Two major clinical trials are the basis for most of what's known about these medications' weight-management effects: STEP 1 (68-week randomized study, adults without diabetes): semaglutide 2.4 mg produced an average loss of roughly 15% of body weight, versus about 2.4% with placebo, alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) slows stomach emptying, promotes feelings of fullness, and stimulates insulin release when blood sugar is high
Post-medication weight trends A study tracked participants after they stopped semaglutide (Wegovy) and showed: Average weight loss after 68 weeks on medication: 17.3% Average weight after 52 weeks post-medication: 5.6% below baseline Weight regained: 11.6% (67% of lost weight) This research demonstrates that without addressing underlying habits, significant weight regain is common after stopping medication
People who jump from 2.5mg directly to 7.5mg or higher often experience severe nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal distress that forces treatment discontinuation
Plus, making sure the foods you eat are high in nutrients will give you the most sustained energy and help you feel your best