Real Results: What Clinical Studies Show About Semaglutide Weight Loss
Table of Contents
The STEP Trial Program
Semaglutide's effectiveness for weight loss has been established through the landmark STEP (Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People with obesity) clinical trial program. This series of five major studies involved over 4,500 participants.
STEP 1: The Landmark Study
Study Details:
- • 1,961 participants with obesity or overweight
- • 68 weeks of treatment
- • Average starting BMI: 38
Key Results:
- • Average weight loss: 14.9% (compared to 2.4% with placebo)
- • 86.4% of participants lost at least 5% of body weight
- • 69.1% lost at least 10%
- • 50.5% lost at least 15%
- • 32% lost at least 20%
STEP 2: Type 2 Diabetes
This study examined semaglutide's effectiveness in people with type 2 diabetes.
Results:
- • 1,210 participants with type 2 diabetes and obesity
- • Average weight loss: 9.6% with 2.4mg dose
- • 68.8% achieved at least 5% weight loss
- • Significant improvements in blood sugar control
STEP 3: Behavioral Therapy
Results:
- • Average weight loss: 16.0% at 68 weeks
- • 86.6% lost at least 5%
- • 75.3% lost at least 10%
- • 55.8% lost at least 15%
STEP 4: Weight Maintenance
Continued Semaglutide:
- • Lost an additional 7.9%
- • Total weight loss: 17.4%
Switched to Placebo:
- • Regained 6.9%
- • Net weight loss: only 5.6%
STEP 5: Long-Term Results
Two-Year Results:
- • 304 participants followed for 104 weeks
- • Average weight loss: 15.2% (sustained)
- • Weight loss plateau typically reached by week 60
- • No new safety concerns with long-term use
Health Improvements Beyond Weight Loss
Cardiovascular Improvements
- • Blood pressure reduction: average 6.2 mmHg systolic
- • Improved lipid profile
- • Reduced inflammatory markers
Metabolic Benefits
- • Improved insulin sensitivity
- • Reduced risk of progression to type 2 diabetes
- • Lower fasting glucose levels
The SELECT Trial
Major Findings:
- • 17,604 participants with cardiovascular disease
- • 20% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events
- • 15% reduction in cardiovascular death
- • 28% reduction in non-fatal heart attack
- • Average weight loss: 9.4%
What This Means for You
- Expect significant weight loss: Most people lose 10-15% of body weight
- Results take time: Peak weight loss typically occurs around 60-68 weeks
- Continued treatment is necessary: Stopping typically leads to weight regain
- Health benefits beyond weight loss: Improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, and cardiovascular health
Note on Clinical Trials
Clinical trial participants typically receive closer medical supervision and more comprehensive lifestyle support. Your individual results may vary, but the trial data provides a reliable indication of semaglutide's potential.
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Our team of healthcare professionals specializes in weight management and metabolic health, providing evidence-based information to help you make informed decisions about your health journey.