Semaglutide (Ozempic) for Weight Loss: The Facts and Alternatives

Semaglutide made headlines recently following the publication of results from a large global study into its effectiveness in aiding people with weight loss. It is not yet licensed for use in weight loss here in the UK, but with the possibility of that on the horizon, we’ve pulled together answers to the common questions about Semaglutide, the facts and figures and some alternatives.

Semaglutide and Ozemipic – What’s the Difference?

You might have seen new articles talking about both Ozempic and semaglutide. Semaglutide is the name of the drug, while Ozemipic is the brand name. But ultimately, we’re tlaking about the same thing here.

Does Semaglutide work for weight loss?

Yes. It certainly seems that way. In a large global study published in February 2021 gave some incredibly positive results. In short:

• 75% of participants given semaglutide (as opposed to the placebo) lost more than 10% of their bodyweight over the course of the 15 month trial
• For 35%, the loss was more than 20% of their body weight in that timeframe

Participants were given an injection of semaglutide once a week during the trial.

This is really significant, particularly given the scale of the trial, and makes a clear case for the effectiveness of this drug in terms of helping obese people to lose weight.

How does semaglutide work?

Semaglutide works by reducing appetitite.

Essentially, it’s a synthetic form of a hormone called Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1). GLP-1 plays a key role in the body, contributing to letting us know when we are full.

Is Semaglutide/Ozempic licensed for use in weight loss in the UK?

No. It’s not presently licensed (as of March 2021) for use in weight loss treatment. However, evidence has been submitted to drugs regulators so we may see this available as a prescription treatment in years to come.

Are there any side effects to semaglutide?

Semaglutide has fewer side effects than many other weight loss medicines on the market. However, like all medicines, it does some with a risk of side effects. These include nausea, vomiting and constipation.

What are the alternatives to Ozempic/Semaglutide?

There are other weight loss medications already licensed for use in the UK. We’ve previously written about Saxenda. And medicals like Orlistat and many others do exist too. However, there are alternatives to medicines with side effects altogether.

Some other things to consider if you are struggling with weight loss could include the following.

Chromium (found in Amlow supplements)

Buy Our Amlow Supplements

Chromium is a natural supplement, which we include in our Amlow formula. It’s aims to work in a similar way to Semaglutide insofar as it’s all about helping people to feel more satisfied after a meal.

Our Amlow supplements contain Chromium, Amla (a fruit which helps to reduce glucose levels) and Pterostilbene (an Indian Kino tree extract which helps the body maintain healthy levels of cholesterol). The ingredients in Amlow supplements are also 100% natural and have been clinically proven to be safe.

CBT and Other Talking Therapies

We speak to many people who believe their weight problems are associated with bad habits and behaviours that they struggle to change. Many also look to excessive and comfort eating in times of stress and difficulty. In some cases, there could be a benefit to speaking to a prfessional behavioural therapist and trying to change mindset and habits.

Sleep

Plenty of good quality sleep is important to maintaining energy levels, which in turn make us more likely to move around more. That, of course, can be directly related to our bodyweight. So trying to give yourself plenty of quality sleep is important and can impact on weight.

Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamin D deficiency is 35% more common in those who are obese than in those of a healthy weight. And being deficient in vitamin D can lead to increased levels of fatigue and is linked in some cases to increased depression and stress. All of those can contribute to weight gain.

So ensuring you are not deificient in key minerals and vitamins is a good step on the road to better health.

Talk to your GP

If you’re becoming concerned about your weight, a good place to start is a chat with your GP, who will be able to take you through all of the help and support available for you on your journey to a healthy weight.

Good luck!