Semaglutide: What It Is, Who It's For, and How It Works for Weight Loss and Diabetes

When you hear semaglutide, a once-weekly injectable medication approved for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. Also known as Ozempic for diabetes and Wegovy for weight loss, it works by mimicking a hormone your body naturally makes to control appetite and blood sugar. This isn’t just another pill—it’s one of the most studied and effective tools doctors now use to help people lose weight and manage diabetes at the same time.

People often confuse semaglutide with older diabetes drugs like metformin, but the difference is clear: metformin helps your body use insulin better, while semaglutide tells your brain you’re full and slows down digestion. That’s why users often lose weight without trying. It’s not magic, but it’s close. Studies show people using semaglutide for weight loss dropped 15% or more of their body weight over a year—something most diets can’t touch. And if you have type 2 diabetes, it lowers blood sugar better than many other drugs while also protecting your heart and kidneys. That’s why it’s become the go-to option for doctors who want more than just a quick fix.

But it’s not for everyone. You need a diagnosis of obesity or type 2 diabetes to qualify, and insurance companies like Express Scripts often require prior authorization before they’ll cover it. Some people can’t use it because of a personal or family history of thyroid cancer, or if they’ve had pancreatitis. And while side effects like nausea or stomach upset are common at first, most people adjust over time. The real question isn’t whether it works—it’s whether it works for you. That’s why the posts below cover everything from how to get approved through Hers Health, what insurance rules to expect, and what to do if your claim gets denied. You’ll also find comparisons with other weight loss medications, real stories from people who’ve used it, and what happens when you stop. This isn’t a marketing page—it’s a practical guide built from real patient experiences and medical data.