This is an injectable drug you use once a week. It curbs your appetite and helps you lose weight. With it, you may lose more weight than you would with diet and exercise alone. This can make you feel better and let you be more active. And losing weight lowers your risk for serious issues like heart attack and stroke.
How does it work? Semaglutide comes in an injection pen. That's a prefilled syringe you use to give yourself an injection. The pen may have a dial you rotate to choose the amount of medication your doctor has prescribed. You inject it into the fat cells just under your skin. Commonly, you'll choose your upper arm, thigh or stomach. You'll give yourself an injection the same day every week.
Semaglutide does have side effects such as nausea, dizziness and fatigue. You may have headaches. You may have vomiting, constipation or diarrhea or other issues. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose if you have any of these problems. Also, you should know that this drug isn't safe for everyone. It may raise your risk for thyroid cancer or other serious conditions. Before taking it, make sure your doctor knows about all medical conditions you have and all medications and supplements you're taking, both prescription and over-the-counter.
Semaglutide can be helpful for many people when used correctly. So read all the instructions and warnings. Take it only as directed. For more info, talk to your doctor.