Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition.
To be eligible for semaglutide treatment, you must have:
- A body mass index (BMI) of ≥30 kg/m2 (obesity)
or
- A BMI of ≥27 kg/m2 (overweight) and at least one weight-related condition such as:
- Hypertension
- Type 2 diabetes
- Dyslipidemia
- Obstructive sleep apnea
The exact BMI cutoff for semaglutide treatment depends on your location and insurance provider. For example, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in the UK recommends:
- BMI of ≥35 kg/m2 for people without comorbidities
- BMI of ≥30 kg/m2 for people with comorbidities such as hypertension or type 2 diabetes
In the US, most insurance providers require:
- BMI ≥30 kg/m2
- Or BMI ≥27 kg/m2 plus at least one weight-related condition
Contraindications and precautions:
Semaglutide has some contraindications and should be used with caution in certain patients:
- Contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2
- Use with caution in patients with diabetic retinopathy - semaglutide causes a rapid improvement in glucose control which can worsen retinopathy
- Use with caution in patients with severe renal impairment
If you are struggling with
obesity or
being overweight, the medical professionals at
Hormone Harmony Clinic can help create a customized weight loss plan for you. We provide compassionate, evidence-based obesity treatment including lifestyle modification, anti-obesity medications, vitamin injections and
hormone therapy.
Our programs are tailored to your unique medical history, preferences and goals. We partner with you on your weight loss journey to help you achieve long-lasting results.
I hope this overview on eligibility requirements for semaglutide has been helpful! Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions. Wishing you the best of luck on your health and weight loss journey!