Losing Weight on Semaglutide: How Long Does it Take?

Discover how to lose weight effectively with semaglutide, a potent injectable. Learn about the expected timeline and how to get the best results with this medication from this article.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ruth Cohen,
Medical Director, Layla
Reviewed by
Dr. Ruth Cohen
Medical Director, Layla
Last Updated
July 17, 2024
8 clinical references

How fast does semaglutide work for weight loss? This is a common question among individuals using this drug. Semaglutide is an anti-diabetic drug that has gained popularity in weight management. The rate of weight loss varies among individuals; however, weight loss may become noticeable at around four weeks of using semaglutide.

In this article, we will look at the expected timeline for weight loss with semaglutide, factors that influence its efficacy, and tips to enhance its effectiveness.

Key Takeaways

  • Semaglutide is effective for weight loss and has significant long-term benefits.
  • Compliance with semaglutide, regular exercise, and a healthy diet maximize your weight loss results.
  • Individual factors like dosage and duration of treatment can affect how fast you lose weight with semaglutide.

What is the Expected Timeline for Weight Loss?

Initial Weeks

The initial weeks are for your body to adapt to starting doses of semaglutide, and you may experience little to no weight loss. However, you might notice that your appetite is reduced, and you feel fuller than usual.

First Month

Your first month on semaglutide will be at a dose of 0.25 mg weekly. You can expect to lose up to 2% of your body weight during this period.

Three to Six months

You should be taking 1.0 to 2.4 mg of semaglutide weekly for three to six months. Research has shown that this can reduce your body weight by 6% to 12%.

Long-Term Weight Management

Beyond six months, you can expect to lose around 15% of your starting body weight. Combined with healthy habits like regular exercise, continued use of semaglutide has huge benefits in long-term weight loss management. Some studies show that the participants on semaglutide for two years had an average of 15% reduction in body weight.

What is Compounded Semaglutide and How Does it Work?

In the pharmaceutical industry, compounding refers to altering or mixing drugs to better suit an individual's needs. For instance, a drug in pill form can be compounded into a liquid for an elderly person who cannot swallow pills. Drug compounding is also helpful in cases of medication shortage. This is the case with Wegovy and Ozempic, which are FDA-approved semaglutide brands. Compounded semaglutide contains the active ingredient and is readily available for weight loss despite shortages of its branded forms.

Semaglutide is a Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1) agonist. This drug mimics Glucagon-like peptide-1, a naturally occurring hormone in your body that increases insulin release, regulates appetite, and controls blood sugar levels.

Many studies have shown that semaglutide has high efficacy in weight management. Note that these studies used branded versions of semaglutide and not compounded forms, but you can expect similar results with our products.

Who is Eligible to Use Semaglutide for Weight Loss?

Adults and adolescents over 12 years old can get semaglutide for weight loss. Here are the general criteria for semaglutide use:

  • Adults with BMI ≥30 kg/m² (obesity).
  • Adults with BMI ≥27 kg/m² with at least one weight-related comorbidity
  • Adolescents aged 12 years and above with BMI ≥ the 95th percentile for age and sex

Your healthcare provider will assess you and determine if semaglutide is safe and suitable for your weight loss treatment.

Factors Influencing Weight Loss with Semaglutide

Dosage and Administration

Studies have shown that higher doses of semaglutide are associated with better weight loss results. Generally, the starting dose of semaglutide is 0.25 mg once weekly with gradual increments monthly. Your healthcare provider will determine the right amount of semaglutide for you. It is also important that you adhere to your dosage plan and ensure that you use the injection correctly.

Individual Variability

Weight loss results vary from person to person due to factors such as age, genetics, and underlying health conditions. Moreover, everyone's body responds to drugs differently.

Lifestyle and Dietary Habits

Adopting regular exercise and eating healthy can facilitate weight loss on semaglutide. Good dietary habits and staying hydrated can go a long way on your weight loss journey.

