Is it possible to just inject fat away? The active ingredient semaglutide is touted as a means of this. However, not everyone is suitable for treatment with semaglutide.
The drug is a syringe containing the active ingredient semaglutide, which was developed to treat obesity, also known as obesity. It received approval in the United States in June 2021, and the drug has been approved in Europe since January 2022. The study data so far is promising: participants have achieved an average weight reduction of 15 percent within one year.
Why the prescription drug is not available in Germany, for whom it is intended, how it works and whether it can be regarded as a miracle cure for weight loss for the summer figure, you can find out in our guide.
How does semaglutide work?
Semaglutide works similarly to the body's own hormone GLP-1, which, among other things, inhibits appetite. Semaglutide has already been approved as an active ingredient in the injection solution for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. The drug has the positive side effect that many users lose weight.
To further enhance this effect, a new drug has been developed. It is a high-dose medicine containing semaglutide, which is also given as a solution for injection in a pre-filled pen.
When is the drug available in Germany?
Although the slimming syringe with the active ingredient semaglutide has received approval for the European market, it is currently not yet available in Germany. The market entry was postponed several times, mainly due to the high demand in the USA, which was initially intended to meet the demand there. The planned market launch for the EU is now mid-2023. At this time, the drug could also be available in Germany, but only on prescription and for self-payers.
According to Spiegel online, the list price for a pack of four syringes is the equivalent of around 1200 euros. It is still unclear how high the costs will be in Germany. It remains to be seen how the exact price will be determined and what reimbursement options will be available.
For whom is the drug suitable?
The slimming syringe is approved in combination with a diet and physical activity for:
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- Obesity in adults, defined as a body mass index (BMI) over 30.
- Obesity in adults with a BMI over 27, associated with health problems such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
It is important to note that semaglutide is not approved for use in mild obesity without diabetes and is only available on prescription. Interested persons should therefore discuss with their doctor whether treatment with the injection is an option for them.
What do studies say about the drug?
Studies carried out so far provide convincing results regarding the high-dose drug. Several studies have shown that the drug can help severely overweight people lose weight. In a large study, about 2,000 severely overweight participants, mostly women with an average weight of about 105 kilograms, were randomly divided into two groups.
The group that injected semaglutide weekly lost an average of 17.15 kilograms over 3 months, which is about 15 percent of their body weight. In comparison, the weight loss in the comparison group was only 2.6 kilograms. This weight loss was significantly greater than in studies with other weight-loss drugs.
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Side effects and lack of long-term studies
The risks of long-term use have not yet been sufficiently researched. During the study, about three out of four participants experienced gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea and diarrhea.
It should be emphasized that the study participants were intensively supported in reducing their calorie intake and being physically active for at least 150 minutes per week. Such lifestyle changes remain inevitable even with weight loss with the help of the syringe. Otherwise, there is a risk that the lost pounds will easily return after stopping the drug.
What other ways are there to lose weight?
Coping with obesity requires a combination of a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and possibly other measures. Here are some approaches that can help you get obesity under control:
- Healthy nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet with a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Avoid overly processed foods, sugary drinks, and large portions.
Control portions: Be sure to keep track of portion sizes and be aware of when you're really full. Listen to your body and eat slowly.
Regular physical activity: Strive for an active way of life. Engage in regular physical activity that brings you joy, such as walks, cycling, swimming, or fitness classes.
Behavior: Identify emotional eating or unhealthy eating habits and try to find alternative strategies for coping with stress or emotional distress, such as through exercise, relaxation techniques, or social support.
- Seek support: Get support from professionals such as nutritionists, sports coaches, or doctors. They can provide customized guidance and tips to help you achieve your weight loss goals.
This article contains only general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It is in no way a substitute for a visit to the doctor. Unfortunately, individual questions about clinical pictures may not be answered by our editors.
This article was created with the help of machines and carefully reviewed by editor Alina Wagner before publication.
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