Remote Care Supports Effective Weight Loss With Semaglutide

Original Article: https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/remote-care-enables-effective-weight-loss-semaglutide-2026a100001v

The Study

A recent report describes how people who are overweight or obese are able to achieve meaningful weight loss using semaglutide when the medication is delivered through remote care. Instead of frequent in-person clinic visits, patients received treatment through telemedicine, along with digital tools, virtual check-ins, and behavioral support.

What Researchers Found

Results showed that patients enrolled in remote weight-management programs lost a significant amount of weight, similar to outcomes seen in clinical trials. Many participants lost around 15% or more of their starting body weight over about a year, and a large number reached clinically meaningful weight-loss goals. These outcomes suggest that semaglutide remains effective even when care is delivered virtually.

Why Remote Care Works

Remote programs typically combine medication with ongoing support, such as coaching, education, and progress tracking through apps or online platforms. This approach helps patients stay engaged, manage side effects, and make lifestyle changes that support weight loss, even without regular in-person visits.

Why This Matters

Access to obesity specialists can be limited because of long wait times, cost, or geographic barriers. This study suggests that remote care could make effective weight-loss treatment with semaglutide available to more people. While staying engaged over time can be a challenge, remote care offers a scalable option for expanding access to obesity treatment without sacrificing effectiveness.