Duration of Treatment

Following the weight loss timeline with semaglutide, it is evident that you lose more weight the longer you use semaglutide. For instance, studies show you can lose about 2% of your body weight after four weeks of semaglutide treatment vs. 15% after 68 weeks.

Effective Ways for Enhancing Weight Loss with Semaglutide

Balanced Diet

The fact that semaglutide reduces appetite does not mean you shouldn't eat a balanced diet. Eating a balanced diet can enhance your weight loss while on semaglutide. Most clinical trials combine eating healthy with semaglutide to achieve the best outcomes. Focus more on unprocessed foods, lean protein, fruits, and vegetables. Do your best to stay away from fatty food and a high-calorie diet while using semaglutide.

Regular Physical Activity

To achieve the best weight loss results, individuals on semaglutide should engage in a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly. Simple activities like walking or using the stairs can also facilitate weight loss with semaglutide.

Staying Consistent with Medications

Complying with your semaglutide dosage plan determines how much weight you lose from semaglutide. Missing doses regularly can be counterproductive on your weight loss journey. Be consistent with the treatment plan offered by your healthcare provider for the best results.

Monitoring and Adjusting Yourself

Keep records of changes in your weight. If you have any concerns, discuss them with your healthcare provider for possible dosage adjustments. Additionally, make lifestyle adjustments, like staying away from processed carbohydrates, to enhance your weight loss.

Potential Side Effects With Semaglutide

As with most medications, you may experience some side effects while using semaglutide. However, most side effects are only temporary and should resolve as your body adjusts to the drug.

Common Side Effects

Common side effects of semaglutide include:

  • Vomiting 
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea 
  • Constipation
  • Stomach pain
  • Fatigue
  • Bloating
  • Dizziness 
  • Heartburn

Rare Side Effects

Some rare side effects of semaglutide include:

  • Difficulty breathing 
  • Swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Visual changes
  • Vivid dreams
  • Palpitations
  • Pancreatitis
  • Gallbladder issues

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Conclusion

In conclusion, semaglutide is not a quick-fix method for weight loss. Patience is key as the changes may take some time to reflect. 

On average, most people on semaglutide start noticing some weight loss after four weeks, with a long-term reduction in weight of up to 15%.

 If you are thinking about using semaglutide, discuss with your healthcare provider about incorporating it into your treatment plan. Do not be disappointed if you do not see results immediately. 

With consistency and healthy lifestyle habits, you can reach your weight loss goals while using semaglutide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much weight can you lose in a month on semaglutide?

Research has shown that you can lose up to 2% of your body weight in one month. This value varies from person to person, and you may lose more or less.

How to speed up weight loss on semaglutide?

To facilitate weight loss with semaglutide, eat a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, comply with your treatment plan, and monitor your progress regularly.

How quickly does semaglutide work?

Some individuals begin to notice a reduction in appetite and a sensation of fullness in the first week of semaglutide. However, semaglutide's weight loss benefits may become noticeable after four weeks of use. Significant weight loss often begins after using semaglutide for three months.

Why am I not losing weight on semaglutide?

Several reasons might be at play. You may not lose weight on semaglutide because of factors like diet, physical activity, or underlying medical conditions. If you recently started semaglutide, then be patient. However, if you have been on semaglutide for long without significant results, you can contact your healthcare provider. 

Does weight loss increase with higher doses of semaglutide?

Yes, weight loss increases with higher doses of semaglutide. Clinical trials have shown that the maximum dose of semaglutide, 2.4 mg, has the highest weight loss results.

Sources

  1. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-drug-treatment-chronic-weight-management-first-2014
  2. https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9556320/
  4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551568/
  5. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults
  6. https://www.drugs.com/sfx/tirzepatide-side-effects.html

Disclaimer

Off-Label Use: When discussing off-label uses, such as using Ozempic for weight loss, make it clear that this is not FDA-approved for that purpose. For example, you can add a disclaimer like: “While Ozempic is primarily approved for treating Type 2 diabetes, some healthcare providers may prescribe it off-label for weight loss. However, this use is not FDA-approved.”

