Semaglutide Singapore: For Weight Loss & Type 2 Diabetes Management

Understanding Digestion and Blood Sugar Regulation

Before exploring how semaglutide works, it is helpful to understand the body's natural processes for digestion and blood sugar control.

When we consume carbohydrates, they are broken down into glucose, the primary source of energy for our cells. In response, the pancreas produces insulin, a hormone that helps transport glucose from the bloodstream into the cells.

Conversely, if blood sugar drops too low, another hormone named glucagon signals the liver to release its stored glucose. In individuals with type 2 diabetes, this system is impaired; the body might resist insulin's effects or the liver might release too much glucose, leading to high blood sugar.

The speed at which the stomach empties its contents, known as gastric emptying, also affects appetite and blood sugar. Slower emptying helps stabilise glucose levels and prolongs the feeling of fullness, which can assist in managing food intake.

Semaglutide Mechanism of Action: How Does It Work?

Semaglutide works in several complementary ways to help manage body weight and regulate blood sugar:

1. Promotes Insulin Production – Signals the pancreas to release more insulin when blood sugar rises after a meal, helping cells use glucose for energy more effectively.
2. Limits Glucagon Release – Prevents the liver from making and releasing too much sugar into the bloodstream by reducing the secretion of a hormone called glucagon.
3. Makes You Feel Fuller – Slows down how quickly your stomach empties after you eat, which helps you feel satisfied for a longer period and can lead to a lower calorie intake.
4. Reduces Hunger Signals – Acts on the appetite centres in the brain to help lower feelings of hunger and reduce cravings for food.

Beyond these effects, clinical research shows that semaglutide can also provide cardiovascular benefits, lowering the risk of a heart attack or stroke in people who have both obesity and existing heart disease.

Types of Semaglutide

In Singapore, semaglutide is available in several different formulations, each tailored to specific therapeutic purposes and individual preferences.

These allow doctors to choose the most appropriate option for either managing type 2 diabetes or focusing on weight loss, with choices between injectable and oral administration.

Potential Semaglutide Side Effects

Treatment with semaglutide can cause side effects, although many are mild and tend to resolve as your body adapts to the medication.

The most frequently reported issues are related to the digestive system, but other temporary effects can also occur, particularly at the beginning of treatment.

Commonly observed side effects may include:

• Digestive problems such as nausea, bloating, stomach pain, diarrhoea, or constipation
• Localised reactions at the injection site, like redness or swelling
• A general feeling of fatigue or weakness
• A minor increase in the resting heart rate
• Episodes of dizziness

It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any severe or persistent symptoms, including intense abdominal pain, signs of dehydration, or symptoms that could indicate gallbladder or pancreas problems.

Always discuss any side effects with your doctor for proper management.

Who Might Semaglutide Not Be Suitable For?

Semaglutide is not a suitable treatment for every individual, and your doctor will carefully assess your health history before prescribing it.

Certain pre-existing conditions or medical histories can make the use of this medication unsafe, such as:

• A personal or family history of specific thyroid cancers, such as medullary thyroid carcinoma, or an endocrine disorder known as multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), due to a potential risk associated with GLP-1 RAs.
• Type 1 diabetes, because semaglutide's mechanism requires the body to have some capacity to produce its own insulin, which is not the case in type 1 diabetes.
• Certain severe gastrointestinal diseases, as the medication's effect of slowing down digestion could potentially aggravate existing symptoms.

Where Can I Find Semaglutide in Singapore?

In Singapore, semaglutide can only be obtained with a valid prescription from a qualified medical doctor. This medication is not available for purchase over the counter.

To determine if semaglutide is an appropriate option for your weight loss or diabetes management goals, you must undergo a medical consultation. During this appointment, a doctor will evaluate your overall health, discuss the potential advantages and risks of the treatment, and confirm your suitability.

If a prescription is provided, ongoing follow-up appointments are essential to track your progress, manage any side effects, and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.