Biophysical therapies for obesity
Dr Luigi De Michele - Internal medicine
Created on: 01-20-2014
Updated on: 11-15-2023
Edited by: Conor Lynch
What are some of the most effective biophysical therapies for obesity?
One of the most exciting biophysical therapies for obesity is semaglutide, an injectable medication that was recently approved by the FDA for weight management. Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist that targets receptors in the brain to reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness. Clinical trials have shown that semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss in individuals with obesity.
Another promising biophysical therapy for obesity is physical therapy. Physical therapy for obesity typically involves a combination of diet and exercise to help individuals lose weight and maintain their weight loss over time. This type of therapy has been found to be highly effective in reducing body weight and improving metabolic health.
Acupuncture is another biophysical therapy that has shown promise in the treatment of obesity. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of energy and promote healing. Studies have shown that acupuncture can lead to significant weight loss in individuals with obesity.
Massage therapy is another biophysical therapy that has been explored for the treatment of obesity. Massage therapy involves the manipulation of soft tissues to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Studies have shown that massage therapy can lead to significant reductions in body weight and waist circumference in individuals with obesity.
What are the side effects of semaglutide?
Semaglutide can, unfortunately, cause some unwanted side effects. Some of the most common side effects of semaglutide include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and constipation. Other side effects that may occur less frequently include:
- anxiety
- blurred vision
- chills
- confusion
- cough
- darkened urine
- depression
- difficulty swallowing
- dizziness
- fast heartbeat
- fever
- headache
- increased hunger
- indigestion
- loss of appetite
- nervousness
- nightmares
- seizures
- skin rash
- slurred speech
- tightness in the chest
- trouble breathing
- unusual tiredness or weakness
- vomiting
- heartburn
How long does it take to start seeing the effect of semaglutide in the body?
It depends on each individual, but the average time it takes to see the full effect of semaglutide in the body can range anywhere between two and 12 weeks.