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Starting a new weight management journey can be both exciting and daunting. If you’re taking semaglutide, you’re probably eager to see those first signs of progress—a smaller number on the scale, clothes fitting differently, or simply feeling lighter. It’s completely natural to wonder, "When will I start seeing results? Semaglutide, a medication designed to support weight loss, works by helping control appetite and regulating blood sugar, which over time can lead to gradual, steady weight loss. However, the timeline for seeing results varies from person to person. Factors like metabolism, adherence to the medication schedule, lifestyle choices, and even unique genetic traits can all play a role in how quickly the pounds start to drop.
While it can be tough to stay motivated without immediate results, understanding the typical timeline can offer reassurance and help you set realistic expectations. Remember, the weight loss journey is often a marathon, not a sprint. With patience, consistency, and the right guidance, semaglutide can support your goals one step at a time, helping you find a healthier, more balanced path forward.
Factors Affecting Weight Loss Timeline
Individual Variations
The speed at which semaglutide produces noticeable results can vary due to individual differences:
- Metabolism: A person’s metabolic rate can affect weight loss speed. Those with a higher metabolism may see quicker progress, while others may require more time. Studies on GLP-1 medications have shown that individuals with faster metabolism tend to lose weight faster compared to those with slower metabolic rates.
- Body Composition: Individuals with more muscle mass tend to burn more calories at rest, potentially accelerating weight loss. Conversely, those with a higher body fat percentage may experience slower progress initially.
- Genetic Factors: Genetic differences affect how the body responds to medications, including GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide. Some studies have shown that certain genetic profiles can influence how well individuals respond to GLP-1 agonists, with certain genetic variations leading to faster results.
Dosage and Adherence
- Following the Prescribed Dosage: Semaglutide is typically prescribed in gradually increasing doses to allow the body to adapt. This titration process is essential for minimising side effects and maximising weight loss. Missing doses or starting with a higher-than-recommended dose can lead to side effects or reduce the effectiveness of the medication. Clinical trials indicate that individuals who adhere to the full dosing schedule experience more consistent and sustained weight loss.
- Consistency in Medication Use: One of the most important factors in achieving results with semaglutide is consistency. Regular weekly injections are crucial. Missing doses can delay results and make it harder to see steady progress. The medication is typically administered as a weekly injection, and sticking to this schedule is crucial for the medication to work effectively. Regular weekly doses help maintain steady levels of the drug in your body, ensuring optimal impact on appetite regulation and metabolic processes.
Lifestyle Factors
While semaglutide plays a significant role in helping individuals manage weight and improve metabolic health, the results it delivers are greatly influenced by lifestyle factors. The medication is most effective when combined with healthy habits, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress management. These factors not only enhance the medication's impact but also contribute to overall well-being. Making positive lifestyle changes can accelerate progress, help maintain results, and improve long-term health outcomes. Lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in the speed and extent of weight loss:
- Diet: A balanced, low-calorie diet can enhance the effects of semaglutide, helping individuals see results faster. Studies have shown that those who combine GLP-1 medications with a nutritious, reduced-calorie diet lose about 5-10% more weight than those who rely solely on medication.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity supports weight loss and helps maintain muscle mass, which is critical for a healthy metabolism.
- Stress Management: High stress can increase cortisol levels, which may slow weight loss or even lead to weight gain. Practising stress management techniques like mindfulness or yoga can support your weight loss goals.
Medical Conditions
- Underlying Health Issues: Conditions like hypothyroidism, insulin resistance, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can affect weight loss. These conditions may require a longer duration before seeing results with semaglutide. A 2023 study found that individuals with insulin resistance experienced slower initial weight loss with GLP-1 agonists, though results improved with continued use and lifestyle adjustments.
Typical Weight Loss Timeline
Initial Weeks
- Plateaus or Slight Weight Gain: In the first few weeks, some users may experience minimal weight loss or even slight weight gain. This phase is common as the body adapts to semaglutide and begins to respond to its appetite-suppressing effects.
- Adapting to Side Effects: Many users experience mild side effects such as nausea, which can affect diet and temporarily impact weight changes. In clinical trials, participants reported that noticeable weight loss often begins by the fourth week, though initial results vary.
