Clinical Impact of Semaglutide, a Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist, on Obesity Management: A Review

Abstract

Purpose: Obesity and overweight pose a threat to health and are more common than undernutrition among adults. It is categorized by fat accumulation and a body mass index (BMI) of > 30. A significant increase in worldwide obesity has been ongoing over several decades. Over the past few years, several strategies have been followed for weight management and to counteract the increasing prevalence of the disease; however, room for improvement with pharmacological options still exists. This review aimed to digest selected past clinical and experimental studies and understand the role of semaglutide treatment for obesity.

Methods: Articles related to the clinical uses of semaglutide, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and side effects of the drug were identified. Only studies with human subjects who used Semaglutide for obesity management were included and assessed.

Results: Semaglutide promotes weight loss via appetite and hunger suppression, decreases energy intake, controls eating, and depresses the relative fondness for fatty, energy-dense foods. Moreover, the relationship between obesity and Semaglutide has been widely investigated, and most studies reveal the efficacy of Semaglutide on weight loss. Overall, the pharmacokinetics of semaglutide shows a drop in glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and total body weight. The usual adverse effects observed in patients treated with Semaglutide include gastrointestinal adverse events, like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal cramps.

Conclusion: The findings from the review suggest that semaglutide appears to be beneficial, most notably in its contribution to weight reduction.

Keywords: GLP-1; glucagon-like peptide-1; obesity; semaglutide; weight management.