Hyderabad Obesity Trial (HOT): Role of Semaglutide in Obese Non-Diabetic Patients of Hyderabad Sindh

Abstract

Objective: To determine the efficacy of Semaglutide in weight reduction in non-diabetic obese patients.

Study Design: Quasi experimental study

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the OPDs of Liaquat University Hospital Hyderabad/Jamshoro & Saddar Hyderabad from 1st July 2024 to 31st March 2025.

Methods: Two hundred and sixty nine patients from either gender, age range between 27 and 45 and body mass index >24.5 were enrolled. Fifty patients were drooped at 2nd week and 6th week due to financial reasons. The sampling technique was non-probability. The Semaglutide started at 0.25 mg weekly for 1st month, 0.5 mg sub cutaneous on 2nd month and 1mg on 3rd month. The reduction of weight >3 % from the baseline at 4thweek and >5% at 3rd month was considered as good efficacy. The body mass index reduced 0.5% from base line to end of third month was considered significant effect of Semaglutide.

Results: There were 105 (48%) males and 114 (52%) females with urban 118 (54%) and rural 101 (46%). The age range was 25-49 years with median ~35 years. The pre-semaglutide body mass index of mean 33 and range was 25-
42%. After 3 months of treatment, mean body mass index was 32.5 and significant (p<0.0001) indicates a statistically significant reduction in body mass index after Semaglutide treatment. Average weight loss was 4.3 kg
over 3 months. Side effects were most common in the youngest group (65%), driven by nausea/vomiting (30%). Visual problems increased with age (10% to 20%), while gastrointestinal symptoms declined.

Conclusion: Semaglutide demonstrates potent weight-reduction efficacy in non-diabetic populations, particularly among younger individuals. However, age, gender, and regional factors significantly influence tolerability, necessitating personalized approaches to optimize outcomes.