Months 2 to 4
- Significant Weight Loss: This period is when most users start seeing more noticeable weight loss as their bodies adapt to the medication. Weight loss often accelerates during these months, provided users adhere to their prescribed dose and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Clinical studies suggest that by month three, users can lose about 5-10% of their starting body weight, especially when combining semaglutide with a balanced diet and exercise.
Ongoing Progress
- Sustained Weight Loss: After the initial months, weight loss usually continues, though it may slow down as the body adjusts to the new weight and metabolic state. This period emphasises the importance of consistency and lifestyle adherence to sustain progress.
- Maintaining Healthy Habits: Staying active, eating well, and practising stress management become crucial for ongoing weight management.
Tips for Maximising Weight Loss
- Patience and Persistence: Weight loss is a gradual process that requires time. Avoid getting discouraged if progress feels slow at first; consistency is key.
- Adhering to Medical Guidance: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on dosage and injection schedules closely for optimal results.
- Prioritising a Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and managing stress can maximise the benefits of semaglutide.
- Monitoring Progress: Track your weight, measurements, and other health markers regularly to see how your body is responding over time.
Consulting with a Healthcare Professional
- Seeking Guidance: Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider can help you stay on track and address any questions or challenges you may face.
- Personalised Support: Your provider can offer personalised advice and make adjustments to your dosage or treatment plan to support your progress.
Conclusion
Semaglutide is a powerful tool in the journey toward weight loss, but it requires patience, consistency, and commitment to a healthier lifestyle. Results may vary due to individual factors like metabolism, genetics, and adherence to the prescribed regimen. By following your healthcare provider’s guidance and incorporating healthy habits, you can achieve sustained weight loss with semaglutide. Working closely with your provider will ensure you’re on the best path to success for your unique needs.
If you are looking for personalised guidance, don’t hesitate to book a consultation with us at SheMed. We can help tailor a plan just for you!
1. How soon can I expect to see weight loss results with Semaglutide?
Some people start seeing changes within the first few weeks, though results vary. Most notice significant weight reduction by the 8 to 12-week mark, especially when they follow a healthy diet and regular exercise.
2. Does the starting dose affect how quickly I see results?
Yes, Semaglutide is often started at a lower dose to minimise side effects, which may delay immediate results. As doses increase over weeks, weight loss tends to become more noticeable.
3. Is weight loss gradual, or do I see a big drop initially?
Weight loss with Semaglutide is generally gradual. Many experience consistent, steady weight reduction rather than a sharp drop, which is more sustainable over time.
4. Can lifestyle factors like diet and exercise impact my results?
Absolutely. Following a balanced diet and regular physical activity can enhance Semaglutide’s effects, leading to more pronounced and sustainable weight loss results.
5. What should I do if I’m not seeing results after a few months?
If you’re not seeing the expected results after 12-16 weeks, discuss this with your healthcare provider. They might adjust your dose, review your lifestyle habits, or assess for any underlying factors affecting weight loss.
References
- Authors: Sweeney, M. M., & Barlow, J. W. Title: Semaglutide for Weight Loss: A Review of Clinical Trials Journal: Journal of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome Year: 2021 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8717485/
- Kushner, P., Cardell, B., & Rossi, A. (2023). Pharmacology and Mechanism of GLP-1 Agonists. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK603723/
- Authors: Astrup, A., Ludvik, B., Meincke, C., & Yildiz, B.Title: Efficacy and safety of oral semaglutide across subgroups in patients with obesity without diabetes:
- Journal: The Lancet Regional Health – Europe, Volume 34, 2024, Article 100857 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38996661/
- Gokul, P. R., Apperley, L., Parkinson, J., Clark, K., Lund, K., Owens, M., & Senniappan, S. (2024). Semaglutide, a long-acting GLP-1 analogue https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38402868/
- Authors: Kalra, S., & Kapoor, N. Title: Oral Semaglutide: Practical Considerations for Clinical Use in Diabetes Management Journal: Diabetes Therapy Year: 2022 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9174361/
- Kushner, R. F., & Kahan, S. (2022). Once-weekly semaglutide for weight management: A clinical review. Journal of Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome, 31(2), 73-83.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9272494/
- Richelsen, B., & Karsdal, M. A. (2023). The role of lifestyle modification with second-generation anti-obesity. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 14, Article 1067551. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10748770/.
