Clinical Trials When Semaglutide was injected subcutaneously once a week for 68 weeks, trial participants achieved significant weight loss and other health benefits summarized here: 86% of people achieved at least 5% weight loss, 70% at least 10%, over 50% at least 15%, and one-third at least 20% at 68 weeks 3.7-inch reduction in waist circumference 4.6 decrease in BMI 5 mmHg decrease in systolic blood pressure Lowered fasting blood glucose levels Reduced total cholesterol, VLDL, triglycerides and free fatty acids Lowered C-reactive protein levels (marker of inflammation) Reduced risk of heart attack and stroke Weight loss plateaued at 60 weeks Depicted in the following chart is the observed weight change from the trial: Cardiovascular Benefits In a 3297 type II diabetic patient trial, 83% of participants having cardiovascular disease and/or chronic kidney disease, showed an improvement of kidney function and a decrease in adverse events as follows: 6 Disease Placebo Semaglutide Stroke 2.7% 1.6% Heart attack 3.9% 2.9% CV death 8.9% 6.6% Side Effects and Safety The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation
This is a distinct product from Rybelsus (oral semaglutide 7mg/14mg), which remains licensed for type 2 diabetes mellitus only and is not indicated for weight management in other patients, a distinction that pharmacists should be clear on when counselling patients who may confuse the two 11
Alternatives to Wegovy for weight loss include the following medications: Qsymia (phentermine/topiramate): This combination medication can help with weight loss by suppressing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness
Rates of melanoma have risen along with the use of tanning beds in recent years, disproportionately affecting young women, who are the main clients of the tanning industry
