WEIGHT LOSS INJECTIONS & ORAL MEDICATION

Weight loss injections and oral administration aid in swift weight loss. They are endorsed by both the Singapore Health Sciences Authority (HSA) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

About Weight Loss Injections & Oral Medication

Weight loss injections like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Saxenda, as well as the oral medication Rybelsus, belong to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medications are used to aid weight loss by affecting appetite regulation and metabolism.

Here's a brief overview of each:

1. Wegovy (semaglutide): Wegovy is an injectable medication containing semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It works by mimicking the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which helps regulate blood sugar levels and appetite. Wegovy is administered once weekly and has been approved by both HSA and FDA for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight individuals with weight-related health conditions.

2. Ozempic (semaglutide): Ozempic is also a GLP-1 receptor agonist that contains semaglutide. It is primarily used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes but has also been approved for weight management in individuals with obesity or overweight individuals with weight-related health conditions. Ozempic is administered as a once-weekly injection.

3. Saxenda (liraglutide): Saxenda contains liraglutide, another GLP-1 receptor agonist. Like Wegovy and Ozempic, Saxenda works by regulating appetite and metabolism. It is administered once daily via injection and is both HSA and FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight individuals with weight-related health conditions.

4. Rybelsus (semaglutide): Rybelsus is unique among these medications as it is taken orally rather than via injection. It also contains semaglutide, the same active ingredient found in Wegovy and Ozempic. Rybelsus is a once-daily tablet used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and has also been approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight individuals with weight-related health conditions.

How Do They Work?

Weight loss injections and oral medications do not directly induce the removal of fat cells from the body. Instead, they function by diminishing appetite and suppressing cravings, thereby assisting individuals in maintaining their dietary goals and avoiding unhealthy eating patterns. Consequently, these medications aid in:

1. Appetite Regulation: GLP-1 receptor agonists act on receptors in the brain that control appetite, specifically in the hypothalamus, which is the region responsible for regulating hunger and satiety. By activating these receptors, GLP-1 receptor agonists can help reduce feelings of hunger and promote a sense of fullness or satiety after eating. This leads to decreased food intake and can contribute to weight loss.

2. Slowing Gastric Emptying: GLP-1 receptor agonists can also slow down the rate at which the stomach empties its contents into the small intestine. This delay in gastric emptying can further enhance feelings of fullness and help control appetite.

3. Blood Sugar Regulation: In addition to their effects on appetite and digestion, GLP-1 receptor agonists can also improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes, as it helps improve glucose control.

4. Metabolism: GLP-1 receptor agonists may also have effects on metabolism, including increasing the body's use of calories for energy and promoting the breakdown of fat stores.

What are the Benefits?

1. Wegovy (semaglutide):

Effective appetite suppression leading to reduced food intake.
Enhanced feelings of fullness and satiety.
Improved blood sugar control.
Reduction in body weight over time.

2. Ozempic (semaglutide):

Appetite reduction, aiding in decreased calorie consumption.
Regulation of hunger and satiety signals in the brain.
Support for better blood sugar management.
Gradual weight loss with continued use.

3. Saxenda (liraglutide):

Appetite suppression, helping to control food cravings.
Delayed gastric emptying, contributing to feelings of fullness.
Enhanced insulin sensitivity, assisting in blood sugar regulation.
Progressive weight loss as part of a comprehensive weight management plan.

4. Rybelsus (semaglutide):

Oral administration, providing convenience for some individuals.
Appetite control and reduced food intake.
Regulation of hunger and satiety hormones.
Improved glucose metabolism and potential weight reduction.

These benefits highlight the diverse mechanisms through which these medications aid in weight loss and overall health management. However, it's important to note that individual responses may vary, and these medications should be used as part of a comprehensive approach to weight management under the guidance of your doctor.

Are There Any Side Effects?

As with any medication, some patients might encounter some potential side effects. However, it is crucial to understand that these effects may not manifest in every individual and can vary in intensity. In general, most side effects are manageable and tend to diminish over time as the body adapts to the medication.

Wegovy Common Side Effects:
Gastrointestinal discomfort like nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. These usually diminish as the body adjusts to the medication. Less common side effects may include vomiting, headache, fatigue, dizziness, or indigestion. These are typically mild to moderate and tend to resolve with continued use.

Saxenda Common Side Effects:
Mild and transient side effects, including nausea (typically decreasing over time), digestive changes (e.g., diarrhea or constipation), appetite reduction, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue, which usually improve as the body adapts.

Ozempic Common Side Effects:
Nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation are among the most common side effects.

Rybelsus Common Side Effects:
Common side effects include stomach pain, diarrhea, decreased appetite, vomiting, and constipation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who are these medications suitable for?

These medications are typically prescribed for adults with obesity or overweight individuals with weight-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes. However, suitability may vary depending on individual health factors, and it's important to consult with your doctor.

2. How are these medications administered?

Wegovy, Ozempic, and Saxenda are administered via injection, typically once a week for Wegovy and Ozempic, and once daily for Saxenda. Rybelsus, on the other hand, is taken orally as a tablet once daily.

3. How soon can I expect to see results?