- Astrup, A., Ludvik, B., Meincke, C., & Yildiz, B. (2024). Efficacy and safety of oral semaglutide across subgroups in patients with obesity without diabetes– Europe, 34, Article 100857. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38996661/
- Davis, J. R., & Pasker, R. L. (2015). Thyroid disorders and polycystic ovary syndrome: An emerging relationship. Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4287775/
- Klempel, M. C., & Glickman, E. L. (2020). The effect of semaglutide 2.4 mg once weekly on energy intake, appetite, control of eating, and gastric emptying https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33269530/
When new medical studies are released, they can feel full of numbers and complex terms. At SheMed, our role is to help you understand what they really mean for you, your health, and your future.
Recently, Novo Nordisk released the results of the STEER study, one of the most significant pieces of research yet on GLP-1 medicines like Wegovy. And the findings show something powerful: Wegovy is not only about weight loss, it’s also about heart health.
The Big Picture: What the STEER Study Looked At
The STEER study explored how GLP-1 medicines affect heart health in people living with Overweight or Obesity and established cardiovascular disease (but without diabetes).
Researchers compared Wegovy (Semaglutide 2.4mg) with Tirzepatide (Mounjaro). They focused on the risk of serious heart problems, what doctors call “major adverse cardiovascular events” (MACE). These include:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Death from heart disease
What They Found
The results were striking:
- For people who stayed on treatment without big gaps, Wegovy reduced the risk of heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death by 57% more than Mounjaro.
- When looking at all treated people, even those with breaks in care Wegovy still showed a 29% reduction in these serious events overall.
In short, Wegovy is not only helping people lose weight, it is also showing clear cardiovascular protection, especially when used consistently.
Why This Matters for You
We’ve always known GLP-1 medicines are powerful tools for weight loss, but the STEER study highlights something even bigger: they can also protect your heart. For anyone living with Obesity and cardiovascular disease, this is game-changing.
It also reinforces an important truth - long-term commitment matters most. The people who saw the greatest benefits were those who stayed consistent with their medication. That’s why at SheMed, we design every part of our programme to keep you supported, motivated, and engaged for the long run.
The SheMed Difference: Seeing the Bigger Picture
Medication is only one part of your health journey. At SheMed, we combine Wegovy with wraparound care:
- Regular blood tests to track key markers like cholesterol, blood sugar, and liver health.
- Weekly check-ins and app reminders to help you stay on track.
- Education and content designed specifically for women, covering sleep, hormones, activity, and nutrition.
- Proactive Side effect care and support to keep you comfortable and supported as your body adjusts.
This holistic approach matters because weight loss is just one marker of progress. By running blood tests before starting the programme, at 6 months, and 12 months, we can show you the deeper changes happening inside your body, improvements in cholesterol, blood sugar, and overall metabolic health.
It means you’ll see the true value of GLP-1s, not just in how you look or feel, but in the measurable ways your health is improving and your risks are reducing.
Why Wegovy Through SheMed Makes Sense
At SheMed, we’ve worked hard to make Wegovy accessible and affordable. With static, transparent pricing across doses, our members know exactly what they’re paying. That means no hidden surprises and no price hikes as you move up through titration.
When you combine that cost benefit with the evidence from STEER that Wegovy offers not just weight loss but cardiovascular protection the case for choosing Wegovy through SheMed becomes even stronger.
You’re not just investing in weight management; you’re investing in heart health, future health, and a programme designed to keep you safe and supported every step of the way.
The Future of Health With SheMed
The STEER study is a reminder that the story of GLP-1s is still unfolding and it’s about so much more than weight loss. These medicines are changing how we think about obesity, cardiovascular health, and long-term wellbeing.
At SheMed, we’ll continue to keep you informed as new research emerges, but more importantly, we’ll keep showing you the bigger picture through your own results. With every blood test, every milestone, and every step forward, you’ll see how far you’ve come not just in weight, but in health.
Because at SheMed, you’re not just losing weight. You’re gaining health, protecting your future, and building the strongest version of you.
Wegovy has quickly become a key treatment option in obesity management, particularly for adults living with excess weight and health conditions linked to obesity.
