Higher Doses of Semaglutide are Safe, More Effective for Weight Loss in Obese Adults, Says Lancet Study

A higher weekly dose of semaglutide, or weight loss shots, is completely safe and significantly improves weight loss in obese adults – including those with type 2 diabetes – an international study said on Monday. The findings, which were the result of two large-scale, international phase 3 clinical trials, were published in The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology journal and suggested that at least 7.2 mg of semaglutide can offer a promising new option for those who have not achieved weight loss with existing treatments. "The currently approved dose of semaglutide is 2.4 mg, and the study showed 7.2 mg is safe and leads to additional weight reduction," the researchers, including those from Canada, the US, Denmark, Norway, and Portugal, wrote.

In adults without diabetes, a 7.2 mg dose of semaglutide led to an average weight loss of nearly 19 per cent, surpassing the 16 per cent loss seen with 2.4 mg and 4 per cent with placebo. Nearly half of the participants on the higher dose lost 20 per cent or more of their body weight, with about one-third losing at least 25 per cent. "Participants also experienced improvements in waist circumference, blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, all key factors in reducing obesity-related health risks," the researchers said. Researchers said that in those adults without diabetes, a 7.2 mg dose can lead to an average weight loss of nearly 19 per cent, which is way beyond the 15 per cent loss they generally achieve with a standard 2.4 mg dose. The study said most of the participants who were put on a higher dose lost around 20 per cent or more of their body weight, and one-third got rid of at least 25 per cent. “Participants also experienced improvements in waist circumference, blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, all key factors in reducing obesity-related health risks,” wrote the researchers. Also, in those with both obesity and diabetes, taking a 7.2 mg dose showed an average 13 per cent weight loss compared to 10 per cent with a 2.4 mg dose, which also resulted in lower blood sugar levels and waist size.

Are there any side effects?

According to experts, there have been a few gastrointestinal side effects of taking semaglutides, which include nausea and diarrhoea, apart from a few sensory symptoms, which include tingling. While most of the side effects have been manageable, doctors say they get resolved in some time. Experts say the dosage does not lead to severe highs or lows in blood sugar levels despite increasing the dose of the drug. “The higher dose could help more people reach their health goals and reduce the burden of obesity-related complications worldwide," said the team.

How does semaglutide help in weight loss?

A semaglutide like Wegovy works by decreasing your appetite and can be used to lower the risk of heart attack and stroke in people affected by excess weight. Changes to diet and exercise are often combined with this medication. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have questions.