Drew Payne, DO
Obesity is a global epidemic and a major public health concern that also affects West Texans. According to the World Health Organization, obesity rates have nearly tripled since 1975, with more than 1.9 billion adults overweight in 2016, of whom 650 million are classified as obese. It is
A 2020 study by doctors at Texas Tech University found that 75% of patients in West Texas are overweight or obese. Risks associated with obesity include chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. Given the severity of the serious health risks posed by obesity, finding an effective weight loss treatment is critical, and semaglutide may be a potential solution.
The GLP-1 agonist semaglutide is an FDA-approved drug used to treat type 2 diabetes. Clinical studies have shown that it can also help with weight loss when combined with a nutritious diet. Brand names for semaglutide include Ozempic, which is FDA-approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, and Ozempic, which is FDA-approved for the treatment of weight loss in patients with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 27 and one comorbidity. There is Wegovy. As far as the human body is concerned, these are the same drugs.
Semaglutide works by activating the GLP-1 receptor, resulting in decreased glucose-dependent insulin release and glucagon secretion, ultimately resulting in decreased appetite and increased satiety.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, “Semaglutide Once Weekly in Overweight or Obese Adults,” found that semaglutide was effective in reducing body weight by up to 15%. This weight loss has been observed in both diabetic and non-diabetic patients and has been shown to benefit a wide range of individuals. His other GLP-1 medications help with weight loss as well, though often less effectively.
Additionally, these agents have been shown to improve other health markers, such as lowering blood pressure and improving glycemic control. Basically, these drugs improve health problems.
Moreover, GLP-1 agonists are relatively safe and well tolerated. The most common side effects reported in clinical trials were gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea and diarrhea, which were usually mild and temporary. Most importantly, GLP-1 agonists should only be used under the supervision of a medical professional and in combination with a healthy diet and exercise regimen.
Finally, semaglutide may have positive effects on mental health. Studies have shown that people who experience significant weight loss may experience improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety.
In summary, GLP-1 agonists, especially semaglutide, may be highly effective options for weight loss treatment. Its ability to reduce weight by up to 15%, combined with its safety and tolerability, gives hope to those grappling with obesity. In addition, semaglutide may offer additional health benefits such as improved blood pressure, glycemic control, and positive effects on mental health.
Taking the first steps on your weight loss journey is important, so be sure to get advice from your healthcare professional about following a healthy diet and exercise program.
Dr. Drew Payne is the Director of the Texas Tech University Physician Obesity Clinic and Associate Professor of Internal Medicine at the Texas Tech Health Science Center.