With recent price increases for Mounjaro®, another GLP-1 medication, many patients and healthcare providers are now turning to Wegovy as a strong alternative.
Clinical research shows that Wegovy can deliver significant weight loss results, often comparable to those seen with Mounjaro, making it one of the most effective options currently available.
Recent news and clinical trial data reveal that higher doses of Wegovy specifically at 7.2 mg weekly, have led to average weight loss of around 21% in adults with obesity, with approximately one-third of participants achieving a weight loss of 25% or more over 72 weeks. This is notably greater than the 15% average weight loss seen at the standard 2.4 mg dose.
Latest Clinical Data on Higher Doses
The 2025 STEP UP phase 3b trial evaluated semaglutide at both 7.2 mg and 2.4 mg weekly doses versus placebo in people with obesity who did not have diabetes. The results indicated a clear dose-response effect:
- Mean weight loss was 21% at 7.2 mg, compared to 17.5% at 2.4 mg, and much lower with placebo.
- Specifically, 51% of those on 7.2 mg lost at least 20% of their body weight, and 33% achieved a reduction of 25% or more.
- For 2.4 mg, 35% lost 20% or more, and 17% achieved 25% or greater weight loss.
Regulatory and Safety Considerations
- Novo Nordisk has announced plans to seek regulatory approval for the higher 7.2 mg dose in the EU and other regions in late 2025.
- Safety and tolerability of the 7.2 mg weekly dose were consistent with the known profile of semaglutide, with gastrointestinal side effects remaining most common, except for a low discontinuation rate for adverse effects (about 3%).
- These findings extend the potential of Wegovy for people requiring greater degrees of weight loss, emphasising the dose-dependent effect of semaglutide GLP-1 therapy.
Comparing New findings with Mounjaro
At higher doses (7.2 mg), Wegovy has demonstrated weight loss outcomes that closely mirror those achieved with Mounjaro. Clinical data show an average 21% reduction in body weight over 72 weeks with Wegovy, with around half of patients reaching at least 20% weight loss. By comparison, Mounjaro studies report average reductions of up to 22–23% at higher doses over a similar treatment duration. While Wegovy’s 7.2 mg dose remains under regulatory review and is not yet standard practice, these findings highlight that patients considering a switch may be able to achieve results that are highly comparable to those seen with Mounjaro, offering another strong option in pharmacological obesity management.
Head-to-head style snapshot (72-week outcomes)
In conclusion, if you are considering switching from Mounjaro to Wegovy, now is an excellent opportunity. Wegovy offers a highly effective alternative for weight management with similar clinical results, and - importantly - comes at a considerably lower price, especially as Mounjaro prices are set to rise sharply in the UK from September 2025. Choosing Wegovy can help maintain your weight loss goals while making your treatment more affordable.
If you have any questions or need personalised advice about making the switch, please do not hesitate to contact the Shemed support team at support@shemed.com.
References
- ClinicalTrials.gov. (2024, December 12). A research study to see how semaglutide helps people with excess weight, lose weight (STEP UP) (NCT05646706). U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05646706
- Wilding, J. P. H., Batterham, R. L., Calanna, S., Davies, M., Van Gaal, L. F., Lingvay, I., McGowan, B. M., Rosenstock, J., Tran, M. T., Wadden, T. A., Wharton, S., Yokote, K., Zeuthen, N., Kushner, R. F., & STEP 1 Study Group. (2021). Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine, 384(11), 989–1002. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
- Jastreboff, A. M., Aronne, L. J., Ahmad, N. N., Wharton, S., Connery, L., Alves, B., Kiyosue, A., Zhang, S., Liu, B., Bunck, M. C., & Wadden, T. A. (2022). Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine, 387(3), 205–216. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038
- American Diabetes Association (ADA). (2025, June). STEP UP trial: Semaglutide 7.2 mg in adults with obesity without type 2 diabetes [Conference presentation]. ADA 85th Scientific Sessions, Chicago, IL. Retrieved from https://diabetesjournals.org/ (poster abstract ePoster 446-P).
- Novo Nordisk. (2025, June 9). Semaglutide 7.2 mg shows ~21% weight loss at 72 weeks in STEP UP trial [Press release]. Retrieved from https://www.novonordisk.com/