Semaglutide for treating overweight and obesity

Semaglutide is in clinical development for the treatment of overweight and obesity in adults. Obesity is a chronic disease and global public health challenge, and the prevalence of obesity is rising in the UK. Obesity increases the risk of developing a range of health conditions such as stroke, hypertension and type 2 diabetes. Obesity can also affect the person’s quality of life and lead to psychological problems, such as depression and low self-esteem. Recommendations for treatment include lifestyle changes such as increased exercise, healthy diet and a net calorie deficit, along with help through counselling and medication. Currently existing drug treatments often involve injections as the primary route of administration. Concerns with injection, including pain and fear, have been noted as barriers to administering effective therapies for overweight and obesity, hence the need for more convenient therapy options.