Is Semaglutide a Safe Weight Loss Option?

Semaglutide is a medication that’s gained high popularity due to its ability to help people lose weight. If you’re thinking about adding semaglutide to your weight loss plan — but you worry about its safety — we’re here to address your concerns.

With its booming popularity nationwide, you’ve likely heard the buzz about semaglutide. If you’re on a weight loss journey and haven’t found success through diet, exercise, and other healthy lifestyle choices, you may wonder if semaglutide can help you reach your goals.

At Houston Cosmetic Surgery Center in Houston, Texas, board-certified cosmetic surgeon David Davila, DO, FACOS, leads our expert team in offering medical weight loss programs, which combine our medical expertise with effective weight loss methods. Sometimes, these customized treatment plans can include prescription medications, such as semaglutide.

Should you choose it as part of your weight loss plan? Read on as we discuss how semaglutide works and review its safety and efficacy, so you can decide whether it may be right for you.

What is semaglutide?

Semaglutide is part of a group of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor antagonists. These drugs seek to imitate a hormone that’s produced in your gut to help slow down digestion, regulate blood sugar, and reduce appetite and cravings.

The main goals of semaglutide are to help you feel full quickly and for longer and also eliminate cravings, which should, in turn, give you more success in your weight-loss journey. Studies tell us that semaglutide has been incredibly effective for weight loss. One study even reported that many people who’ve taken it lost 11% of their body weight within six months.

Like any weight loss medication, it’s most effective when supported by other proven weight control efforts, including decreased calorie intake and regular exercise.

Who qualifies for semaglutide?

There are a few qualifications you must meet in order to be considered a candidate for prescription weight loss medications such as semaglutide. These include:

Having a body mass index (BMI) over 30
Having a BMI over 27 in addition to a weight-related condition, such as diabetes
Having difficulty losing weight through traditional methods

You shouldn’t consider semaglutide if you have a history of gallbladder disease, thyroid cancer, or pancreatitis.

Is semaglutide safe?

Semaglutide is generally considered safe for weight loss with a few notable caveats. You should never get semaglutide injections from anyone other than a licensed and certified professional, such as our team at Houston Cosmetic Surgery Center.

Like any other medication, semaglutide can cause unpleasant side effects. These include symptoms related to your digestive system, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Medication for nausea is available under Dr. Davila’s care.

As long as you take your semaglutide, stay hydrated, and eat to our specifications, you can rest assured that you can safely lose weight and finally achieve your goals.

To learn more about semaglutide injections or any of our other medical weight loss methods, schedule a consultation at Houston Cosmetic Surgery Center in Houston, Texas, today.