Tech Doc: Do Injections that treat Type 2 Diabetes really help with weight loss?

Drew Payne, D.O.
·3 min read
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Obesity is a global epidemic and a significant public health concern affecting West Texans as well. According to the World Health Organization, obesity rates have almost tripled since 1975, with more than 1.9 billion adults being overweight in 2016, including 650 million classified as obese.

A 2020 study by Texas Tech Physicians revealed that 75% of West Texas patients were either overweight or obese. The risks associated with obesity include chronic conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke and specific types of cancer. Given the gravity of serious health risks caused by obesity, it is crucial to find effective weight loss treatments, and Semaglutide may provide a potential solution.

Payne
Payne

Semaglutide, a GLP-1 agonist, is an FDA-approved medication used for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. Clinical trials have shown that it also can aid in weight loss when combined with a nutritious diet. Among the brand names for Semaglutide are Ozempic, approved by the FDA for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, and Wegovy, approved by the FDA for the treatment of weight loss in patients that have a body mass index (BMI) above 27 with one comorbidity or for those with a BMI above 30. As far as the human body is concerned, they are the same medication.

Semaglutide works by activating the GLP-1 receptor, which leads to glucose dependent insulin release and decreased glucagon secretion, ultimately resulting in reduced appetite and increased satiety.

According to a study, “Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity,” published in the New England Journal of Medicine, Semaglutide was effective in reducing body weight by up to 15%. This reduction in weight has been observed in patients with and without diabetes, indicating its effectiveness in a broad range of individuals. While often not as effective, other GLP-1 medications can help with weight loss as well.

Additionally, these medications have been shown to improve other health markers, such as reducing blood pressure and improving glycemic control. Essentially, these medications reverse health problems.

Furthermore, GLP-1 agonists are relatively safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effects reported in clinical trials were gastrointestinal, such as nausea and diarrhea, but these were typically mild and temporary. Most importantly, GLP-1 agonists should only be used under the supervision of a health care professional and in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise plan.

Finally, Semaglutide may have positive effects on mental health. Studies have shown that individuals who experience significant weight loss may have improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety.

In summary, GLP-1 agonists, particularly Semaglutide, may present a highly effective option for weight loss treatment. Its ability to reduce body weight by up to 15%, combined with its safety and tolerability, gives hope to those grappling with obesity. Furthermore, Semaglutide may offer additional health benefits, such as improved blood pressure, glycemic control and positive impacts on mental health.

Taking the first step on your weight loss journey is important, so make sure you get advice from a health care professional about following a healthy diet and exercise program.

Drew Payne, D.O., is director of the Texas Tech Physicians Obesity Clinic and an associate professor in the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Department of Internal Medicine.

This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Tech Doc: Do Injections that treat Type 2 Diabetes really help with weight loss?