Semaglutide is a newer type of injectable medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists which help stimulate the release of insulin when blood sugar levels are high.
Semaglutide was first approved by the FDA in 2017 under the brand name Ozempic and more recently in 2021 under the brand name Wegovy for chronic weight management. Some key points about semaglutide:
- Works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 that helps regulate blood sugar and appetite
- Can lead to significant A1C reductions in type 2 diabetics when combined with diet and exercise
- Shows promise for weight loss and weight maintenance when used off-label
- Comes in a user-friendly prefilled pen that patients inject themselves weekly
- Covered by most major insurance plans for diabetic patients
Will doctors prescribe semaglutide?
- Yes, more and more doctors are prescribing semaglutide like Ozempic and Wegovy to patients. Here are some reasons why:
- Proven efficacy - Large clinical trials have shown that semaglutide is very effective at lowering A1C and promoting weight loss. In the SUSTAIN trial, semaglutide lowered A1C by 1-2% on average which is significant.
- Good safety profile - So far semaglutide has demonstrated a pretty good safety record with the most common side effects being temporary GI issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Risks of low blood sugar also appear minimal.
- Convenience - Being an injection you only have to take semaglutide once a week compared to daily pills. The prefilled, disposable pens are also very easy to use.
- Increased access - Since approval, formulary coverage by payers has greatly expanded making the medication more accessible financially. More availability of generics and biosimilars could further increase access.
However, there are some barriers:
- High costs - Semaglutide is still expensive, sometimes >$1000/month without insurance coverage. Out-of-pocket costs may be prohibitive for some patients.
- Potential side effects - Some less common but serious risks include thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, diabetic retinopathy, kidney issues and suicidal ideation. Need to weigh benefits vs potential risks.
- Not yet FDA approved for weight loss - While results for weight loss have been promising, semaglutide is only officially indicated for A1C control and not yet weight loss. Some insurance may not cover it.
In summary,
with its strong efficacy and safety data, more doctors are prescribing semaglutide for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. For the right patients, it can be an excellent addition to traditional lifestyle changes and other medications, providing improved glycemic control and weight benefits. Cost and access barriers are lessening over time. If struggling with diabetes or
obesity, speak to your doctor about whether semaglutide may be an appropriate option.
The medical providers at
Balance Hormone Clinic specialize in diabetes, thyroid and hormonal issues.
We provide individualized care plans utilizing the latest medical advancements like semaglutide. Contact us today to see if we can help get your health back on track!