Semaglutide injection as Ozempic

Semaglutide | 2024 Update by H.U.M. Clinic, Bangkok

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Semaglutide is a powerful GLP-1 RA medication that has transformed diabetes and weight management. Ozempic and Wegovy are available as a weekly injection. Another form, Rybelsus, is a daily oral pill. At our Diabetic Clinic, these treatments help patients effectively manage blood sugar and achieve significant weight loss.
H.U.M. Clinic, Weight Loss Clinic in Bangkok, we offer Semaglutide medication in various forms, including Ozempic injection, and Rybelsus pill. These options have proven highly effective in diabetic control and support weight reduction.
Learn more about these GLP-1 RA medication from this post article Weight Loss Injection, or check out our available Package for the Weight loss pen via the link.

Introduction to Semaglutide Medication

Semaglutide, also known by its brand names Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus, is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It is primarily prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes and aiding in weight loss. By mimicking the effects of the incretin hormone, Semaglutide helps regulate blood sugar levels, slow down gastric emptying, and suppress appetite.

What is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a synthetic version of the GLP-1 hormone, which is naturally produced in the body. It works by increasing insulin secretion in response to meals, reducing glucagon release, and slowing down the movement of food through the stomach, all of which contribute to better blood sugar control and significant weight loss.

How Does Semaglutide Work?

Semaglutide targets GLP-1 receptors found throughout the body, particularly in the pancreas and brain. By activating these receptors, it enhances insulin secretion, decreases the release of glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar levels), and helps control appetite, making it effective for both diabetes management and weight loss.

Benefits of Semaglutide in Managing Type 2 Diabetes

Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus) has demonstrated significant benefits in the management of type 2 diabetes, particularly in lowering HbA1c levels and reducing cardiovascular risks. This medication not only enhances glycemic control but also contributes to weight loss, offering a comprehensive approach to diabetes management.

Superior Glycemic Control

  • HbA1c Reduction: Semaglutide significantly lowers HbA1c levels, with many patients achieving a reduction of over 1%. This is particularly beneficial for those struggling to maintain target HbA1c with other medications.

Cardiovascular Benefits

  • Risk Reduction: Clinical trials, such as the SUSTAIN-6 trial, have shown that Semaglutide reduces the risk of major cardiovascular events, including heart attack and stroke, by approximately 26%, making it a preferred choice for patients with cardiovascular concerns.

Weight Loss Advantage

  • Weight Management: Unlike many other diabetes medications, Semaglutide promotes weight loss, with patients typically losing 5-10% of their body weight. This dual benefit enhances overall health and supports better diabetes management.
diabetic patient is preparing for non-insulin diabetic drug injection Semaglutide (Ozempic)

Wegovy® (Semaglutide)

Wegovy, a formulation of Semaglutide, is a once-weekly injection designed specifically for weight management. It is used in adults with obesity or overweight conditions and is intended to be part of a comprehensive weight loss plan, including diet and exercise.

Indications and Usage of Wegovy

  • Wegovy is indicated for chronic weight management in adults with a BMI of 30 or more, or 27 or more with at least one weight-related condition such as hypertension or type 2 diabetes. By mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, Wegovy helps reduce appetite, control cravings, and increase satiety, making it an effective tool for significant weight reduction.

Wegovy: Clinical Efficacy and Research Data

  • Clinical trials, such as the STEP 1 and STEP 3 studies, have shown that Wegovy leads to substantial weight loss. In the STEP 1 trial, participants lost an average of 15% of their body weight1, while in the STEP 3 trial, participants who combined Wegovy with intensive behavioral therapy lost around 16% of their body weight.2 These results underscore the drug’s effectiveness in achieving long-term weight loss, particularly when integrated with lifestyle modifications.

Ozempic® (Semaglutide)

Ozempic, a Semaglutide-based injection, is primarily prescribed for type 2 diabetes management. While its main focus is blood sugar control, studies have also shown its potential in supporting modest weight loss.

Ozempic for Glycemic Control

  • Ozempic is designed to help patients with type 2 diabetes manage their blood glucose levels. By mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, it enhances insulin secretion when blood sugar is high, reduces glucose production by the liver, and slows the rate at which food leaves the stomach, contributing to better overall glycemic control. SUSTAIN 1 to SUSTAIN 5 studies primarily focused on diabetic control. These trials evaluated the efficacy of semaglutide (Ozempic) in lowering HbA1c levels, a key marker for blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Ozempic: Weight Management Potential

  • Though Ozempic’s primary use is for diabetes, it also has a secondary effect on weight reduction. SUSTAIN 6 was primarily focused on cardiovascular outcomes but also observed weight management as a secondary outcome.3 However, SUSTAIN 3 and other studies within the SUSTAIN series also reported significant weight loss as a benefit of semaglutide in addition to its blood sugar control properties.

Rybelsus® (Semaglutide)

Rybelsus, an oral form of Semaglutide, is primarily prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes. As the first GLP-1 receptor agonist available in pill form, Rybelsus offers a convenient alternative to injectable options like Ozempic.

