Obesity is a global pandemic. This multifaceted health issue has created a litany of different theories on the etiology and an endless number of “solutions” yet none seem to make a real dent in the issue. One of these solutions is weight loss drugs. For the most part, many weight loss drugs have failed miserably. Phen Phen which gained popularity in the 90’s was quickly pulled from shelves after a frightening number of deaths and cardiac episodes. Other drugs such as phentermine are amphetamine based. These have unpleasant side effects like anxiety, insomnia and even dependency. Despite these failures, pharmaceutical companies continue with their search for the perfect weight loss drugs. Recently, one in particular is gaining traction; Semaglutide, which is sold under name brands such as Ozempic, Wegovy or Saxenda. What exactly is this drug and is it really effective for weight loss?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 inhibitor. This medication’s original use was for the treatment of diabetes. Semaglutides activate a regulatory protein found in the beta cells of the pancreases. This stimulates the release of insulin which lowers blood sugar levels. Medical practitioners soon realized patients prescribed this medication were losing weight. Eventually this class of medications was approved for the off-label use of weight loss. This drug appears to be safe as it has been available on the market for years with very few negative effects reported. Compared to other weight loss drugs, Semaglutides are achieving greater success at weight loss. Numerous randomized control trials have reported between 6 and 12% of body weight loss with this medication. There are a few mechanism of action thought to responsible for weight loss. First, user report lower levels of hunger, early satiety and prolonged feelings. Gastric emptying is delayed when taking this medication would most likely explains its effects on satiation and satiety. Some theorize this medication even influences how the body metabolizes food but this is less clear. In short, this medication aids in users in achieving a calorie deficit though deceased hunger and increase satiety.