Medical Advice Disclaimer: Clearly state that the article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Encourage readers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new medication.

Tirzepatide: The New Challenger
Tirzepatide is relatively new to the market and works by activating both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors. This dual-action approach is theorized to offer more potent effects on weight loss and glucose control.
Advantages:
Early studies indicate that Tirzepatide may offer superior glucose-lowering effects and weight loss compared to GLP-1 agonists alone. The medication could potentially provide an improvement in treatment outcomes for individuals with type 2 diabetes, particularly those who are also focusing on weight loss as part of their treatment goals.
Considerations:
As a newer medication, Tirzepatide’s long-term safety profile is still being established. Patients may experience side effects similar to other medications in the GLP-1 class, and close monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.
Choosing the Right GLP-1 Medication with Layla
At Layla, we provide a comprehensive overview of the GLP-1 medication options available in our program, detailing the benefits and considerations of each to help you make an informed decision for diabetes management or weight loss.
Semaglutide
A widely chosen GLP-1 medication, Semaglutide boasts a high satisfaction rate among patients due to its convenience of once-weekly dosing and efficacy in reducing blood sugar levels and aiding weight loss. When selecting Semaglutide through Layla, consider how its dosing schedule and health benefits align with your lifestyle.
What makes Semaglutide a highly effective choice?
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Acts on biological factors that can prevent weight loss
Suppresses appetite & helps you feel fuller, longer
Helps control blood sugars

Can I feel confident in the safety of Semaglutide?
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3 MONTH STARTER PROGRAM
● Best value option
● Ideal for those commencing their weight loss journey
● Convenient billing method: $247 charged monthly
● Doses start at 0.25 mg/week, escalating to 2.5 mg/week (totaling 10 mg)
● Limited to one use per customer

MONTHLY PROGRAM
● $297 per month
● Available for customers starting at a higher dose or already on medication

How does the program work?
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STEP 1: Place your order online and complete a medical intake form detailing your health and weight loss goals.

STEP 2: Connect with your physician through our HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform. No more waiting weeks or months for appointments.

STEP 3: Once approved, your prescription is sent to a pharmacy, which will deliver the medication straight to your door.

STEP 4: Ongoing Support. We regularly check in with you to ensure you're maximizing the benefits of our program. Our support team is available for chat, and you can message your doctor anytime with questions.

See available plans
Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide stands as a powerful GLP-1 medication alternative, particularly for those seeking an effective diabetes and weight management solution with a more spaced dosing regimen. Its administration through injections allows for flexible treatment planning tailored to individual needs.
What makes Tirzepatide a highly effective choice?
Caret

Acts on biological factors that can prevent weight loss
Suppresses appetite & helps you feel fuller, longer
Helps control blood sugars

Can I feel confident in the safety of Tirzepatide?
Caret

3 MONTH STARTER PROGRAM
● Best value option
● Ideal for those commencing their weight loss journey
● Convenient billing method: $247 charged monthly
● Doses start at 0.25 mg/week, escalating to 2.5 mg/week (totaling 10 mg)
● Limited to one use per customer

MONTHLY PROGRAM
● $297 per month
● Available for customers starting at a higher dose or already on medication

How does the program work?
Caret

STEP 1: Place your order online and complete a medical intake form detailing your health and weight loss goals.

STEP 2: Connect with your physician through our HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform. No more waiting weeks or months for appointments.

STEP 3: Once approved, your prescription is sent to a pharmacy, which will deliver the medication straight to your door.

STEP 4: Ongoing Support. We regularly check in with you to ensure you're maximizing the benefits of our program. Our support team is available for chat, and you can message your doctor anytime with questions.

See available plans

Unsure about the right treatment?

Our team can help. Answer a few quick questions about yourself, and we'll guide you to the most suitable treatment option.