Body Contouring – Magic pen

Weight management is evolving rapidly with the rise of GLP-1-based injectables—powerful tools that go beyond dieting. While Saxenda® (Liraglutide) has long been a popular choice, newer medications like Wegovy®, Ozempic®, and the groundbreaking Mounjaro® (Tirzepatide)—now officially licensed in Thailand—are reshaping the future of non-surgical body contouring.

Introduction to Saxenda® (Liraglutide)

Saxenda®, also known as Liraglutide, is gaining popularity as a non-surgical weight loss option, approved by the FDA in the United States and Thailand. Offered by Siam Clinic Phuket, this “Magic Pen” injectable drug is designed for individuals aiming to lose 5-10% of their original weight within a span of 12 weeks to 3 months.

Meet the GLP-1 Agonists

Saxenda®, Wegovy®, Ozempic®, and Mounjaro™ are all part of a drug class called GLP-1 receptor agonists—medications that mimic a natural hormone produced in the gut called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). This hormone regulates blood sugar, slows gastric emptying, reduces hunger, and increases feelings of fullness, making it a valuable tool in weight loss and type 2 diabetes management.

Mounjaro™ (tirzepatide) goes one step further by acting on an additional hormone, GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), potentially amplifying weight loss benefits.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of Saxenda® involves mimicking the body’s natural hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). This hormone, released from the gut after meals, plays a crucial role in signaling the brain to feel full, thereby reducing hunger and subsequent food intake. Additionally, Saxenda® contributes to lowering blood sugar levels and slowing down stomach movements, factors that further aid in weight management.

Eligibility and Supervised Use

Saxenda® is particularly recommended for individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) exceeding 30 kg/m², or for those with a BMI over 27 kg/m² accompanied by chronic conditions such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or hyperlipidemia. It is crucial that Saxenda® be used under the supervision of a physician, as self-administration could be ineffective and potentially harmful.

Administration Guidelines

Example

Storage and Handling

For storage, Saxenda® pens should be kept in a refrigerator at a temperature of 2-8 degrees Celsius and should not be frozen. After the first use, the drug remains effective for up to one month.

Research Findings on Saxenda®, Wegovy®, Ozempic®, and Mounjaro® for Weight Loss

In recent years, a growing body of research has solidified the role of GLP-1 receptor agonists in effective weight loss treatments. Each of these medications—Saxenda®, Wegovy®, Ozempic®, and Mounjaro®—has undergone extensive clinical trials to evaluate both safety and efficacy. Below is a detailed overview of the most compelling findings

Saxenda® (Liraglutide): Proven for Moderate Weight Loss

Saxenda®, one of the earliest GLP-1 agonists approved for obesity treatment, was evaluated in the SCALE Obesity and Prediabetes trial, which followed 3,713 participants over 56 weeks.

Results showed:

• Approximately 60% of participants lost at least 5% of their initial body weight (around 5.4 kg).

• Roughly 33% achieved weight loss of 10.5 kg or more.

• Around 6% reported a remarkable reduction of 20% from their starting weight.

Conclusion: Saxenda® is an effective solution for those seeking moderate weight loss, especially when combined with lifestyle changes like a calorie-restricted diet and regular physical activity. Its daily injection format suits individuals who prefer consistent routine and closer tracking.

These results are available for review at Saxenda’s official website.

Wegovy® (Semaglutide): High Efficacy with Weekly Convenience

Wegovy®, a more potent formulation of semaglutide, was assessed in the STEP 1 and STEP 4 trials, lasting 68 weeks. The trials included individuals with obesity or overweight conditions, with or without Type 2 diabetes.

Key findings include:

• Participants lost an average of 14.9% of their initial body weight.

• 86.4% successfully reduced more than 5% of their weight.

• Those who discontinued treatment regained two-thirds of the lost weight, underlining the importance of long-term adherence.

Conclusion: Wegovy® is highly effective for sustainable weight loss when used continuously. Its once-weekly injection makes it a more convenient choice for those with busy lifestyles.

Ozempic® (Semaglutide): Ideal for Type 2 Diabetes with Weight Benefits

Though primarily approved for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, Ozempic® has also shown substantial weight reduction benefits in off-label use. Clinical data from the SUSTAIN trials supports its dual-function efficacy.

Clinical results revealed:

• Average weight loss ranging from 10–12% of body weight.

• A consistent decrease in appetite and improved metabolic markers, such as blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

• Strong outcomes for patients managing both diabetes and obesity.

Conclusion: Ozempic® is a great fit for individuals with Type 2 diabetes who are also seeking moderate weight loss, offering a two-in-one therapeutic benefit.

