A recent Lancet Study found that higher dose of semaglutide, an anti-diabetic medication used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and an anti-obesity medication used for long-term weight loss management, could aid better in weight management among the elderly, including those who are living with type 2 diabetes. The findings, published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, suggest that a higher weekly dose of the drug semaglutide (7.2 mg) is safe and more effective for weight loss than the currently approved dose (2.4 mg).What Did The Lancet Study Find Out About Dosage And Weight Loss? In adults who do not have diabetes, a 7.2 mg weekly dose of semaglutide led to a significant average weight loss of almost 19%. This is a notable improvement over the 16% weight loss seen with the standard 2.4 mg dose and a 4% loss in the placebo group (who received a dummy treatment). Almost half of the participants on the higher dose lost 20% or more of their body weight, with about one-third losing at least 25%. These participants also saw improvements in their waist circumference, blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, which are all important for reducing health risks related to obesity. For adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes, the 7.2 mg dose also showed better results. These individuals experienced an average weight loss of 13%, compared to 10% with the 2.4 mg dose and 3.9% with the placebo. The higher dose also led to significant reductions in blood sugar levels and waist size. Is It Safe To Take More Semaglutide? The study found that the higher dose of semaglutide was safe and well-tolerated overall. The most common side effects were gastrointestinal issues, like nausea and diarrhea, and some tingling sensations. However, most of these side effects were manageable, resolved on their own over time, and did not cause people to drop out of the trial. The researchers did not find any increase in serious health problems or severe drops in blood sugar (hypoglycemia) with the higher dose. Researchers believe this higher dose could help more people achieve their health goals and reduce the worldwide burden of obesity. "The higher dose could help more people reach their health goals and reduce the burden of obesity-related complications worldwide," said the team, including those from the University of Porto. The team also noted that more research is needed to fully understand the long-term benefits and risks.
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