Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and has also been studied for weight loss.
The most common adverse reactions include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and bloating, which are especially noticeable at the beginning of the medication and may decrease with prolonged treatment.
In severe cases, it may lead to hydroelectrolyte disorders or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
When used in combination with other hypoglycemic agents (e.g., insulin or sulfonylureas), it may cause hypoglycemia due to synergistic effects, manifested by sweating, palpitations, and tremors.
Rare but serious, symptoms include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, requiring immediate discontinuation of the drug and medical attention.
May induce enlargement or abnormal function of the thyroid gland, especially in patients with a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or related genetic syndromes need to be contraindicated.
Cardiac Reactions: e.g., rapid heartbeat, arrhythmias.
Renal Impairment: Long-term use may require monitoring of urine output and renal function.
Currently, only Semaglutide is approved for type 2 diabetes treatment in China, and the weight reduction indication is still in the phase III clinical trial stage and has not been formally approved.
If over-indication is used for weight reduction, the following risks should be noted:
Weight reduction requires higher doses (e.g., injectable dosage forms), which may aggravate symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Although less common in non-diabetic individuals, higher doses may still pose a risk of hypoglycemia, especially if combined with other factors affecting blood sugar.
Long-term use may affect liver function (e.g., jaundice, fatigue) or kidney function (e.g., decreased urine output, edema).
Including headache, dizziness, insomnia, etc., which may affect the quality of life.
Pancreatitis and Thyroid Problems: Same as in the diabetic group.
Allergic Reactions: e.g., rash, hives, breathing difficulties.
Diabetic Patients: Need to strictly follow the doctor’s instructions, avoid self-adjustment of the dose or co-administration of other drugs.
Weight Loss Individuals: Need to meet the criteria of BMI ≥ 27 and combined related diseases (such as hypertension), or BMI ≥ 30, otherwise the risk of abuse is high.
Liver and kidney function, blood glucose, thyroid function, and other indicators should be checked regularly.
Experts emphasize that “keep your mouth shut and keep your legs open” is the basis, and drugs are only used as an auxiliary means, and should be used under the guidance of doctors.
The side effects of Semaglutide in diabetic patients are mainly gastrointestinal reactions and hypoglycemia, while people who have lost weight may face a wider range of risks, including hepatic and renal impairment and neurological symptoms.
In either population, strict adherence to medication regimens is required to avoid self-purchase or over-indication use.
It is recommended to combine with lifestyle modification and scientific management of health.
The information is obtained from the Internet and is for reference only.