Semaglutide: FDA-Approved Chronic Weight Management
Novo Nordisk's semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic) provides powerful appetite suppression and blood sugar control via weekly subcutaneous injection. This FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist delivers 15% average weight loss—tracked with DEXA to ensure you're losing fat, not muscle. Starting at $199/month.
"I lost 87 lbs on GLP-1s—but I also lost muscle. That's why I track every patient's body composition with DEXA."
— Dr. Josh Lindsley, DO, DABOM · Board-Certified Obesity Medicine
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist—a medication from the field of endocrinology that mimics a hormone your body naturally produces after eating. It provides powerful appetite regulation by signaling to your brain that you're full, reducing hunger and food cravings.
It is a prescription medication with FDA approval for obesity treatment and type 2 diabetes management in appropriate patients.
As a GLP-1 analog, it supports hormonal regulation, improves insulin sensitivity, and drives HbA1c reduction in diabetes medication studies.
Originally developed for type 2 diabetes (as Ozempic®), semaglutide was FDA-approved for weight loss in 2021 under the brand name Wegovy®. Clinical trials showed unprecedented results: 15% average weight loss plus cardiovascular benefits including reduced cardiovascular risk in patients with metabolic syndrome.
Semaglutide has a favorable safety profile with low hypoglycemia risk when used for weight loss (unlike older diabetes medications). At Highland Longevity, we combine semaglutide with DEXA body composition scanning and metabolic testing to ensure you're losing fat—not muscle. Many patients also benefit from hormone optimization to support metabolism and energy during their weight loss journey.
How Semaglutide Works
Semaglutide targets multiple pathways to help you eat less and feel satisfied longer.
Appetite Regulation
Acts on the hypothalamus to decrease hunger signals and increase feelings of fullness—the core mechanism of appetite regulation.
Slows Digestion
Delays gastric emptying so food stays in your stomach longer, extending satiety between meals.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Clinical trials show cardiovascular risk reduction in patients with metabolic syndrome—benefits beyond just weight loss.
Clinical Trial Results
The STEP clinical trials established semaglutide as the most effective FDA-approved weight loss medication.
Source: STEP 1 Clinical Trial (N Engl J Med 2021). Results with 2.4mg weekly dose plus lifestyle intervention.
Real Patient Results
This is why we track body composition, not just weight. The scale doesn't tell the whole story.
Verified DEXA scan data from Highland Longevity patient. Individual results may vary.
Dosing Schedule
We start low and increase gradually to minimize side effects and help your body adjust.
Semaglutide is also available via oral administration as an oral tablet for specific indications, but our dosage here follows the injectable schedule.
Weeks 1-4
Starting dose to assess tolerance
Weeks 5-8
First dose increase
Weeks 9-12
Therapeutic effects begin
Weeks 13-16
Approaching target dose
Week 17+
Full maintenance dose
Side Effects & Safety
Most gastrointestinal side effects are mild, temporary, and occur during the dose escalation period.
Common Side Effects
- Nausea (typically improves after 2-4 weeks)
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Decreased appetite (this is the goal)
- Mild stomach discomfort
- Fatigue during dose increases
When to Call Your Doctor
- Severe or persistent nausea/vomiting
- Signs of pancreatitis (severe abdominal pain)
- Vision changes
- Rapid heartbeat
- Signs of allergic reaction
Is Semaglutide Right for You?
Semaglutide is FDA-approved for specific patient populations.
✓ Good Candidates
- BMI of 30 or higher (obesity)
- BMI of 27+ with weight-related conditions (high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol)
- Previous unsuccessful attempts at diet and exercise alone
- Committed to lifestyle changes alongside medication
- Ready for regular physician monitoring
Not Recommended For
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)
- History of pancreatitis
- Pregnant or planning to become pregnant
- Currently breastfeeding
Frequently Asked Questions
Clinical trials show an average of 15% body weight loss over 68 weeks. 86% of patients lose at least 5% of their body weight, and over 50% lose 15% or more. Results vary based on individual factors and adherence to lifestyle modifications.
Both contain semaglutide. Wegovy is FDA-approved specifically for weight loss at a 2.4mg dose. Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes at lower doses but is often prescribed off-label for weight loss. The medication is identical—only the indication and dosing differ.
Semaglutide is a long-term medication for chronic weight management. Studies show weight loss is maintained at 2+ years with continued treatment. Stopping the medication typically leads to weight regain, which is why we focus on sustainable lifestyle changes alongside medication.
Studies show that stopping semaglutide typically leads to weight regain. This is why we emphasize body composition—preserving muscle mass—and sustainable nutrition habits. Some patients eventually transition off medication; others use it long-term. Your physician will help you decide.
Semaglutide is injected once weekly using a small, thin needle into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Most patients find it nearly painless. We'll teach you the proper injection technique at your first appointment.
Yes—semaglutide was originally developed for type 2 diabetes (Ozempic). It can help with both blood sugar control and weight loss. However, if you're already on diabetes medications, your physician will need to adjust your treatment plan to avoid low blood sugar.
Enhance Your Weight Loss Results
Many of our weight loss patients combine semaglutide with these complementary services for optimal results.
Ready to Start Semaglutide?
Book a free consultation to discuss whether semaglutide is right for you. We'll review your medical history, current medications, and weight loss goals.
Semaglutide Near You
Serving the DFW metroplex from our Fort Worth clinic. Easily accessible from these surrounding communities.
Southlake
Serving Southlake, Grapevine & Colleyville
Keller
Serving Keller, North Fort Worth & Watauga
Westlake
Serving Westlake, Trophy Club & Roanoke
Colleyville
Serving Colleyville, Bedford & Euless
Trophy Club
Serving Trophy Club, Roanoke & Argyle
Roanoke
Serving Roanoke, Northlake & Justin
Haslet
Serving Haslet, Alliance & North Fort Worth
Medical References & Guidelines
- Wilding, J. P. H., et al. (2021). Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine.
- Novo Nordisk A/S. (2021). Wegovy (semaglutide) injection Prescribing Information.
- Jensen, M. D., et al. (2014). 2013 AHA/ACC/TOS guideline for the management of overweight and obesity in adults. Journal of the American College of Cardiology.