Dubai has rapidly emerged as a leading hub for advanced medical weight management, with Wegovy (semaglutide) taking the lead among non-surgical options. Prominent endocrinologists and bariatric physicians in the city provide valuable insights into the workings of Wegovy and what patients can anticipate. These experts stress the importance of a holistic, medically supervised approach to ensure optimal outcomes and patient safety.
http://glamclinicdubai.ae/en/weight-loss/wegovy-injections/
Here's an overview of Wegovy from the perspective of Dubai's top semaglutide specialists:
Dr. [Name of Leading Endocrinologist/Bariatric Physician, e.g., Dr. Hecham Harb, Endocare Clinic; Dr. Jawad Bashir, King's College Hospital Dubai]: Explaining Wegovy and its impact on weight loss.
"Wegovy represents a significant advancement in weight loss treatment, containing the active ingredient semaglutide. As a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, it mimics a crucial hormone in the body involved in appetite control and metabolism. Wegovy's distinction from its lower-dose form, Ozempic, lies in its specific approval and higher dosage for chronic weight management.
Key mechanisms of Wegovy include:
- Appetite Suppression: By acting on the brain's appetite centers, Wegovy substantially reduces hunger and cravings, leading to decreased 'food noise.'
- Increased Satiety: Wegovy slows down stomach emptying, promoting a feeling of fullness after meals and aiding in consuming fewer calories.
- Metabolic Benefits: Aside from weight loss, Wegovy also offers positive effects on blood sugar regulation, benefiting individuals with prediabetes or Type 2 Diabetes."
Dr. [Name of another expert, e.g., Dr. Venkata Katreddy, American Hospital Dubai; Dr. Fuad AlSaraj, Mediclinic City Hospital]: Identifying ideal candidates for Wegovy within Dubai's diverse population.
"A comprehensive evaluation is conducted to determine suitability for Wegovy. Ideal candidates are adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher (obesity) or a BMI of 27 kg/m² or higher (overweight) with at least one weight-related comorbidity. Adolescents aged 12 and above meeting specific BMI and weight criteria are also considered.
It's essential to recognize that Wegovy is a medical treatment for a chronic condition, not a cosmetic solution. Priority is given to individuals who have struggled with traditional weight loss methods and are dedicated to incorporating lifestyle changes alongside the medication."
Dr. [Name of a third expert, e.g., Dr. Andrew Jenkinson, Bariatric Surgeon & Expert in Medical Weight Loss]: Setting realistic weight loss expectations and supporting patients in achieving them at Dubai clinics.
"Patients using Wegovy, in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, can anticipate significant and clinically meaningful weight loss. Clinical trials have demonstrated an average weight reduction of approximately 15-17% of initial body weight over 68 weeks, leading to notable health enhancements.
In Dubai, our approach is multidisciplinary, encompassing:
- Personalized Diet Plans: Collaboration with experienced dietitians to devise sustainable, culturally suitable meal plans.
- Exercise Guidance: Tailored advice from exercise specialists to safely incorporate physical activity into daily routines.
- Behavioral Support: Addressing psychological aspects of eating and weight management.
- Close Medical Monitoring: Regular follow-ups are crucial for dose adjustments, progress monitoring, side effect management, and overall patient well-being. Patients are empowered with knowledge and tools for safe self-administration of the weekly injection."
Dr. [Name of a fourth expert, e.g., Dr. Jaber Alansari, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital]: Addressing common side effects and ensuring patient comfort and safety throughout treatment.
"Patient safety and comfort are paramount considerations. The most frequent side effects of Wegovy are gastrointestinal, including mild to moderate symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. These effects are typically more noticeable during the initial treatment phase or dose escalation.
To mitigate these effects, we adopt a gradual dose titration approach. Starting with a minimal dose and gradually increasing it over 16 weeks allows the body to adapt. Patients receive guidance on dietary adjustments, such as consuming smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding certain foods, to help manage side effects.
While less common, we educate patients about potential serious side effects like pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, or vision changes (for diabetics) and stress the importance of promptly reporting any unusual or severe symptoms. Our clinics maintain stringent protocols for monitoring and addressing these concerns, ensuring timely and appropriate care."
Dr. [Name of first expert again]: Underscoring the significance of a medically supervised program for Wegovy treatment in Dubai.
"Obtaining or using Wegovy without proper medical oversight poses significant risks. Obesity is a complex chronic condition requiring a nuanced understanding of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. A qualified physician in Dubai will:
- Accurately Diagnose