Reviewed by Dr. Kenton Bruice, MD
Reading time: four minutes
I know it’s cliche to say this, but losing weight is a journey, and a challenging one at that. If you watch tv, listen to the radio or watch YouTube, there is a chance you have heard this jingle: O-O-O-Ozempic!
Ozempic® (semaglutide) is a highly effective weight loss medication. If you are considering this treatment, you might wonder: Do I have to stay on it forever?
Let’s explore what this treatment involves and how it can help you achieve your weight loss goals
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Understanding Semaglutide
Semaglutide is an FDA-approved medication that was originally developed to help manage type 2 diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels.
During clinical trials, researchers observed that patients taking semaglutide experienced significant weight loss as a secondary benefit. This unexpected outcome led to further studies, ultimately resulting in its approval as a weight loss medication.
It is recommended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related conditions.
The medication works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 receptor agonist, which regulates appetite, food intake, and blood sugar levels.
By slowing digestion and reducing hunger, semaglutide helps individuals eat less and feel fuller longer, leading to sustainable weight loss.
The Typical Duration of Semaglutide Use for Weight Loss
The length of time you will stay on semaglutide depends on several factors, including your weight loss goals, how your body responds to the medication, and your overall health.
This process is guided by Dr. Kenton Bruice, who works closely with you to ensure your treatment is tailored and optimized to meet your unique needs.
1. Initial Phase (First Few Months)
During the initial phase, Dr. Bruice will gradually increase your dosage to minimize side effects and help your body adjust to the treatment.
This period typically lasts 8–12 weeks. Weight loss during this time varies but is often steady as your body adapts to the new appetite regulation.
To learn more about the efficacy of this medication, read How Quickly Does Semaglutide Work?
2. Active Weight Loss Phase
Once you have reached the full therapeutic dose, you will enter the active weight loss phase.
Most patients stay on semaglutide for 6–12 months during this phase, though the timeline can vary based on individual progress and goals.
Consistent weight monitoring and follow-up visits with Dr. Bruice are essential to ensure the treatment is working effectively.
3. Maintenance Phase
For many individuals, semaglutide remains a part of their weight loss treatment plan even after achieving their goal weight.
This is because weight loss maintenance can be challenging, and stopping the medication abruptly may lead to weight regain.
We may recommend continuing semaglutide injections at a maintenance dose or gradually tapering off while implementing lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise, to sustain your results.
For more information about sustained weight loss, read Beyond Semaglutide:Strategies for Maintaining Weight Loss.
Factors That Influence Duration of Use
Weight loss is complex and every person, every body, is different. Here are a few factors that will influence how long you are on the medication:
- Weight loss goals: The amount of weight you aim to lose will significantly impact how long you stay on semaglutide.
- Response to treatment: Some people respond quickly to the medication, while others may need an extended period to see results.
- Side effects: If you experience side effects, Dr. Bruice may adjust your dosage or suggest alternative treatments.
- Long-term health needs: For patients with type 2 diabetes or weight-related cardiovascular disease, longer-term use may be recommended to support overall health.
Is Long-Term Use Safe?
Research supports the safety of long-term semaglutide use for weight management.
However, it’s important to have regular check-ins with Dr. Bruice to monitor your progress and address any concerns. These visits are an opportunity to evaluate whether continuing the medication aligns with your long-term health goals.
Partner with Dr. Bruice: A Trusted Provider in Denver
At the Denver Hormone Institute of Colorado, we specialize in personalized weight loss solutions, including semaglutide treatment.
Our experienced team will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals.
We also provide guidance to help you implement sustainable lifestyle changes, such as balanced nutrition and regular physical activity, to maximize the effectiveness of your weight loss treatment.
If you are in the Denver area and want to learn more about semaglutide therapy, schedule a consultation with Dr. Bruice today. Call (303) 957-6686 or complete our online inquiry form to get started on a healthier, more confident you.
Other locations
📍St. Louis Hormone Institute of Missouri
9909 Clayton Rd, Suite 225 , St. Louis, MO
Additional Resources
Read these articles to learn more about weight loss with semaglutide: