Semaglutide For Weight Loss: Doses, Types & Where To Buy

Semaglutide has gained attention as a promising option for weight management. As more individuals explore its potential benefits, it is important to understand the different formulations available and how to use them effectively under the guidance of a healthcare provider. 

This article takes a look at the top semaglutide options for losing weight, examining their various forms and doses. We compare well-known choices like Wegovy® and detail where to purchase semaglutide. 

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Key Takeaways

• Semaglutide, initially developed for type 2 diabetes treatment, has shown significant potential for weight loss. Clinical trials have demonstrated that participants lost an average of 15% of their body weight ^[1].

• Semaglutide works by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which helps manage blood glucose levels and can reduce appetite. Clinical studies have shown that when used in conjunction with diet and exercise, semaglutide can aid in weight management for certain individuals. Individual results may vary, and all treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider.

• Semaglutide not only supports weight loss but also improves overall metabolic health, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and enhancing glycemic control ^[1].

• A recent study found that semaglutide reduced the risk of stroke and heart attack by 20% in people with obesity and a history of cardiovascular disease ^[1].

• The FDA has approved semaglutide for weight loss under the brand name Wegovy^®, with a typical dose of 2.4 milligrams administered weekly as subcutaneous self-injections ^[1].

• Semaglutide is recommended for individuals with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or greater or those with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or higher and at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol ^[1].

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What Is Semaglutide? 

Semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic® and Wegovy®) has transformed weight loss treatments [3]. This drug was first developed to treat type 2 diabetes, but it now belongs to a group of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists [4].

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This drug works by copying GLP-1, a hormone our bodies make that's key to controlling insulin release, how we process sugar, and our appetite [3]. By turning on GLP-1 receptors, semaglutide has a big impact on how our body manages weight [3].

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Semaglutide may assist in weight management by influencing appetite regulation, helping some individuals feel fuller, and reducing overall calorie intake. It is important to use this medication as part of a comprehensive weight management plan that includes a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

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Semaglutide does more than just curb hunger. It also affects the brain's pleasure centers, which make food enjoyable [3]. By working on these brain circuits, semaglutide helps reduce the appeal of high-calorie tempting foods, making it simpler for people to follow their diet plans [3].

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If you're starting semaglutide, understanding the proper dosing and usage guidelines is essential to ensure optimal effectiveness and safety. In some cases, healthcare providers may consider compounded semaglutide for patients with specific needs.

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Compounded medications should only be used under the close supervision of a healthcare provider. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the compounded version is safe, effective, and sourced from a reputable source like Eden. The safety and efficacy of compounded medications may differ from FDA-approved formulations. Patients should discuss the risks and benefits with their healthcare provider.

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Are There Different Types of Semaglutide For Weight Loss?

Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist, has gained traction as an effective tool to manage weight and treat diabetes. Different types of semaglutide exist, each with its own features and uses.

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Wegovy®

Wegovy® stands out as the sole semaglutide drug with FDA approval to help people lose weight [7]. Doctors prescribe it to adults who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more or those with a BMI of at least 27 who struggle with weight-related health issues [7]. 

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Clinical studies have shown that adults using Wegovy® (semaglutide) in conjunction with lifestyle changes experienced significant weight loss over a period of several months. Individual results can vary, and it is important to follow the treatment plan prescribed by a healthcare provider. Weight loss outcomes depend on various factors, including adherence to diet and exercise recommendations.

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Ozempic®

Ozempic®, an injectable semaglutide, has FDA approval to treat type 2 diabetes [7]. Though not sanctioned for weight loss, doctors do prescribe it off-label for this purpose [7]. Ozempic® has an influence on blood sugar levels, appetite, and digestion speed [7]. Patients give themselves a shot once a week under a doctor's supervision [7]. Research shows that long-term Ozempic® use can help people lose up to 15% of their total body weight [7]. 

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Rybelsus®

Rybelsus® comes as an oral tablet containing semaglutide. The FDA has given it the green light to treat type 2 diabetes [7]. People often use it off-label to lose weight just like Ozempic® [7]. You take Rybelsus® once a day, and it's available in three strengths: 3 mg 7 mg, and 14 mg [7]. It works much like Ozempic® does. It lowers blood sugar levels, curbs hunger, and boosts insulin production [7].  

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SubMagna™

Semaglutide SubMagna™ is an oral sublingual suspension form of semaglutide. This sublingual administration involves placing the medication under the tongue. It is absorbed directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. Compared to injectable administration, this method can lead to a faster onset of action and a reduced risk of gastrointestinal side effects.

While these medications all contain semaglutide, they have different FDA approvals and uses [9]. Still, because they work in similar ways, they all can have an impact on weight [7].

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Wegovy® vs Semaglutide For Weight Loss

People often talk about Wegovy® and semaglutide when discussing weight loss, but it's important to know how they relate and differ. Semaglutide is the main ingredient in both Wegovy® and Ozempic®, two branded drugs that Novo Nordisk manufactures [10]. Although these medications contain the same drug, they have different FDA approvals and dosing schedules.

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Wegovy® has FDA approval to manage weight long-term in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or more. It's also approved for adults with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or higher who have at least one weight-related health issue like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol [10]. The FDA has given the green light for Wegov's® use in some children and teens 12 and older who struggle with obesity [11]. 

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Ozempic®, which also contains semaglutide, is FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes [12]. Still, doctors might prescribe it off-label to help with weight loss [12]. Both drugs act as GLP-1 receptor agonists, helping to control blood sugar, make the body feel full longer, and slow down digestion [10]. This process impacts weight loss by curbing appetite and cutting calorie intake.

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When it comes to dosing, Wegovy® begins at 0.25 mg once a week for four weeks, then increases to a maintenance dose of 2.4 mg [10]. Ozempic® has a typical maintenance dose of 1 mg (with a maximum of 2 mg) [12]. This difference in dosing might explain why Wegovy® could result in more weight loss compared to Ozempic®. 

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When it comes to how well they work, a look at studies showed that people who used 2.4 mg of semaglutide (the usual Wegovy® maintenance amount) lost more weight than those who used 1 mg (the usual Ozempic® maintenance amount) [12]. To be clear, patients who took the highest dose of Wegovy® dropped about 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks [13].

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Both medicines require a weekly shot that patients can give themselves at home [11]. People inject Wegovy® with a tool that looks like an EpiPen, while they use a device similar to insulin injectors for Ozempic® [10]. 

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Wegovy® and Ozempic® both contain semaglutide, but doctors approve Wegovy® for helping people lose weight. They prescribe it in higher amounts, which might lead to more weight loss. It's best to talk to your doctor about which one is right for you based on what you need for your health and what you want to achieve.  

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Where Can I Get Semaglutide From?

To get semaglutide for weight loss, you need to focus on safety and legitimacy. More people want weight loss drugs like Wegovy®. This has led many online companies to offer telehealth prescriptions for cheaper compounded versions of these medicines [14]. 

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Compounding pharmacies have a crucial impact on customizing drugs for patients whose needs aren't met by existing approved medications [14]. Keep in mind that compounded drugs are not generics and don't go through the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) approval process [14]. Boards of pharmacy at the state level are the main regulators of these drugs [14].

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Compounded semaglutide can be used when tailored dosing or specific formulations are needed that aren’t available in standard prescriptions, offering more flexibility for individual patient needs. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the compounded version is safe, effective, and sourced from a reputable source like Eden.

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You need a medical consultation and prescription from a doctor to get compounded semaglutide for both the injectable form and oral forms. A doctor will decide if semaglutide is right for you and which type: either the injectable form of semaglutide (Wegovy^®, Ozempic^®) or one of the oral forms of semaglutide (Rybelsus^®, SubMagna™).

Patients say they like Eden's weight loss programs and how they treat customers [15]. One customer shared that they dropped 45 pounds and felt happy with what they achieved [15]. Semaglutide tackles many parts of metabolism and hunger control, offering a full approach to managing weight and boosting metabolic health, leaving patients satisfied with the results of using semaglutide. Sticking to semaglutide safety guidelines will help you cut down on possible side effects and get the best results as you work to manage your weight.

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People often question how long you stay on semaglutide for weight loss, and there isn’t one single answer, as treatment is so individualized. The duration can vary depending on individual goals and medical advice. It's important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate length of treatment with semaglutide for optimal weight loss results. Several semaglutide success stories show how this drug can help people shed a significant amount of weight and boost their overall health.

Semaglutide comes in pill form, as a sublingual suspension, and as an injection. As with any other weight loss medication, there are pros and cons of semaglutide for weight loss, and there are several factors to consider when deciding between semaglutide tablets vs injections vs oral suspensions.

Getting online semaglutide from reputable sources like Eden is made simple because you can get online medical consultations with healthcare providers through telehealth services.

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Semaglutide For Weight Loss: Conclusion

Semaglutide offers a potential option for individuals struggling with weight management, particularly when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes dietary and lifestyle modifications. As with any medication, it is important to use semaglutide under the guidance of a healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective results. 

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Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. The use of semaglutide should be personalized to each individual's health needs and goals.

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Just like any other medical treatment, you need to be careful when using semaglutide and follow a doctor's advice. To make the most of this medicine, it's key to stay in touch with your healthcare team, take the right amount as prescribed, and keep up a good diet and exercise plan. While semaglutide looks promising, remember it's one piece of the puzzle to reach and maintain a healthy weight.

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References

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1. UCLA Health. Semaglutide, also known as Ozempic, for weight loss - what you need to know. uclahealth.org. Published January 12, 2023. Accessed August 17, 2024. https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/semaglutide-weight-loss-what-you-need-know

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2. Ryan DH, Lingvay I, Deanfield J, et al. Long-term weight loss effects of semaglutide in obesity without diabetes in the SELECT trial. Nature Medicine. Published online May 13, 2024:1-9. doi:https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-024-02996-7

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3. Prime Health MD. How Semaglutide Works: Understanding its Mechanisms | PrimeHealth MD. PrimeHealthMD. Published August 24, 2023. Accessed August 17, 2024. https://www.primehealthmd.com/blog/how-semaglutide-works.html

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4. Kommu S, Whitfield P. Semaglutide. PubMed. Published February 11, 2024. Accessed August 17, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK603723/

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5. Mahapatra MK, Karuppasamy M, Sahoo BM. Semaglutide, a glucagon like peptide-1 receptor agonist with cardiovascular benefits for management of type 2 diabetes. Reviews in Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders. 2022;23(3). doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s11154-021-09699-1

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6. Cleveland Clinic. Semaglutide Injection (Weight Management). Cleveland Clinic. Published 2024. Accessed August 17, 2024. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/23611-semaglutide-injection-weight-management

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7. Schulkind, MD L. Rybelsus vs Ozempic vs Wegovy: Which Is Best for Weight Loss? Health First Medical Weight Loss. Published November 15, 2023. Accessed August 17, 2024. https://healthfirstweightcontrol.com/rybelsus-ozempic-wegovy/

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8. U.S. Food and Drug Association. Medications Containing Semaglutide Marketed for Type 2 Diabetes or Weight Loss. FDA. Published online May 31, 2023. Accessed August 17, 2024. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/medications-containing-semaglutide-marketed-type-2-diabetes-or-weight-loss

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9. US FDA. The Difference Between Ozempic, Wegovy & Rybelsus | HealthFocus SA | University Health. University Health System. Published 2024. Accessed August 17, 2024. https://www.universityhealth.com/blog/weight-loss-medication

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10. Hensley L. Ozempic vs. Wegovy vs. Mounjaro: What’s the Difference? Verywell Health. Published March 21, 2023. Accessed August 17, 2024. https://www.verywellhealth.com/ozempic-vs-wegovy-vs-mounjaro-7368829

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11. Kerwin McCrimmon K. Wegovy vs. Ozempic: The truth about new “weight-loss” drugs. UCHealth Today. Published April 5, 2023. Accessed August 17, 2024. https://www.uchealth.org/today/wegovy-vs-ozempic-the-truth-about-new-weight-loss-drugs/

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12. Marshall H. Ozempic vs. Wegovy: What’s the Difference? Medical News Today. Published September 26, 2023. Accessed August 17, 2024. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-ozempic-vs-wegovy

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13. Lovelace Jr B. Zepbound outperforms Ozempic and Wegovy in head-to-head weight loss study. NBC News. Published July 8, 2024. Accessed August 17, 2024. https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/zepbound-outperforms-ozempic-wegovy-head-head-weight-loss-study-rcna160630

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14. Lupkin S. Thinking of buying Wegovy online. Here’s what to know about compounding pharmacies. NPR. Published June 7, 2024. Accessed August 17, 2024. https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2024/06/07/g-s1-3331/wegovy-online-compound-semaglutide-compounding-pharmacies

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15. Eden. Reviews | Authentic reviews from Eden members. tryeden.com. Published 2021. Accessed August 17, 2024. https://www.tryeden.com/reviews?srsltid=AfmBOoqhw93sdnEwZSvhf5CviZfQngqGY5taBrex0y8knoDwgP1fZFDm

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16. Trust Pilot. Eden is rated “Excellent” with 4.3 / 5 on Trustpilot. Trustpilot. Published August 15, 2024. Accessed August 17, 2024. https://www.trustpilot.com/review/tryeden.com

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‌Disclaimer: The FDA does not approve compounded medications for safety, quality, or manufacturing. Prescriptions and a medical evaluation are required for certain products. The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not be relied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blog is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns, including side effects. Use of this blog's information is at your own risk. The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided in this blog.

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