Rybelsus for Glycemic Control

  • Rybelsus is effective in lowering blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. By stimulating insulin release and reducing glucose production in the liver, Rybelsus helps maintain better glycemic control. Clinical trials, such as the PIONEER 6 study, demonstrated significant HbA1c reductions in patients taking Rybelsus compared to those on placebo, establishing it as a strong option for diabetes management.

Rybelsus: Weight Management Potential

  • Although Rybelsus is primarily focused on glycemic control, it has shown some potential in aiding weight loss. The PIONEER 4 trial highlighted modest weight reduction benefits in patients using Rybelsus when comparing to Saxenda (Liraglutide)4, though its efficacy in weight management is generally less than that of injectable alternatives like Wegovy or Ozempic. Nevertheless, Rybelsus provides a valuable option for those seeking oral medication with both glycemic and weight management benefits.
Semaglutide Subcutaneous injection

Semaglutide: Potential Side Effects

Semaglutide, like other GLP-1 receptor agonists, is generally well-tolerated but may cause side effects. Commonly reported side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and vomiting, which usually decrease over time. It’s crucial for patients to discuss potential risks with their healthcare provider.

Common Side Effects

These symptoms typically diminish as the body adjusts to the medication, but it’s essential to monitor and manage them, particularly when beginning treatment.
  • Gastrointestinal Discomfort:
    • Nausea is the most frequently reported side effect.
    • Vomiting and diarrhea are also common, especially when starting treatment.
    • Symptoms usually subside as the body adjusts to the medication.
  • Mild to Moderate Effects:
    • Constipation and indigestion may occur.
    • Decreased appetite is often experienced, contributing to weight loss.
    • Side effects are generally manageable with proper dietary adjustments and hydration.

Serious Considerations

Patients with a history of these conditions should exercise caution and discuss their medical history with their healthcare provider. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments are recommended to ensure the medication’s safety and efficacy.
  • Allergic Reactions:
    • Serious allergic reactions are uncommon but possible.
    • Signs include swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing, which require urgent care.
  • Thyroid Tumors:
    • Although rare, there is a potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma.
    • Patients with a family history of thyroid cancer should exercise caution.
  • Pancreatitis Risk:
    • There have been reports of acute pancreatitis in patients using Semaglutide.
    • Symptoms include severe abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, requiring immediate medical attention.
Why choose us H.U.M. Clinic Bangkok

Get Semaglutide in Bangkok at H.U.M. Clinic

At H.U.M. Clinic in Bangkok, we offer access to Thai FDA-approved Semaglutide medications, including Ozempic and Rybelsus, for both diabetes management and weight loss. Our clinic provides personalized treatment plans to ensure each patient receives the best care tailored to their specific needs.

Key advantage of Getting Semaglutide with us

  • Expert Consultations: Access to experienced healthcare professionals for guidance.
  • Personalized Care: Tailored treatment plans to meet your specific health needs.
  • Ongoing Support: Continuous monitoring and follow-up to ensure optimal results.
  • FDA-Approved Medications: We provide access to legally approved Semaglutide options, including Ozempic and Rybelsus.
  • Temperature control: We store the unopened Ozempic (Semaglutide) in the 2-8 degree Celsius refrigerator to ensure the quality.
FAQ and more questions

FAQ About Semaglutide

Is Wegovy (Semaglutide) available in Thailand as of 2024?

No, as of 2024, Wegovy (Semaglutide) is not yet available in Thailand. It is expected to launch in 2025. However, Injectable Semaglutide (Ozempic) and Oral Semaglutide (Rybelsus) are available in Thailand, including at H.U.M. Clinic in Bangkok.

Can Semaglutide be used for weight loss if I don’t have diabetes?

Yes, Semaglutide has been approved under the brand name Wegovy specifically for weight management in individuals without diabetes who have obesity or are overweight with at least one weight-related condition.

ow long does it take to see results with Semaglutide?

Many patients start to notice weight loss or improved blood sugar control within a few weeks of starting Semaglutide, with significant results often seen after several months of consistent use together with exercise and diet control.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Semaglutide?

If you miss a dose of Semaglutide, take it as soon as possible unless it’s close to your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Consult with the your medical providers if you are unsure.

Reference

  1. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity <https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183> ↩︎
  2. Effect of Subcutaneous Semaglutide vs Placebo as an Adjunct to Intensive Behavioral Therapy on Body Weight in Adults With Overweight or Obesity The STEP 3 Randomized Clinical Trial <https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2777025> ↩︎
  3. Semaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes <https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1607141> ↩︎
  4. Efficacy of Oral Semaglutide: Overview of the PIONEER Clinical Trial Program and Implications for Managed Care <https://www.ajmc.com/view/efficacy-of-oral-semaglutide-the-pioneer-clinical-trial-program-and-implications-for-managed-care> ↩︎

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