Semaglutide is a groundbreaking medication used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes (and obesity off-label). Developed by Novo Nordisk, a leading pharmaceutical company, semaglutide belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.

Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in December 2017, semaglutide has quickly gained recognition for its efficacy in controlling blood sugar levels and aiding in weight management for individuals with type 2 diabetes. Its popularity stems from its unique mechanism of action, which mimics the effects of a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1.

How Much Can You Lose?

‍The Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People with Obesity program, or STEP, comprises a series of clinical trials funded by Novo Nordisk, utilized by the FDA during the approval process of semaglutide for obesity treatment. The STEP trials, which you can see in more detail here, consist of several separate trials all researching semaglutide for the treatment of obesity. Below is a brief overview:

The STEP Trials

• The STEP 1 trial involved 1961 participants with an average reduction in bodyweight of 14.9% over 68 weeks of treatment with a lifestyle intervention.
• The STEP 2 trial involved 1210 participants with an average reduction in bodyweight of 9.64% at the highest dose. This trial included "talks with study staff about healthy food choices, how to be more physically active and what else the participant can do to lose weight."
• The STEP 3 trial involved 611 participants with an average reduction in bodyweight of 16% over 68 weeks of treatment. This trial included "intensive behavioral therapy" along with medical treatment.
• The STEP 4 trial included 902 participants with an average reduction in bodyweight of 17.4% over 68 weeks. Like STEP 2, participants were given talks with study staff about healthy lifestyle choices.
• The STEP 5 trial included 304 participants over a treatment period of two years, with an average reduction in bodyweight of 12.6%. Interestingly, the average participant lost weight until roughly week 60, at which point they maintained their weight but did not lose much more.
• The remaining trials saw reductions of 13.2%, 15.8% and 16.1%. More STEP trials are planned but have not yet been published.

STEP Summary

‍Study results range from 9.6% to 17.4% reductions in bodyweight, most often maintained while on the medication. Compared to traditional weight loss medications like phentermine, semaglutide can provide individuals with as much as double the weight loss. Given their relative tolerability and good safety profile, it is no wonder that GLP-1s are on track to become the highest-selling medications ever produced. Results can vary by individual, but semaglutide can often help individuals lose very significant amounts of weight.

Is Semaglutide Right for You?

‍Before considering semaglutide for weight loss, it's crucial to talk to a healthcare provider like the medical team at MD Exam. We have a simple questionnaire where you share your medical history and we set you up with a personalized weight loss plan. We have seen the most success with semaglutide and tirzepatide, but we are dedicated to finding the right fit for you. No offense if you don't choose us, but please exercise caution in finding semaglutide or other popular weight loss medications online. If you're interested, you can read more about it here.

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