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Is semaglutide safe for weight loss?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I need regarding weight loss injections. I came across an advertisement for compounded Semaglutide, which is significantly less expensive than the branded version. As a bride-to-be, I need to lose at least 60 pounds within the next four months. Despite my efforts at the gym and following various diets, I have only managed to lose 5 pounds in the past two months. My wedding dress no longer fits, and I am feeling quite anxious about it. I discovered an online pharmacy that offers these injections, but I would like to verify their safety. My current BMI is 38, and I am becoming increasingly desperate.

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Jain Tushar Pukharaj

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Tushar Jain is a Pulmonologist with extensive experience in diagnosing and managing respiratory conditions, including asthma, COPD, lung infections, and sleep-related breathing disorders. He also has clinical expertise in critical care, infectious diseases, allergy management, and internal medicine. With a patient-focused approach, Dr. Jain emphasizes accurate diagnosis, evidence-based treatment, and personalized care plans to improve breathing health and overall well-being. He regularly treats complex respiratory and critical-care cases and is committed to early intervention and preventive healthcare. Dr. Jain currently provides consultation and advanced lung-care services at his clinic, helping patients achieve better long-term respiratory health and quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Avoid using compounded Semaglutide (anti-diabetic drug) without comprehensive clinical assessment and medical oversight. This medication can lead to significant side effects, necessitating careful monitoring by a healthcare professional.

Safety Issues Associated with Compounded Semaglutide

Although compounded Semaglutide may offer cost savings, there are important safety issues to consider:

  1. Lack of FDA Approval: Compounded medications do not receive FDA ( food and drug administration) approval, raising concerns regarding their efficacy, safety, and quality assurance.

  2. Inconsistent Potency and Purity: The potency and purity of compounded medications can vary, potentially impacting their safety and effectiveness.

  3. Higher Risk of Adverse Reactions: The use of compounded medications may elevate the risk of adverse reactions, particularly if the ingredients or dosages are not meticulously regulated.

Sustainable Weight Loss Objectives: Aim for a weight loss of 1-2 pounds (0.5-1 kg) per week, or 4-6 kg (8.8-13.2 pounds) monthly, which is ideal. This pace is more likely to be both sustainable and healthy.

Exploring Alternative Weight Loss Strategies: Given your BMI and weight loss aspirations, it is crucial to consider safer and more effective alternatives, such as a proper diet under the guidance of a nutritionist and a workout regimen with a certified trainer.

I hope this information helps you.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At March 30, 2025
Reviewed At April 4, 2025

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Tushar Jain is a Pulmonologist with extensive experience in diagnosing and managing respiratory conditions, including asthma, COPD, lung infections, and sleep-related breathing disorders. He also has clinical expertise in critical care, infectious diseases, allergy management, and internal medicine. With a patient-focused approach, Dr. Jain emphasizes accurate diagnosis, evidence-based treatment, and personalized care plans to improve breathing health and overall well-being. He regularly treats complex respiratory and critical-care cases and is committed to early intervention and preventive healthcare. Dr. Jain currently provides consultation and advanced lung-care services at his clinic, helping patients achieve better long-term respiratory health and quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Tushar Jain is a Pulmonologist with extensive experience in diagnosing and managing respiratory conditions, including asthma, COPD, lung infections, and sleep-related breathing disorders. He also has clinical expertise in critical care, infectious diseases, allergy management, and internal medicine. With a patient-focused approach, Dr. Jain emphasizes accurate diagnosis, evidence-based treatment, and personalized care plans to improve breathing health and overall well-being. He regularly treats complex respiratory and critical-care cases and is committed to early intervention and preventive healthcare. Dr. Jain currently provides consultation and advanced lung-care services at his clinic, helping patients achieve better long-term respiratory health and quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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