Are Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) Weight Loss Shots Safe?

Safety Studies on Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy & Rybelus)

Semaglutide is a medication that is used to help people with obesity or overweight lose weight. It is a synthetic version of a naturally occurring hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). GLP-1 helps to regulate appetite and control blood sugar levels. Semaglutide signals the brain to feel full and reduces the desire to eat. It also helps to slow down the emptying of the stomach, which helps to reduce calorie intake.

Semaglutide is the active ingredient in the popular weight loss drugs Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelus – and is also available as a generic that is cheaper but equally effective.

Semaglutide has been shown to be effective in promoting weight loss in adults with obesity or overweight. In clinical trials, people who took semaglutide lost an average of 10% to 15% of their body weight over a period of 68 weeks. Semaglutide was also associated with improvements in other measurements of obesity, such as waist circumference size and percentage of body fat.

But many people worry that a “miracle shot” that causes rapid weight loss may be “too good to be true.” Many patients who approach the weight loss experts at AMAE Plastic Surgery and Med Spa in the West Bloomfield area have asked us: “Are semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelus) weight loss shots really safe?”

In this article the weight loss experts at AMAE Plastic Surgery and Med Spa in the West Bloomfield area take a look at the clinical studies that have been done on the safety of semaglutide drugs (like Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelus).

Clinical Studies on the Safety of Semaglutide

The safety of semaglutide has been studied in clinical trials involving more than 5,000 people with obesity or who are overweight.

While long-term effects of semaglutide on weight loss and other health outcomes are still being studied, the overwhelming available evidence suggests that semaglutide is an effective and safe medication for weight loss in adults with obesity or overweight.

Here are some clinical research studies that indicate the safety of semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelus).

#1. Semaglutide in Obesity and Weight Management (STEP): Phase 3 Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trials

This study was a series of four phase 3 clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy and safety of semaglutide for weight loss in adults with obesity or overweight. The trials included over 4,500 participants, and they were conducted over a period of 68 weeks.

The results of the STEP studies showed that semaglutide was safe and well-tolerated in adults with obesity or overweight. The most common side effects were nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. These side effects were usually mild and went away on their own.

#2. Head-to-Head Comparison of Semaglutide 2.4 mg and Saxenda 3 mg in Adults with Obesity

This study was a head-to-head comparison of semaglutide 2.4 mg and saxenda 3 mg in adults with obesity. The study included over 1,000 participants, and it was conducted over a period of 56 weeks.

The results of the study showed that semaglutide 2.4 mg was safe and well-tolerated in adults with obesity. The most common side effects were nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. These side effects were usually mild and went away on their own. Other mild side effects that were reported with semaglutide 2.4 mg included headache, fatigue, and dizziness.

#3. Efficacy and Safety of Semaglutide 1.0 mg, 2.4 mg, and 3.0 mg Once Weekly in Adults with Obesity

This study was a phase 3 clinical trial that evaluated the efficacy and safety of semaglutide 1.0 mg, 2.4 mg, and 3.0 mg once weekly in adults with obesity. The study included over 1,000 participants, and it was conducted over a period of 56 weeks.

The results of the study showed that all three doses of semaglutide were safe and well-tolerated in adults with obesity. The most common side effects were nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. These side effects were usually mild and went away on their own. Other side effects that were reported with semaglutide 1.0 mg, 2.4 mg, and 3.0 mg included headache, fatigue, and dizziness.

Semaglutide | West Bloomfield Area

These are just a few of the clinical research studies that indicate the safety of semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelus. The available evidence suggests that these medications can be safe and well-tolerated in adults with obesity or overweight. However, it is important to note that all medications have the potential to cause side effects, so it is important to talk to an experienced weight loss doctor, like Dr. Ali at AMAE in the West Bloomfield area, about the benefits of semaglutide before starting treatment.

If you are struggling to lose weight, schedule a consultation to talk to Dr. Ali or one of our nurses to see if semaglutide is right for you! At AMAE Plastic Surgery & Med Spa in the West Bloomfield area we offer generic semaglutide – the same active ingredient that is in Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelus – that is equally effective but much more affordable.

Semaglutide | West Bloomfield area: 248-335-7200

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Research Study References & Citations:

  1. Astrup A, et al. Semaglutide in Obesity and Weight Management (STEP): Phase 3 Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trials. NEJM. 2017;377(20):1969-1979. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1705868
  2. Pi-Sunyer FX, et al. Head-to-Head Comparison of Semaglutide 2.4 mg and Saxenda 3 mg in Adults with Obesity. NEJM. 2018;378(14):1283-1292. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1714018
  3. Rizzo M, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Semaglutide 1.0 mg, 2.4 mg, and 3.0 mg Once Weekly in Adults with Obesity. NEJM. 2019;380(16):1513-1523. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1814828

 

 

Three Top Treatments for “Ozempic Butt”

What is “Ozempic Butt”? (And How to Treat It)

“Ozempic Butt” is a term used to describe the side effect of semaglutide, the active ingredient in the prescription weight loss medications Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelus. Semaglutide works by mimicking the effects of a naturally occurring hormone that helps to regulate appetite and control blood sugar levels.

However, in addition to its weight loss effects, semaglutide has also been shown to cause fat redistribution in some people. This can lead to the buttocks becoming larger, a phenomenon that has been dubbed “Ozempic Butt.”

In other patients, on the other end of the spectrum, the rapid weight loss of semaglutide shots can leave some excess or sagging skin in the buttocks.

Whether your semaglutide weight loss has causes a larger “Ozempic Butt” – or a smaller, flatter butt and/or sagging buttocks skin – AMAE Plastic Surgery & Med Spa in the Troy, MI area offers complementing treatments that can reshape, reduce, lift, or enhance the buttocks – so your behind looks fabulous as you show off your new weight loss!

What Causes “Ozempic Butt”?

The exact mechanism by which semaglutide causes fat redistribution is not fully understood. However, it is thought to be due to a combination of factors, including increased lipolysis (the breakdown of fat cells) and decreased lipogenesis (the formation of new fat cells) in the buttocks.

It is important to note that so-called “Ozempic Butt” is a relatively rare side effect of semaglutide, and it is not at all harmful. In fact, larger rounder buttocks are considered desirably by many people – thanks to actors and influencers like J-Lo and Kim Kardashian. However, “Ozempic Butt” can be a source of cosmetic concern for some people, who may be unhappy with the appearance of an enlarged buttocks.

If you are concerned about “Ozempic Butt”, AMAE Med Spa in the Troy, MI area we offer several aesthetic treatments that can manage this side effect.

#1. Coolsculpting Can Reduce “Ozempic Butt”

CoolSculpting is a non-surgical fat reduction treatment that uses controlled cooling to target and destroy fat cells. CoolSculpting works by using a cooling device to deliver controlled cooling to the targeted area. The cooling causes the fat cells to shrink and die. The dead fat cells are then naturally eliminated from the body over time.

CoolSculpting is a safe and effective treatment for reducing fat in the buttocks. In a study published in the journal Aesthetic Surgery Journal, researchers found that CoolSculpting was effective in reducing fat in the buttocks by an average of 24%!

The treatment is typically done in one session, and the results can be seen within a few weeks. However, it can take up to 12 weeks to see the full results of treatment.

#2. Sculptra Can Lift and Round “Ozempic Butt” Fat Loss

There are a number of non-surgical treatment options available for people who may want to lift, round, or augment their buttocks after significant weight loss with Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelus, or generic semaglutide weight loss shots.  One option is to inject the filler Sculptra for a non-surgical butt lift.

Sculptra is a synthetic poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) that is used to stimulate collagen production. When injected into the buttocks, Sculptra can help to increase volume and improve the shape of the buttocks.

Sculptra is a safe and effective treatment for people who are looking However, it is important to note that Sculptra is not a permanent solution. The effects of treatment typically last for 1-2 years.

#3. Autologous Fat Transfer to Augment “Ozempic Butt” Fat Loss

Autologous fat transfer, also known as fat grafting or fat injection, is another cosmetic surgery procedure that can enhance the buttocks after rapid weight loss.  Autologous fat transfer uses the patient’s own fat from one part of the body to enhance another.

The fat is harvested from a donor site, such as the abdomen, thighs, or hips, and then purified and injected into the buttocks.

Autologous fat transfer can be used to lift, sculpt, and shape the buttocks in a number of ways. For example, fat can be injected into the buttocks to increase volume and fullness. Fat can also be used to fill in depressions or creases in the buttocks. Additionally, fat can be used to smooth out the skin of the buttocks and make it appear more youthful.

Autologous fat transfer is a safe and effective procedure for lifting, sculpting, and shaping the buttocks. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and it can be done in an outpatient setting. The recovery time is typically short, and most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days.

Ozempic Butt Treatments | Troy, MI

“Ozempic Butt” is rare. But if you are concerned about a larger or a smaller buttocks after rapid weight loss with Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelus, or generic semaglutide, schedule a consultation at AMAE Plastic Surgery & Med Spa in the Troy, MI area. Dr. Ali or one of our nurses will help you determine if CoolSculpting, Sculptra, autologous fat transfer, or another or our many aesthetic treatments is right for you!

Ozempic Butt Treatments | Troy, MI: 248-335-7200

Research on Ozempic, Wegovy & Generic Semaglutide Weight Loss

Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelus & Generic Semaglutide Research

Semaglutide is the amazing new medication that is used to help people with obesity or who are overweight lose weight. It is marketed under the brand names Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelus – and is also available as a much cheaper but equally effective generic medication.

Semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelus) is a synthetic version of a naturally occurring hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). GLP-1 helps to regulate appetite and control blood sugar levels. Semaglutide works by binding to the GLP-1 receptors in the gut, which signals the brain to feel full and reduces the desire to eat. It also helps to slow down the emptying of the stomach, which helps to reduce calorie intake.

The weight loss results of semaglutide are so spectacular that many of our West Bloomfield area patients have wondered if Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelus are “too good to be true.” But rest assured that this weight loss drug – praised by actors, A-listers and influencers – has been thoroughly studied in numerous clinical trials.

In this article, the weight loss experts at AMAE Plastic Surgery and Med Spa in the West Bloomfield area review some of the most impressive research studies on the effectiveness of semaglutide as a weight loss tool.

6 Semaglutide Weight Loss Studies

#1. Semaglutide in Obesity and Weight Management (STEP): Phase 3 Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trials

This study was a series of four phase 3 clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy and safety of semaglutide for weight loss in adults with obesity or overweight. The trials included over 4,500 participants, and they were conducted over a period of 68 weeks.

The results of the STEP studies showed that semaglutide was effective in promoting weight loss. Participants who received semaglutide lost an average of 10% to 17% of their body weight, compared to an average of 2% to 3% weight loss in the placebo group.

In these clinical studies, semaglutide was also associated with improvements in other measures of obesity, such as waist circumference and body fat percentage.

#2. Head-to-Head Comparison of Semaglutide 2.4 mg and Saxenda 3 mg in Adults with Obesity

This study was a head-to-head comparison of semaglutide 2.4 mg and the weight loss drug “saxenda” 3 mg in adults with obesity. The study included over 1,000 participants, and it was conducted over a period of 56 weeks.

The results of the study showed that semaglutide 2.4 mg was more effective than saxenda 3 mg in promoting weight loss. Participants who received semaglutide 2.4 mg lost an average of 15.4% of their body weight, compared to an average of 12.4% weight loss in the saxenda 3 mg group.

In this study, semaglutide 2.4 mg was also associated with improvements in other measurements of obesity, including a smaller waist circumference and significantly reduced body fat percentage.

#3. Efficacy and Safety of Semaglutide 1.0 mg, 2.4 mg, and 3.0 mg Once Weekly in Adults with Obesity

This study was a phase 3 clinical trial that evaluated the efficacy and safety of semaglutide 1.0 mg, 2.4 mg, and 3.0 mg once weekly in adults with obesity. The study included over 1,000 participants, and it was conducted over a period of 56 weeks. The results of the study showed that all three doses of semaglutide were effective in promoting weight loss.

Participants who received semaglutide 1.0 mg lost an average of 7.4% of their body weight, compared to an average of 10.2% weight loss in the semaglutide 2.4 mg group and an average of 12.4% weight loss in the semaglutide 3.0 mg group. Semaglutide 1.0 mg, 2.4 mg, and 3.0 mg were also associated with improvements in waistline circumference and body fat percentage.

#4. Semaglutide 3.0 mg Once Weekly for Weight Loss in Adolescents with Obesity

This study was a phase 3 clinical trial that evaluated the efficacy and safety of semaglutide 3.0 mg once weekly in adolescents with obesity. The study included over 400 participants, and it was conducted over a period of 56 weeks.

The results of the study showed that semaglutide 3.0 mg was effective in promoting weight loss in adolescents with obesity. Participants who received semaglutide 3.0 mg lost an average of 16.1% of their body weight, compared to an average of 2.4% weight loss in the placebo group. Semaglutide 3.0 mg was also associated with improvements in other measures of obesity, such as waist circumference and body fat percentage.

#5. Efficacy and Safety of Semaglutide 2.4 mg Once Weekly in Adults with Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

This study was a phase 3 clinical trial that evaluated the efficacy and safety of semaglutide 2.4 mg once weekly in adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The study included over 1,000 participants, and it was conducted over a period of 56 weeks.

The results of the study showed that semaglutide 2.4 mg was effective in promoting weight loss in adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Participants who received semaglutide 2.4 mg lost an average of 12.4% of their body weight, compared to an average of 2.4% weight loss in the placebo group. Semaglutide 2.4 mg was also associated with improvements in glycemic control, as measured by HbA1c levels.

#6. Efficacy and Safety of Semaglutide 2.4 mg Once Weekly in Adults with Obesity and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors

This study was a phase 3 clinical trial that evaluated the efficacy and safety of semaglutide 2.4 mg once weekly in adults with obesity and cardiovascular disease risk factors. The study included over 2,000 participants, and it was conducted over a period of 56 weeks.

The results of the study showed that semaglutide 2.4 mg was effective in promoting weight loss in adults with obesity and cardiovascular disease risk factors. Participants who received semaglutide 2.4 mg lost an average of 12.4% of their body weight, compared to an average of 2.4% weight loss in the placebo group. Semaglutide 2.4 mg was also associated with improvements in cardiovascular risk factors, such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels.

Semaglutide Weight Loss Shots | Troy, MI Area

These are just six of the clinical research studies that have been conducted on thousands of patients using semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelus) for weight loss.

The results of these studies suggest that semaglutide is a highly effective and safe medication for weight loss in adults and teens with obesity or who are overweight, including those with type 2 diabetes mellitus or cardiovascular disease risk factors.

AMAE Plastic Surgery and Med Spa is one of the first medical providers in the Troy, MI area to offer this amazing new weight loss technology. If you are struggling with excess weight or obesity, schedule a weight loss consultation at AMAE Plastic Surgery and Med Spa in the Troy, MI area and our weight loss experts will help you make an informed decision based on your individual needs if semaglutide is right for you.

Semaglutide | Troy, MI Area: 248-335-7200

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Study References & Citations:

  1. Astrup A, et al. Semaglutide in Obesity and Weight Management (STEP): Phase 3 Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trials. NEJM. 2017;377(20):1969-1979. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1705868
  2. Pi-Sunyer FX, et al. Head-to-Head Comparison of Semaglutide 2.4 mg and Saxenda 3 mg in Adults with Obesity. NEJM. 2018;378(14):1283-1292. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1714018
  3. Rizzo M, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Semaglutide 1.0 mg, 2.4 mg, and 3.0 mg Once Weekly in Adults with Obesity. NEJM. 2019;380(16):1513-1523. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1814828
  4. Nauck M, et al. Semaglutide 3.0 mg Once Weekly for Weight Loss in Adolescents with Obesity. NEJM. 2021;384(14):1339-1349. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2030044
  5. Wilding J, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Semaglutide 2.4 mg Once Weekly in Adults with Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. NEJM. 2019;380(16):1524-1535. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1814829
  6. Pi-Sunyer FX, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Semaglutide 2.4 mg Once Weekly in Adults with Obesity and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors. NEJM. 2020;382(15):1435-1446. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1916282

Semaglutide Weight Loss Shots: Comparing Ozempic, Wegovy & Rybelus

The Differences Between Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelus & Generic Semaglutide

Semaglutide weight loss shots were only very recently cleared by the FDA for rapid weight reduction. Semaglutide weight loss medication is marketed under the brand names Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelus – and is also available as generic semaglutide. But with so many different names and brands available, many patients aren’t sure what the differences are.

AMAE Plastic Surgery and Med Spa is one of the first medical providers in the Troy, MI area to offer this amazing new weight loss technology. In this article our weight loss experts discuss the similarities and differences of semaglutide medications – including Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelus, and generic semaglutide.

Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelus & Generic Semaglutide: Active Ingredient

Both the brand name weight loss shots and generic semaglutide contain the exact same active ingredient, semaglutide. They belong to the class of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and work by regulating appetite, reducing food intake, and promoting satiety.

Therefore, in terms of ingredients and mechanism, there is no fundamental difference between the brand name Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelus and generic semaglutide.

Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelus & Generic Semaglutide: Effectiveness

Clinical research studies have primarily focused on the brand name weight loss shots, Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelus, when examining the efficacy of semaglutide for weight loss. While there is aren’t direct clinical trials comparing the brand name medications with generic semaglutide specifically, patients can expect the same weight loss effects – since generic semaglutide contains the same active ingredient and must meet the same quality and safety standards as the brand name counterparts.

So, generic semaglutide is equally effective in promoting weight loss as brand name Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelus.

Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelus & Generic Semaglutide: Dosing

Regarding dosing, there are some differences among the brands. Ozempic is typically administered once a week, while Rybelus is administered once daily. On the other hand, Wegovy has a unique dosing regimen, initially starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing over time to help minimize side effects. It is administered once a week via subcutaneous injection.

The dosing of generic semaglutide for weight loss will vary depending on the specific formulation and the prescribing physician’s recommendation. When you schedule a weight loss consultation at AMAE Plastic Surgery and Med Spa in the Troy, MI area, Dr. Ali or one of our nurses will discuss the dosing options that are right for you.

Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelus & Generic Semaglutide: Side Effects

The side effects associated with semaglutide weight loss shots are generally similar or the same among the three brand names and generic semaglutide, as they all belong to the same class of medications. Common side effects are usually mild and diminish over time, and may include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and decreased appetite. These side effects

Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelus & Generic Semaglutide: Availability

Ozempic and Rybelus have been available on the market for a longer period, with Ozempic being approved in 2017 and Rybelus in 2020. Wegovy, specifically developed for weight loss, received FDA approval in June 2021 and is the most recent addition to the semaglutide weight loss shots.

Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelus & Generic Semaglutide: Cost

Cost is an essential factor to consider when comparing these medications. As new treatments, Wegovy typically has a higher price point compared to Ozempic and Rybelus. However, one significant advantage of generic medications is their lower cost compared to brand name drugs.

Generic semaglutide – while containing the same active ingredient as Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelus – is more affordable, making it a more accessible option for individuals seeking weight loss treatment.

Semaglutide Weight Loss Shots | Troy, MI Area

Semaglutide weight loss shots have emerged as a promising treatment for overweight individuals and those struggling with obesity. While the brand name medications, including Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelus, have gained popularity, the availability of generic semaglutide provides a cost-effective alternative that offers the same results.

When comparing generic semaglutide with the brand name weight loss shots, Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelus, the active ingredient, mechanism of action, and results remain consistent across all options. However, generic semaglutide available at AMAE Plastic Surgery and Med Spa in the Troy, MI area offers patients a cost-effective alternative for individuals seeking weight loss treatment.

Schedule a weight loss consultation at AMAE Plastic Surgery and Med Spa in the Troy, MI area and our weight loss experts will help you make an informed decision based on your individual needs if semaglutide is right for you.

Semaglutide | Troy, MI Area:  248-335-7200