What is it?
By now you must have heard of Ozempic, the wonder weight loss injection that’s changed the lives of celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, and Sharon and Kelly Osbourne, amongst others. Semaglutide, a GLP-1 agonists, is a medication primarily used to control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It also lowers the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke in individuals with type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Semaglutide acts by imitating a hormone in the body that triggers insulin secretion. This slows down the rate at which food leaves the stomach, making one feel full for longer, while controlling the blood glucose levels. Obese people with a body mass index (BMI) over 30 benefit the most, and can lose weight rapidly from these injections.
Dosage, time to action
Using Semaglutide solely for weight loss is considered an "off-label" use, and the medication is not FDA-approved for weight loss. It is administered via a once-weekly injection using a dose pen, and the starting dose is typically 0.25 mg, which may be increased based on the individual's response to the medication. Patients may begin to notice weight loss within the first few weeks of starting treatment.
Higher doses have been shown to increase the rate of weight loss, until the target weight is reached. The challenge is how to maintain the weight loss, and maintenance dosing at 0.25mg or lower may be indicated to prevent rebound weight gain. Most people report gaining about 50% of the weight back after stopping Semaglutide therapy.
Benefits and side effects
The benefits of Semaglutide extend beyond blood sugar control and weight loss. It has been shown to improve cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular issues like strokes and heart attacks.
Common side effects of Semaglutide include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and constipation. These are usually mild and tend to subside over time. Serious side effects can occur, including stomach paralysis, gallstones or pancreatitis and it is crucial to seek medical attention if these arise. It is important to drink adequate amounts of water while on Semaglutide therapy.
Plastic surgery
In the context of significant weight loss, whether through medication like Ozempic or surgery, plastic surgery may play a role in addressing excess skin. Procedures such as body contouring, tummy tucks, and breast lifts can remove loose skin and improve the shape and tone of the body's tissue. This is often considered the final step in a person's weight loss journey, helping to achieve a more desired body shape and alleviate discomfort from excess skin.
It is essential for individuals to consult with healthcare professionals to understand the potential benefits and risks of both medication and surgical options in the context of weight management and overall health
Dr Brian Monaisa will be one of the speakers at The Star’s “The Choice is Yours“ women’s event next month.
The Star