What Is Semaglutide and How It Helps With Weight Loss
Semaglutide has become one of the most talked-about medical options for weight loss in recent years. At our clinic in Tampa, Florida — and through telehealth services across the state — we offer semaglutide as part of a medically supervised weight-management program designed for adults who are overweight or living with obesity and related health conditions.
Understanding Semaglutide
Semaglutide is a prescription medication that helps with chronic weight management in adults who meet specific clinical criteria. It is typically recommended for people with a Body Mass Index (BMI) in the overweight or obese range, especially when they also have weight-related health issues such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes.
Excess weight affects a large portion of the population and is linked to major long-term health risks like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers. Losing weight can help reduce these risks and improve overall health outcomes.
How Semaglutide Works
Semaglutide is part of a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. It works by mimicking a hormone released in the body after eating. This hormone helps regulate appetite and food intake by acting on areas of the brain involved in hunger and satiety.
By activating GLP-1 receptors, semaglutide can:
Reduce hunger and cravings
Help you feel full sooner
Support healthier eating patterns
It is given as a weekly injection and the dose is gradually increased over several weeks to help minimize potential digestive side effects during the adjustment period.
Clinical Evidence and Results
Large clinical trials have shown that semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss when used alongside a medical plan that includes diet and lifestyle support. In research studies where participants received semaglutide for more than a year, many experienced substantial reductions in body weight without needing extremely restrictive diets.
Some key outcomes from clinical research include:
Meaningful average weight loss compared to placebo
A portion of participants achieving double-digit percent weight loss
Benefits beyond weight, including improved metabolic health and appetite regulation
Who Can Benefit from Semaglutide?
Semaglutide may be appropriate for adults who:
Have a BMI in the overweight or obese range
Are dealing with weight-related health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease
Are committed to a long-term program that includes lifestyle changes and medical guidance
Because each person’s health history is different, a qualified clinician should evaluate your individual needs and determine whether semaglutide is right for you.
Combining Medication With Support
Semaglutide is most effective when paired with a comprehensive weight-management plan that includes:
Professional medical supervision
Nutritional guidance
Activity and lifestyle coaching
This approach helps maximize results and supports long-term healthy habits.
