What Is The Average Weight Loss On Semaglutide? 6 Key Factors

If you are struggling with weight loss, you are not alone. According to the National Center For Health Statistics, a staggering 56% of women and 41% of men attempt to shed extra pounds throughout the year!

Attempts to Lose Weight Among Adults in the United States

However, as you might have discovered already, losing weight is not always that simple. 

Factors such as hormonal imbalances, medical conditions, genetics, slow metabolism, stress, and inadequate sleep can all add to the challenge – making it even more frustrating than it already is!

This is where semaglutide can make a difference. By mimicking a hormone that regulates appetite and blood sugar, it can reduce your hunger and help you control your cravings – effectively addressing some of the factors that typically make weight loss difficult.

So, you might be wondering – all of this sounds great, but how much can I expect to lose on semaglutide, and how fast can I see the results? In this article, we will deep dive into everything you need to know about the average weight loss on semaglutide.

Let’s take a look:

What Is Semaglutide, And How Does It Work?

Semaglutide is an FDA-approved medication used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, as well as for weight loss and long-term weight management. 

It belongs to the class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists), which are used to manage blood sugar levels in patients. GLP-1 agonists are most typically administered as injectable medications.

In order to get a more clear expectation on the average weight loss on semaglutide, it’s also important to understand how this medication works. 

As we mentioned earlier, semaglutide mimics the action of a hormone that regulates blood sugar and appetite – GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). When injected, it activates GLP-1 receptors in the body, particularly in the brain and digestive system.

As a result:

• You can feel reduced feelings of hunger, since semaglutide acts on areas of the brain that control hunger, such as the hypothalamus;
• You end up reducing your overall intake thanks to delayed movement of food from the stomach to the small intense, leading to prolonged sense of fullness.
• Your insulin sensitivity improves. Semaglutide reduces the release of glucose from the liver, which keeps your blood sugar levels in check, and prevents spikes.
• Your body starts using your energy more efficiently, thanks to the fact that semaglutide targets visceral fat and promotes its breakdown.

Image source: nature.com 

What Is The Average Weight Loss on Semaglutide?

Now that you know how semaglutide works, it’s time to answer the question that you came for – what is the average weight loss on semaglutide? 

According to the European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO), the largest and longest clinical trial involving 17,000 adults revealed that semaglutide leads to an average weight loss of 10% of a patient’s body weight and a reduction of 7 cm from their waistline over the course of 4 years.

However…you guessed it – giving you exact numbers on the average weight loss on semaglutide is not that simple, either. 

For example, clinical trials with participants using semaglutide 2.4 mg have noticed an even more substantial loss when combining the medication with lifestyle changes, which is up to 15%+ of their body weight.

What Factors Impact The Average Weight Loss on Semaglutide?

While the average weight loss on semaglutide can serve you as a great reference on what you can expect when taking this medication, it’s important to keep in mind that there are multiple factors impacting your final weight loss result.

Let’s take a look at some of them:

Factor #1: Type 2 Diabetes

Underlying medical conditions play a big role when it comes to the average weight loss on semaglutide. 

If you are suffering from type 2 diabetes, you can typically expect a more modest weight loss, usually 5-7% of your body weight over 6 to 12 months. 

That’s because the main goal of the medication is to control your blood sugar, which may reduce its appetite-suppressing effects compared to higher doses used for weight loss. Nonetheless, you can still expect a considerable weight loss on semaglutide.

Image source: epicresearch.org 

Factor #2: Dosage & Consistency

Another factor impacting the average weight loss on semaglutide is the dosage and duration of your treatment. That’s because higher doses of semaglutide are specifically designed to maximize appetite suppression as opposed to managing diabetes.

In addition, the duration of the treatment also matters – if you are using semaglutide consistently, you will notice that your weight loss will increase over time, especially after 6 to 12 months of regular use. 

FancyMeds. Average weight loss on semaglutide

At FancyMeds, we know that improving your health and reaping the long-term benefits of weight loss are your priority – that’s why we designed tiered treatment plans that adapt to your needs, and will maximize your weight loss. 

Factor #3: Lifestyle Factors

When discussing the average weight loss on semaglutide, we can’t forget to mention that lifestyle factors also play an important role in your long-term results. 

Are you combining the medication with a calorie-restricted diet? Are you consuming whole foods that are rich in nutrients and high in protein? Are you making sure to incorporate regular exercise into your daily routine?

While semaglutide can do wonders for your waist, it doesn’t mean that you should continue eating junk or leading a sedentary lifestyle. A calorie-restricted diet will enhance the effectiveness of semaglutide, while a nutrient-rich diet will keep you energized and healthy.

Here are some of the best foods that you can eat in order to support your weight loss journey on semaglutide:

• High-protein foods – Lean chicken, turkey, beef, seafood and eggs;
• Fiber-rich foods – Including vegetables, fruits, legumes, and wholegrains;
• Healthy fats – Avocados, nuts, seeds, olive oil and fatty fish are a great choice;
• Low-glycemic carbohydrates – Such as sweet potatoes, quinoa, and more;

And of course, don’t forget to drink plenty of water! Staying hydrated is absolutely essential – we recommend 8 to 12 cups to combat the potential side effects of semaglutide. 

Factor #4: Genetic Predisposition

Did you know that genetic predisposition may also influence the average weight loss on semaglutide? Certain genes – such as variations in the FTO gene – can impact how your body processes food, stores fat, and burns calories. 

