From the FDA Drug Label
The mean changes from baseline to week 30 were -1.2 kg, -3.8 kg and -4.7 kg in the placebo, OZEMPIC 0.5 mg, and OZEMPIC 1 mg arms, respectively. The mean changes from baseline to week 56 were -4.2 kg, -5.5 kg, and -1.7 kg for the OZEMPIC 0.5 mg, OZEMPIC 1 mg, and sitagliptin arms, respectively. The mean changes from baseline to week 30 were -3.2 kg, -4.7 kg and 0.9 kg in the OZEMPIC 0.5 mg, OZEMPIC 1 mg, and insulin glargine arms, respectively. The mean changes from baseline to week 40 were -5.6 kg and -6.4 kg in the OZEMPIC 1 mg and OZEMPIC 2 mg arms, respectively. The mean changes from baseline to week 30 were -1.2 kg, -3.5 kg, and -6 kg in the placebo, OZEMPIC 0.5 mg, and OZEMPIC 1 mg arms, respectively.
The weekly weight loss target for Semaglutide (Ozempic) can be calculated based on the mean weight changes over the study periods.
- For a 30-week study, the mean weight loss was -3.8 kg for OZEMPIC 0.5 mg and -4.7 kg for OZEMPIC 1 mg.
- For a 56-week study, the mean weight loss was -4.2 kg for OZEMPIC 0.5 mg and -5.5 kg for OZEMPIC 1 mg.
- For a 40-week study, the mean weight loss was -5.6 kg for OZEMPIC 1 mg and -6.4 kg for OZEMPIC 2 mg. To calculate the weekly weight loss, we divide the total weight loss by the number of weeks.
- For OZEMPIC 0.5 mg over 30 weeks: -3.8 kg / 30 weeks = -0.1267 kg/week
- For OZEMPIC 1 mg over 30 weeks: -4.7 kg / 30 weeks = -0.1567 kg/week
- For OZEMPIC 0.5 mg over 56 weeks: -4.2 kg / 56 weeks = -0.075 kg/week
- For OZEMPIC 1 mg over 56 weeks: -5.5 kg / 56 weeks = -0.0982 kg/week
- For OZEMPIC 1 mg over 40 weeks: -5.6 kg / 40 weeks = -0.14 kg/week
- For OZEMPIC 2 mg over 40 weeks: -6.4 kg / 40 weeks = -0.16 kg/week 1 1
From the Research
The expected weekly weight loss target for Semaglutide (Ozempic) is approximately 1-2% of initial body weight per week, which translates to around 2-4 pounds per week for a 200-pound individual, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 2. This recommendation is based on the latest evidence from a systematic review of 10 high-quality studies, including 9 randomized control trials and a retrospective cohort study, which analyzed the efficacy of semaglutide in a non-diabetic population 2. The medication works by mimicking GLP-1, a hormone that regulates appetite and food intake, helping patients feel fuller longer and consume fewer calories. For optimal results, Ozempic should be used alongside lifestyle modifications including a reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity. Key points to consider when using semaglutide for weight loss include:
- Starting with a low dose (0.25 mg weekly for the first month) and gradually increasing to minimize gastrointestinal side effects
- Having realistic expectations, as weight loss is gradual and sustainable rather than rapid
- Continuing the medication for ongoing benefits, as weight loss may plateau at times
- Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider to assess progress and manage any side effects It's also important to note that semaglutide has demonstrated significant weight loss and improvements in cardiovascular risk factors and physical functioning in clinical trials, with a mean weight loss of approximately 15% of initial weight at 68 weeks 3.