Are You a Candidate for Semaglutide, the Groundbreaking Weight Loss Tool Everyone Is Talking About?

Semaglutide has become one of the most talked-about weight loss solutions — offering promising results for those struggling with excess weight. But is it right for you?

Ronald Cohen, MD, and the Coastal Regenerative Orthopedics & Wellness Center team in San Diego, California, offer several types of medication, including semaglutide, as part of our weight loss program. 

Below, learn more about semaglutide and how to tell if you’re a candidate.

What’s semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a medication first used to help treat Type 2 diabetes. It mimics a hormone that regulates appetite, helping you feel fuller for longer and reducing your cravings. When paired with a healthy diet and exercise, semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss. 

According to data published in 2022, the total weight lost by study participants was 5.9% at three months and 10.9% at six months. Some study participants (24%) achieved a weight loss of 15%, and an additional 8% achieved a weight loss of 20%. 

If you weigh 220 pounds, a weight loss of: 

• 10% is 22 pounds
• 15% is 33 pounds 
• 20% is 44 pounds 

That can be a great kick-start to help you reach your weight loss goals!

Signs you’re a candidate for semaglutide

You may be a good candidate for semaglutide if:

Your BMI is 30 or higher

Semaglutide is typically recommended for those classified as obese. Instead of using your weight to classify obesity, check your body mass index (BMI). That’s a better indicator because it accounts for your height and weight. 

Semaglutide is ideal for people with a BMI of 30 or above. 

You have a BMI of 27 and a weight-related health condition

If your BMI is between 27 and 30 and you have a condition like Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, semaglutide may be an option for you. 

The mean weight loss for people with a BMI of 27-plus with one obesity-related condition who received a 2.4-milligram injection of semaglutide is nearly 15% when assessed after 68 weeks.

You’ve struggled to lose weight 

If traditional weight loss methods haven’t worked for you, semaglutide could provide a boost; losing weight may inspire you to stick with your diet and exercise plan. Heather McCracken-Cohen, MPH, RD, our registered dietician, can help identify your nutritional needs.

You’re okay with injections

Semaglutide is administered via subcutaneous injection, usually once a week. If you’re okay with injections, this option may suit you.

Who isn’t a candidate for semaglutide?

Semaglutide isn’t for everyone. It’s not recommended if:

• You’re pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant soon
• You have a family history of thyroid cancer
• You have a history of pancreatitis

Even if semaglutide isn’t right for you, you’re not out of options. Your Coastal Regenerative Orthopedics & Wellness Center provider can recommend other nonsurgical weight loss solutions to help you reach your goals.

Get started with a weight loss consultation 

The only way to know for sure if semaglutide is right for you is to have a consultation. During your one-on-one in our San Diego office, your provider discusses your weight loss goals, takes your health history, and reviews the semaglutide process.

Call us at 858-345-1055 to schedule your weight loss consultation, or book your visit online today.