Efficacy of Semaglutide for Weight Management in Individuals with Obesity but without Diabetes: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity is a chronic disease with numerous comorbidities. Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, has shown significant weight loss effects in diabetic patients. This review focuses on its efficacy specifically in the non-diabetic obese population.

Methods: We searched for placebo-controlled RCTs evaluating once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide for weight management in adults with a BMI ≥30 kg/m² (or ≥27 with comorbidities) without diabetes. The primary outcome was the percentage change in body weight.

Results: The meta-analysis of four large RCTs demonstrated that treatment with semaglutide resulted in a mean body weight reduction of approximately 15-17% from baseline, compared to a 2-3% reduction with placebo. Significant improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors were also observed.

Discussion: Semaglutide induces weight loss through central effects on appetite and satiety. Its efficacy is substantially greater than previously available anti-obesity medications, marking a new era in the pharmacological management of obesity.

Conclusion: Semaglutide is a highly effective pharmacological agent for inducing significant and sustained weight loss in obese individuals.