Reviewed by Dr. Kenton Bruice, MD
Reading time: five minutes
Semaglutide is a medication that has gained popularity in recent years due to its effectiveness in promoting weight loss.
A common question that we get asked is: How quickly does semaglutide work? If you are considering semaglutide treatment, you have probably asked this question – and for good reason! It’s important to have realistic expectations and understand how long it may take for you to see results.
In this article, Dr. Kenton Bruice, MD, explains how semaglutide works and provides realistic time frames for its effects. He will also share tips on how to maximize the results of the medication and what to expect throughout your weight loss journey.
Table of Contents
Understanding Semaglutide
Semaglutide is a type of medication known as a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It works by mimicking the action of a hormone called GLP-1 in the body, which helps to regulate blood sugar levels and suppress appetite. This leads to a decrease in food intake and an increase in weight loss.
Semaglutide is typically prescribed for people with obesity or overweight individuals who have certain health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. It is taken as a once-weekly injection and has been shown to be highly effective in promoting weight loss.
Realistic Time Frames for Semaglutide’s Effects
It’s important to remember that everyone’s body responds differently to medication, so it is difficult to give an exact timeframe for how quickly semaglutide will work.
Week 1: Starting the Journey
In the first week of taking semaglutide, you may not notice any significant changes in your weight or appetite. However, some people may experience mild side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or constipation. These usually subside within a few days.
Week 2-4: Beginning to See Results
As your body gets used to the medication, you may start to see some changes in your weight and appetite. Most people begin to experience a decrease in their appetite, leading to a reduction in food intake and subsequent weight loss. However, individual results may vary.
Month 1-3: Continued Progress
By the end of the first month, you should start to see noticeable changes in your weight. On average, people taking semaglutide can expect to lose around 5% of their body weight within the first three months. This is a significant amount and can have a positive impact on overall health.
Beyond Month 3: Long-Term Effects
Semaglutide has been shown to be effective in promoting sustainable weight loss over an extended period. As long as you continue taking the medication and maintain a healthy lifestyle, you may continue to see progress beyond the initial three-month mark. Over a 68-week period, consistent improvements in body weight and blood sugar control can be expected.
Tips for Maximizing Results with Semaglutide
Semaglutide is just one piece of the weight loss journey. To achieve weight loss while taking the medication, you need to follow a healthy diet and engage in regular exercise. Here are some tips to help you incorporate those into your life.
Follow a Healthy Diet
Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods supports the weight loss effects of semaglutide. Include a variety of vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains to complement your weight loss treatment.
Consider using a calorie tracking app to make sure you are eating enough fats, carbs, and protein. Tracking your calories will keep you accountable and show you if you are eating enough or eating too little.
A registered dietitian can help you determine what foods you should incorporate into your diet, what foods to eliminate and how many calories to eat in a day.
Engage in Regular Exercise
Physical activity is not optional, it is necessary to achieve and maintain weight loss. Incorporate a mix of strength training and cardio exercise into your routine. You may find it helpful to consult with a personal trainer who can create a personalized exercise plan for you.
If you have a hard time staying consistent or lack the motivation to exercise, a personal trainer will keep you accountable and help you stay on track. You may also find it helpful to have an “exercise buddy”, a friend or family member that will exercise with you or check in with you occasionally to make sure you are staying on track.
Stay Consistent with Medication
For semaglutide to work effectively, you must take it as prescribed. Missing doses or stopping treatment early can undermine your progress and make it more challenging to achieve your weight loss goals.
Implementing these three strategies while taking semaglutide for weight loss will ensure that you aren’t just relying on the medication; you are changing your lifestyle and forming new habits that will contribute to a healthier life.
Common Side Effects to Watch Out For
Semaglutide is generally well-tolerated, but some patients may experience side effects, particularly during the initial weeks of treatment.
Potential Side Effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
If you are a patient of Dr. Bruice and you are struggling to stay on track, are not seeing the results you hoped for, or are experiencing side effects that are affecting your daily life, reach out to our office.
Partner With Dr. Bruice on Your Weight Loss Journey
Losing weight can be challenging, but with the help of medications like semaglutide and the support of a trusted healthcare provider like Dr. Kenton Bruice, MD, you can achieve your weight loss goals.
Be patient and consistent in your efforts, and always consult with your doctor before making any changes to your treatment plan. With time and dedication, you can see real results from semaglutide and improve your overall health and wellbeing.
If you are searching for Semaglutide in Denver, or ‘semaglutide near me,’ we can help. We have two convenient locations in Denver and Aspen. For our Denver location, call (303) 957-6686. For our Aspen location, call (970) 925-6655.
We will be opening a new location in St. Louis, MO – stay tuned for more details!
FAQs About Semaglutide
Can you lose weight in the first week of semaglutide?
It’s difficult to give a specific timeframe for weight loss with semaglutide as it varies from person to person. Some may see results in the first week, while others may take longer.
What can I expect after the first semaglutide injection?
After the initial dose, you may experience mild side effects such as nausea or constipation. These should subside within a few days. You may also notice a reduction in appetite. The effects of semaglutide on weight loss typically become more pronounced after the first month of treatment.
How will I know if semaglutide is working?
Initially, you may not notice any significant changes in your weight or appetite. However, over time, most people experience a decrease in their appetite and subsequent weight loss. It’s essential to track your progress and communicate with your healthcare provider regularly.