In addition, genes can affect:

• How our brain responds to hunger and satiety signals
• How our body stores and distributes fat
• Whether we crave certain high-calorie foods more than others
• Whether we have better or worse responses to dietary changes and exercise
• How many calories we burn at rest (resting metabolic rate)

Despite the possible genetic predisposition, semaglutide is still quite effective across diverse populations, which is great news if you are looking forward to starting your weight loss journey.

If you are facing a genetic challenge, don’t worry – this is where compounded semaglutide can help. By creating small, customized batches in an FDA-monitored, state-licensed pharmacy, we can help you achieve optimal results and reach your dream weight.

Factor #5: Concurrent Medications

Another factor that plays a role when it comes to the average weight loss on semaglutide is whether you are taking any concurrent medications alongside the above-mentioned one.

For example, medications such as steroids, some antidepressants (like paroxetine or amitriptyline), beta-blockers, as well as second-generation antipsychotics are associated with weight gain due to increased appetite and altered metabolism, which may counteract the benefits of semaglutide.

In addition, some drugs can interact with semaglutide, which may reduce its efficacy. This includes medication that slows gastric emptying, blood thinners, and other glucose-lowering drugs like insulin or sulfonylureas.

Factor #6: Your Individual Biology

And last but not least, we can’t talk about the average weight loss on semaglutide without mentioning your biology as an individual. 

One key factor is your starting weight and body composition – if you have a higher body mass index (BMI), you will likely experience greater absolute weight loss compared to someone with a lower BMI.

On another hand, if you have a slower metabolic rate, this could make your progress slower compared with someone with a higher metabolic rate. 

In addition, conditions like hypothyroidism or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also influence the effectiveness of semaglutide.

How Can I Maximize My Weight Loss on Semaglutide?

As we mentioned earlier, you can expect a great average weight loss on semaglutide just by taking the medication alone, but this doesn’t mean that you can’t maximize your results by making lifestyle changes and improving your habits.

To maximize your weight loss on this medication, make sure to:

• Make your diet a priority, limiting processed food, practicing portion control, and focusing on high-protein and fiber-rich foods;
• Commit to regular exercise, especially activities that support your cardiovascular system, such as walking, jogging, cycling or swimming. Aim for at least 150 minutes per week to burn calories and improve your health. 
• Include strength training to your exercise routine at least 2-3 times a week. This will help you build muscle mass and increase your metabolic rate.
• Stay hydrated – we won’t get tired of repeating this! Getting your hydration up, especially if you have a high activity level, is essential to increase the average weight loss on semaglutide. It will also help you manage potential side effects.
• Manage stress effectively. Having high levels of stress often leads to emotional eating or disrupted sleep, both of which may put obstacles on your weight loss journey.
• Ensure quality sleep, at least 7-9 hours per night. If you are not getting quality sleep, this may increase your hunger hormones and cravings, which will make it harder for you to stick to healthy habits.
• Follow your treatment plan and adhere to your dosage. With FancyMeds, you will typically start on Tier 1, and then upgrade your plan every 3 months in order to enjoy a smooth and successful journey.

Losing Weight Loss on Semaglutide With FancyMeds

If you are looking for a convenient and personalized approach to weight loss, FancyMeds offers tailored solutions with compounded semaglutide using the same active ingredients as Ozempic® and Wegovy®, as well as compounded tirzepatide using the same active ingredients as Mounjaro® and Zepbound®.

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FAQ

How much weight can I expect to lose on semaglutide?

On semaglutide, weight loss varies based on factors like dosage, duration, and lifestyle changes. Clinical trials show that individuals using Semaglutide (2.4 mg) for weight management lose an average of 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks, with some achieving up to 20%. 

For those on lower doses like Ozempic (1 mg) for diabetes, weight loss averages 5-7%. Results improve with a calorie-restricted diet and exercise.

How long does it take to start losing weight with semaglutide?

Most people start noticing weight loss within the first 4-6 weeks of taking semaglutide, although results vary based on factors like dosage and adherence to lifestyle changes. 

Initially, the medication helps reduce appetite and calorie intake, leading to gradual weight reduction. Significant progress is often seen by 3 months, with steady weight loss continuing as treatment and healthy habits are maintained.

What is the average weight loss after 3 months on semaglutide?

After 3 months on semaglutide, the average weight loss is typically around 5-7% of body weight, depending on the dosage and adherence to lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. 

This early phase of treatment focuses on dose titration and building consistency with the medication. Individuals who combine semaglutide with a calorie-restricted diet and regular physical activity may achieve even greater results during this period. 

What is the average weight loss after 1 year on semaglutide?

After 1 year on semaglutide, individuals typically lose an average of 12-15% of their body weight, with some achieving up to 20% or more, especially on the higher 2.4 mg dose used for weight management. 

Results depend on adherence to lifestyle changes, including a calorie-restricted diet and regular exercise. For those using lower doses for diabetes, weight loss averages around 5-7%.

Does semaglutide cause muscle loss along with fat loss?

Semaglutide primarily targets fat loss, but like any weight-loss method, some muscle loss can occur, especially if adequate protein intake and strength training are not maintained. 

Studies show that the majority of weight loss is fat mass, but preserving muscle requires a nutrient-rich, high-protein diet and regular resistance exercises. Combining semaglutide with these practices helps minimize muscle loss.