Weight Loss Works in Your Body
- Less hunger: it acts on appetite areas in the brain, so cravings often feel quieter.
- Slower stomach emptying: food stays in the stomach longer, which also helps you feel full.
- Steadier blood sugar: it helps the body release insulin when blood sugar rises.
As a result, many people eat smaller portions without feeling as hungry. Still, the medication works best together with healthy eating and regular activity.
Who May Qualify?
In general, FDA-approved semaglutide for weight management is meant for adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with a weight-related condition. For example, those conditions include high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Your provider reviews your full health history first, since some people should not take it.
For instance, people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer, or MEN 2 syndrome, should not use GLP-1 medications of this type.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects are stomach-related, such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and constipation. They often show up when the dose goes up. That is why doses usually start low and increase slowly over several weeks.
Also, call your provider right away if you have severe stomach pain or other serious symptoms.
What to Expect at Allure
First, you meet with La’Shawnta Jackson, PA-C, for a consultation. Then, if semaglutide is a good fit, you get a plan with dose steps, nutrition tips and regular check-ins. Many patients also track progress with an InBody580 scan. Learn more on our Semaglutide in Riverside page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do you take semaglutide?
Semaglutide for weight management is a once-weekly injection, and your provider sets the dose schedule.
Can I stop taking it?
Talk with your provider first, since many people regain weight after stopping without a plan.
Book a consultation at Allure Medical Weight Control & Wellness, 141 E Alessandro Blvd, Suite 10C-1, Riverside, CA 92508, or call 951-374-0127. Walk-ins are welcome Tuesday through Saturday.
This article is for general education and is not medical advice. Treatment eligibility is determined by a licensed provider after an evaluation, and individual results vary.