Semaglutide presented by Dr Terri-Lynne South
The once-a-week injectable GLP-1 medication semaglutide is a hot topic. Although indicated for type 2 diabetes, it has potential for application in other cardiometabolic disease and for weight loss. Dual qualified as both a medical doctor and a dietitian, Dr Terri-Lynne South introduces us to semaglutide which is known in Australia as Ozempic (0.25/0.5/1mg) and, in the future, also as Wegovy (2.4mg).
GLP-1RAs medications have broad pharmacological effects throughout the body including in the digestive system, brain, liver, kidneys and distally in muscles. Increased beta cell function and insulin sensitivity, decreased gastric emptying, and reduced appetite are observed. The resulting clinically significant outcomes include reduced HbA1C and body weight, reduced blood pressure and improved lipid profile.
The mechanism for weight loss appears to occur primarily through reduced energy intake. There is potential for the medication to decrease physiological and hedonistic hunger, alongside slowed gastric emptying, to promote satiety. Significantly, weight loss occurs primarily as fat mass reduction from hepatic and muscles regions, promoting metabolic health.
Dr South offers practical clinical scenarios describing how semaglutide may have broad relevance as a tool alongside lifestyle change; not only in type 2 diabetes but for mechanical pain, cardiometabolic conditions, fertility, mental health and binge eating disorder.
While recent supply shortages, Tik Tok® trending and off-label prescribing is impacting its current availability; it is anticipated that semaglutide, and future variants, will have growing relevance for clinical practice in the years ahead.
Dr Terri-Lynne South has more than 25 years of experience in the health profession and is passionate about metabolic health with a focus on providing a holistic health service, that achieves positive outcomes anchored in evidence, innovation, and experience.
She sits on several advisory committees at the state and national level to ultimately help clients with diabetes, metabolic syndrome and other health conditions associated with living in a larger body.