Weight Loss Knox Medical Weight Loss Clinic
FDA-Approved Treatment

Semaglutide for
Medical Weight Loss

The clinically proven standard in medical weight loss. Experience the benefits of Wegovy® and Ozempic® with our physician-supervised program.

Key Takeaways

  • Proven Efficacy: Average 15% weight loss in clinical trials.
  • Heart Health: Reduces risk of major cardiovascular events by 20%.
  • Established Safety: Years of real-world data and safety monitoring.
  • Convenient: Once-weekly injection.

What Is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist that has transformed the field of medical weight loss. Developed by Novo Nordisk, it is available as Wegovy for chronic weight management and Ozempic for type 2 diabetes. Wegovy received FDA approval for weight loss in June 2021 and has since become one of the most prescribed weight loss medications in the United States.

Semaglutide was the first GLP-1 medication to demonstrate dramatic weight loss results in clinical trials, paving the way for a new era in obesity medicine. It has the longest track record among the newer GLP-1 weight loss medications and the most robust cardiovascular safety data.

How Does Semaglutide Work?

Semaglutide mimics the natural hormone GLP-1, which your body produces in the gut after eating. By activating GLP-1 receptors throughout the body, semaglutide produces several effects that promote weight loss:

  • Appetite suppression: Semaglutide acts on appetite centers in the brain (hypothalamus) to reduce hunger and food cravings.
  • Delayed gastric emptying: Food stays in the stomach longer, increasing feelings of fullness and satisfaction after smaller meals.
  • Improved insulin sensitivity: Semaglutide enhances the body's response to insulin, improving blood sugar regulation.

Clinical Evidence: The STEP Trial Program

Semaglutide's weight loss efficacy has been extensively studied in the STEP clinical trial program:

STEP 1 Trial

  • Participants on semaglutide 2.4 mg lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight
  • Over one-third of participants lost 20% or more of their body weight
  • Significant improvements in waist circumference and blood pressure

SELECT Trial (Cardiovascular Outcomes)

The groundbreaking SELECT trial demonstrated that semaglutide reduced the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death) by 20% in adults with overweight or obesity and established cardiovascular disease.

Benefits of Semaglutide Treatment

Clinically significant weight loss (~15%)
Proven cardiovascular protection
Reduced inflammation markers
Improved sleep apnea & breathing

Who Is a Candidate for Semaglutide?

Our physicians at Weight Loss Knox evaluate each patient individually. Generally, candidates include:

  • Adults with a BMI of 30 or greater (obesity), or
  • Adults with a BMI of 27 or greater with at least one weight-related condition
  • Patients who may particularly benefit from cardiovascular risk reduction

Treatment Process at Weight Loss Knox

1

Comprehensive Consultation

We start with labs and a full health review to ensure semaglutide is safe for you.

2

Starting Treatment

Begin at 0.25 mg weekly for 4 weeks. We teach proper injection technique.

3

Gradual Dose Escalation

Dose increases every 4 weeks to 2.4 mg maintenance, adjusted for your comfort.

4

Ongoing Care

Regular monitoring of weight, body composition, and labs to optimize results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is semaglutide the same as Ozempic?
Semaglutide is the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. Ozempic is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is approved for weight management at a higher dose.
How long do I need to take it?
Semaglutide is often a long-term treatment. We help you develop a maintenance plan that works for your lifestyle.
What if I experience nausea?
Nausea is common but usually temporary. We recommend eating smaller meals and staying hydrated. We can also adjust your dosing schedule to help.

Start Semaglutide Treatment in Knoxville

Schedule a consultation to learn if semaglutide is right for your weight loss and health goals.