Mounjaro® (Tirzepatide): The Most Promising Option to Date

Mounjaro®, known generically as tirzepatide, is a newer entrant in the market and has already made waves. Unlike the others, it is a dual agonist, targeting both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. The breakthrough came through the SURMOUNT-1 study, which tracked 2,539 participants for 72 weeks.

Findings were groundbreaking:

• Participants on the highest dose (15 mg) lost up to 22.5% of their body weight.

• 85% lost at least 5% of their starting weight.

• Some individuals experienced total reductions of over 23 kilograms.

Conclusion: Mounjaro® is currently the most powerful weight-loss medication available and is now officially approved in Thailand. It is ideal for patients who need significant, medically supervised weight reduction, especially those who haven’t responded to other treatments.

Summary: What the Research Tells Us

Long-term Efficacy and the Yoyo Effect of GLP-1 Agonists (Saxenda®, Wegovy®, Ozempic®, Mounjaro®)

One of the most important concerns in any weight loss journey is whether the results can be sustained—or whether the dreaded “yoyo effect” (regaining the lost weight) will occur. Clinical studies on GLP-1 receptor agonists, including Saxenda®, Wegovy®, Ozempic®, and Mounjaro®, provide valuable insight into their long-term efficacy:

Saxenda® (Liraglutide)

• A 3-year study showed:

  • 56% of participants reached and maintained target weight loss in year one

  • With continuous use, many maintained weight loss over 3 years

  • Success was highest when paired with lifestyle interventions (diet + exercise)

• Risk of weight regain increased if Saxenda® was discontinued without behavioral support

Wegovy® (Semaglutide)

• STEP 4 trial (68 weeks) showed:

  • Patients who continued Wegovy® maintained a 14.8% weight loss

  • Those who stopped the medication regained about two-thirds of the weight within 1 year

• Suggests Wegovy® is effective long-term, but requires ongoing treatment or strong lifestyle adherence

Ozempic® (Semaglutide) (used off-label for weight loss)

• In studies where Ozempic® was used weekly:

  • Weight loss was sustained as long as treatment continued

  • Discontinuation led to partial weight regain, though not as rapid as in untreated individuals

• Works well when paired with structured eating plans

Mounjaro® (Tirzepatide) – Strongest Long-Term Outcome to Date

• SURMOUNT-1 trial:

  • After 72 weeks, participants lost up to 22.5% of body weight

  • Even after treatment ended, those who adopted lifestyle changes were able to keep the weight off

• Its dual action on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors improves:

  • Insulin sensitivity

  • Appetite regulation

  • Metabolism regulation

• Early data suggests Mounjaro® has the lowest likelihood of rebound weight gain, especially when combined with follow-up care

Comparing Saxenda®, Wegovy®, Ozempic®, and Mounjaro®

1. Wegovy® (Semaglutide)

• Weekly injection

• Specifically studied for weight loss

• Contains a higher dose of semaglutide than Ozempic

• Can help reduce body weight by 15% or more

• Common side effects: nausea, fatigue, constipation

• Approved for long-term weight management

2. Ozempic® (Semaglutide)

• Originally approved for Type 2 diabetes

• Used off-label for weight loss

• Weekly injection with gradual dose escalation

• Supports weight reduction around 10–12%

• Widely used for both diabetes and weight control

• Also from Novo Nordisk

3. Mounjaro® (Tirzepatide) – The Game Changer

• Now officially licensed in Thailand

• Dual-action: GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist

• Delivers superior appetite regulation and improved insulin sensitivity

• Clinical trials show up to 22.5% total body weight reduction (one of the highest across all medications)

• Weekly injection with flexible dosing (2.5mg–15mg)

• Approved for Type 2 diabetes, but increasingly prescribed off-label for weight loss worldwide

• Unique advantage: targets two hormones, making it a potential first-choice option for patients who haven’t succeeded with other injectables

4. Zepbound™ (Tirzepatide)

• Tirzepatide rebranded and FDA-approved specifically for obesity

• Not yet widely available in Thailand

• Expected to perform similarly to Mounjaro

• Aimed directly at the weight loss market (vs diabetes management)

When to Consider Mounjaro® Over Saxenda®

Consultation and Professional Guidance at Siam Clinic

Choosing the right weight loss medication is personal. At Siam Clinic, our licensed physicians will assess your health status, weight goals, and lifestyle factors before recommending the best fit—whether that’s Saxenda®, Mounjaro®, or another GLP-1 option.

If you’re looking for an effective, clinically approved weight loss solution, our clinic provides only Mounjaro® – the latest generation medication now officially licensed in Thailand.

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