Semaglutide is an injectable medication originally approved for treating type 2 diabetes. More recently, a higher dose formulation called Wegovy was approved specifically for chronic weight management. As obesity becomes an increasingly urgent public health issue, there is growing interest in using semaglutide off-label for weight loss. However, there are important considerations for general practitioners (GPs) around prescribing semaglutide for this purpose.
- Efficacy data: Robust clinical trial data shows that, when used alongside diet and exercise, semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss compared to placebo. In trials, patients lost on average 12-15% of their body weight over 68 weeks on the higher Wegovy dose.
- Cost: The Wegovy formulation of semaglutide is extremely expensive, costing over $1,300 per month in the US. It is not yet subsidized by the PBS in Australia for weight loss. Affordability may be prohibitive for many patients. GPs need to determine if the costs justify the potential benefits on an individual basis.
- Side effects: As with any medication, semaglutide carries potential side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, gallbladder issues, increased heart rate, kidney problems, allergic reactions, injection site reactions, and low blood sugar. GPs must educate patients on these risks.
- Long-term uncertainty: While promising for weight loss in the short term, there are still unanswered questions around the long-term safety and efficacy of using semaglutide for weight loss. The trials only followed patients for around 15 months. GPs should exercise appropriate caution.
In summary, while semaglutide holds promise as an anti-obesity medication, GPs should carefully evaluate patients to determine if prescription is clinically appropriate based on the evidence, side effect profile, and affordability. Referral to an
endocrinologist or obesity specialist may also be warranted for more complex cases.
For patients looking to lose weight with
medical supervision,
Vital Hormones Clinic offers individualized programs utilizing various treatments like semaglutide on an off-label basis. Our multi-disciplinary team includes endocrinologists, dietitians, exercise physiologists and nurses to help patients achieve sustainable fat loss and metabolic improvements.
Discuss your options at a consultation today!