Many weight loss drugs of the past have had questionable results — but Semaglutide is a game changer for the future of weight control. These newer medications work on a different physiologic pathway than some of the other medicines. Whereas previous anti-obesity drugs may decrease the amount of dietary fat absorbed by the body, Semaglutide affects hormones involved in hunger and fullness.
Semaglutide essentially mimics a hormone that stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin, in turn lowering blood sugar, reducing cravings, and slowing digestion. All these mechanisms keep you feeling satisfied and prevent you from overeating, ultimately leading to weight loss. Patients who have taken Semaglutide have reported feeling full on smaller portions, and many describe a reduction in “food noise” — ever-present thoughts about eating and food.
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that in patients with obesity and heart failure, Semaglutide significantly reduced symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath. It also led to notable improvements in physical abilities and exercise function.
Additional research sponsored by the drug’s manufacturer Novo Nordisk found Semaglutide reduced the risk of stroke and heart attack by 20% in people with obesity and a history of cardiovascular disease. While more research is still needed, these findings suggest Semaglutide could potentially help lower the risk of adverse cardiovascular events in certain high-risk populations.