Does Semaglutide lose effectiveness over time?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been using Ozempic for almost a year now. I started great, but in the last six months, there has been no improvement. My sugars are creeping up again, fasting blood sugar now around 180, and post-meals even 220 plus. I am a 55-year-old male, and I also take Metformin. I initially lost some weight, but that has plateaued, too. I'm not sure if my body has just gotten used to it or if I need a higher dose. Is it common for Semaglutide to stop working like this? Should I switch to something else or add another medicine? Also wondering if lifestyle is affecting this. I try to eat clean, but I work night shifts, so meals are irregular. Can you suggest what I should ask my endocrinologist before making any switch? Are there alternatives that are longer-acting or more effective?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

It is uncommon for Ozempic to stop working. Due to the following reasons, Ozempic might be a little effective.

Plateau effect.
Submaximal dose.
Progression of diabetes mellitus (DM).
Irregular meals.
Night shifts.

The following things you can discuss with your endocrinologist about adding medication and further planning.

Medication review.
Lab work.
Impact of shifts.

The alternatives to Semaglutide include:

Tirzepatide
High-dose Semaglutide.
Basal Insulin.
SGLT2 inhibitors (Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors).

Kindly consult a specialist doctor, talk with them, and take medications with their consent.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.