Weight loss outcomes can differ from person to person. In a 68-week clinical study involving 1,961 adults with obesity or excess weight and related health conditions, individuals using semaglutide lost about 35 pounds on average, which equals roughly 15% of their body weight. Those who received a placebo experienced an average reduction of around 6 pounds, or about 2.5%.
Participants in the study began at an average weight of approximately 232 pounds. Eligibility included adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or 27 and above with conditions like high blood pressure or elevated cholesterol, while individuals with type 2 diabetes were not included. Alongside medication, all participants followed a lower-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Around 7% of those using semaglutide discontinued due to side effects, compared to 3.1% in the placebo group.
Study Reference: STEP 1 Trial — Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Calanna S, et al. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. New England Journal of Medicine. 2021;384:989–1002.
Most patients begin noticing changes within the first 1 to 3 months of treatment. Many report reduced appetite and fewer cravings within the first few weeks, with visible weight loss following shortly after.
That said, results can vary based on factors like metabolism, consistency with treatment, nutrition, activity level, and overall health. Some individuals may see changes sooner, while others may progress more gradually.
Your healthcare provider will help set clear, realistic expectations based on your specific goals and medical profile.
Traveling with injectable medication is typically allowed in your carry-on luggage. Be sure to keep it with the prescription it belongs to, ideally in its original packaging or with proof of prescription. If you plan to use it during travel, bringing a proper sharps container is recommended for safe disposal.
Security regulations require that you inform TSA officers about your medication at the checkpoint. While labeling is not mandatory, it can help make the screening process smoother.
You can administer your dose at any time of day that fits your routine. Consistency matters most, so aim to take it on the same day each week.
Adjusting your schedule is possible as long as at least 72 hours have passed since your last dose.
If you have any further questions about changing your dosing schedule or want to make sure it’s done correctly, it’s best to check with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
If the upcoming dose is more than 72 hours away, go ahead and take the missed dose when you remember. If it’s within 72 hours of your next dose, leave out the missed one and return to your usual schedule.
Missing doses for over two weeks requires guidance from your healthcare provider to safely resume treatment.
This medication can be taken with or without meals, depending on your preference.
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Curious about GLP-1 medications or wondering if medical weight loss fits your goals?
Starting this journey can feel uncertain, which is why experienced professionals are available to answer your questions before you commit to anything.
This conversation is simply an opportunity to learn more, including:
