Expected Weight Loss with Semaglutide Over Time: What Patients Can Expect from 1 Month to 1 Year
- Amira I. Quarles – AIQU
- Oct 8, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 30, 2024
Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, is quickly becoming a preferred choice for weight management, especially for those battling obesity or related health conditions. By reducing appetite and slowing digestion, semaglutide makes it easier to adhere to a calorie-restricted diet.
Learn more about how Semaglutide works and how it fits into your weight loss plan on our Semaglutide service page. Also, discover our wide range of personalized treatments, especially our complementary Services designed to address underlying health concerns often linked to excess weight.
Now- Let’s dive into what patients typically experience in terms of weight loss with semaglutide, from the first month up to a year.
1-3 Months: Steady Start
During the first three months, most patients start with a gradual dose increase to help minimize side effects and allow the body to adjust. By the end of this period, many report a 5-6% reduction in body weight. This early stage focuses on building tolerance to the medication, as well as incorporating lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet and increased physical activity.
"By month three, patients taking semaglutide 2.4 mg typically see weight loss of around 6%, according to STEP trials."— (Mayo Clinic Diet)
3-6 Months: Noticeable Change
Between the third and sixth months, weight loss becomes more noticeable, averaging around 10-12% of the initial body weight. This phase often marks a significant reduction as the body adjusts to both the medication and lifestyle changes. Many patients find this period particularly encouraging, as they observe both physical and health improvements.
"In real-world data, patients who used semaglutide for six months experienced a weight loss average of around 10-12% of their baseline weight."— (Healio)
7-9 Months: Sustaining Momentum
As patients move into the seven to nine-month range, the weight loss curve generally slows, but a steady reduction is still achievable. By the nine-month mark, most patients have achieved 12-14% weight loss if they adhere to their treatment and lifestyle plan.
"After nine months, semaglutide patients commonly reach a weight reduction range of 12-14%, especially when lifestyle habits align with the medication."— (Numan)
10-12 Months: Plateau Phase
By the end of one year, patients typically reach 15-17% weight loss. Around this time, weight loss often plateaus, which is normal and expected. Maintaining a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and continuous medication use can help stabilize and sustain these results. This phase emphasizes the importance of long-term lifestyle changes to support the weight loss achieved.
"One year into treatment, weight loss with semaglutide can range from 15% to 17%, with the plateau phase marking a sustained lifestyle shift."— (Everlywell)
After 1 Year: Long-Term Maintenance
After one year of consistent use, semaglutide helps many individuals maintain their weight loss. Continued adherence to lifestyle recommendations can allow some to experience further reductions, while others will stabilize. On average, patients can sustain 15% or more weight loss over the long term, making it a significant part of a sustainable weight management strategy.
"Weight loss maintenance with semaglutide is often around 15%, with potential for further reductions over time if healthy habits are sustained."— Mayo Clinic (Mayo Clinic Diet)
Key Takeaways
1-3 Months: Initial phase with gradual dose adjustments; 5-6% average weight loss.
3-6 Months: Enhanced weight reduction; expect 10-12% weight loss.
7-9 Months: Steady progress; typically, 12-14% weight loss.
10-12 Months: Plateau with a total weight loss around 15-17%.
After 1 Year: Maintenance phase with sustained 15% or more weight loss.
Semaglutide's success lies in combining it with lifestyle adjustments for lasting change. If you’re considering semaglutide as part of your weight loss journey, discuss your goals with a healthcare provider to see if it’s right for you.
For more information on semaglutide and our weight management programs, contact our clinic today to schedule a consultation.
References:
Mayo Clinic Diet. "How long do you spend on semaglutide for weight loss?(Mayo Clinic Diet).
Numan. "Wegovy timeline: what to expect." (Numan).
Healio. "Real-world data show weekly semaglutide effective for weight loss at 3, 6 months." (Healio).
Everlywell. "How Much Weight Can You Lose On Semaglutide?" (Everlywell).
To learn more about GLP1 medication options please visit: Introduction to GLP1 Weightloss Medications and Semaglutide.
Content Information by Amira I. Quarles, CRNP-MSN a practicing Nurse Practitioner, based in Pittsburgh and additionally licensed to treat and prescribe in South Dakota. Please view the following link if you are wanting to "Get to know more about Amira I. Quarles, CRNP." You can also learn more about Amira Q+U by visiting her Amira's linked-in page.
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