‘This Is My Decision’: A Qualitative Study of Individuals' Perspectives on Use of Semaglutide for Weight Loss

ABSTRACT

Individuals using semaglutide for weight loss constitute a new, sizeable patient group, yet limited qualitative research of this group exists. Therefore, we explored their perspectives, including motivation for treatment, attitudes towards the medication and experiences with its use. Semistructured interviews with seven individuals (five women, average age 50 years, average treatment duration 9 months) were conducted, audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using systematic text condensation. We identified three themes: ‘I have absolutely run out of options’, ‘I am lucky to have a cooperative doctor’ and ‘It's the feeling of being normal’. Using semaglutide for weight loss was considered a life‐changing event, as most respondents were concerned about declining physical health due to overweight. Most showed strong autonomy in managing their treatment, including delaying dose increases, reducing the dose or taking individual doses by ‘counting clicks’. Our data suggest a need for more support from healthcare professionals to guide individuals using semaglutide for weight loss, particularly in dosing, monitoring and managing side effects, with an emphasis on individualized and holistic care. Further research on individuals' perspectives related to weight loss and semaglutide use is needed to maintain and improve individuals' quality of life.

Summary

• More people are using semaglutide to lose weight, but we still know little about their experiences.

• To learn more, we interviewed seven users.

• Many saw the treatment as life‐changing, having struggled with overweight and concerns about their health.

• It was important to them to manage the dose themselves.

• Some delayed increasing the dose or took less than recommended by ‘counting clicks’.

• Our findings show that people using semaglutide for weight loss need more support from healthcare professionals—especially with dosing, side effects and personal guidance.

• More research is needed to better support these users and improve their quality of life.

1. Introduction

Worldwide, adult overweight and obesity have more than doubled over the last decades [1]. In 2023, 53% of Danish citizens over the age of 16 were living with overweight and 19% with obesity [2]. Overweight and obesity are associated with increasing comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Maintaining a healthy weight is therefore crucial to prevent a rising disease burden in the future [3].

Numerous nonpharmacological and pharmacological interventions exist to support weight loss, but they result in only minimal to moderate effects [4]. The medication Wegovy (semaglutide for weight loss) has been associated with sustained, clinically relevant reduction in body weight for adults with overweight and obesity [5, 6, 7, 8, 9]. The medication is administered via subcutaneous injection and follows a fixed dosing schedule, starting at 0.25 mg and gradually increasing to a maintenance dose of 2.4 mg after 16 weeks [10].

Semaglutide for weight loss was introduced in Denmark in December 2022 for adults with Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 27 and at least one weight‐related comorbidity or BMI ≥ 30 [10]. Since then, there has been a sharp increase in use. During the first year, almost 111 000 Danish adults initiated semaglutide treatment for weight loss, with general practitioners issuing prescriptions for 9 out of 10 users [11]. A Danish qualitative study with nurses and physicians from general practice also described a high public demand for semaglutide for weight loss [12]. Although individuals using semaglutide for weight loss now represent a new and sizeable patient group in clinical practice, limited research has explored their perspectives. In particular, little is known about how this treatment is experienced and negotiated in general practice from the individuals' point of view.

With this study, we aimed to explore individuals' perspectives on using semaglutide for weight loss, including their motivation for initiating treatment, attitudes towards the medication and experiences with its use.

2. Methods

2.1. Study Design

Attitudes among individuals using semaglutide for weight loss were assessed using a qualitative research design with semistructured interviews. The COREQ checklist [13] was used for reporting this study (Appendix S1).

2.2. Theoretical Framework and Authors' Preunderstandings

In this study, the authors are positioned in the hermeneutic tradition of Gadamer [14, 15], where interpretation is central to understanding empirical data and gaining insight into individuals' experiences and attitudes in a given context. This interpretation is shaped by the preunderstandings from the researchers.

The authors reflected on their preunderstandings of overweight, obesity and weight loss prior to data collection to enhance reflexivity during the study design and interpretations [16]. TG, MSS and CL are trained pharmacists with backgrounds in natural sciences. NTN is a registered nurse who, at the time of the study, was pursuing a master's degree in clinical nursing. TG, CL and NTN have experience in qualitative research. All authors shared the preunderstanding that individuals with overweight and obesity often struggle to lose weight in order to meet societal standards and appear ‘normal’. Furthermore, their preunderstanding was that overweight, obesity and weight loss affect individuals' view on body image. The authors entered the study with the intention to remain open to the respondents' attitudes and aimed to foster a space of curiosity to learn how the respondents experienced overweight, obesity and weight loss.

We used Bob Price's model of body image as a theoretical framework [17]. According to Price, body image consists of three elements: body reality, body presentation and body ideal, which are interrelated. Body reality refers to the individuals' objective, physical appearance, which is influenced by both genetics and environmental factors. Body presentation is how individuals express themselves through their body via clothing, adornment, body language and bodily attitude. The body ideal refers to individuals' thoughts about the ideal body and its appearance, feelings and functions, which can be shaped by cultural or societal standards.

2.3. Recruitment of Respondents

We used convenience sampling in our study. Respondents were recruited through two private Facebook groups where members share knowledge and experiences related to the use of semaglutide for weight loss. At the time of recruitment in February 2024, these groups had a combined total of 31 400 members. NTN posted an invitation to participate in either in‐person or video interviews lasting 30–60 min focusing on individuals' experiences and views on semaglutide use. Interested members were urged to contact NTN directly and subsequently received additional information via email or private message on Facebook before deciding whether to participate. Individuals were eligible for study participation if they were ≥ 18 years, able to speak and understand Danish and had used semaglutide for weight loss for at least 3 months. This timeframe was chosen to avoid a focus on early start‐up challenges and to allow time for respondents to reflect on the experience of taking the medication.

2.4. Interviews

The interviews were conducted in March 2024 using a semistructured approach guided by an interview guide developed through discussions between NTN, MSS and TG and informed by the model of body image as a framework for the topic of ‘bodily changes’ [17]. The final interview guide covered motivation for starting semaglutide for weight loss, experiences with the treatment, perception of bodily changes and perceived support from healthcare professionals. An English version of the interview guide is available in Appendix S2. All interviews were audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim by NTN.

2.5. Analysis

We conducted a systematic text condensation analysis [18], which includes four steps: (1) gaining an overall impression of the data material, (2) identifying meaning units and assigning codes, (3) grouping similar codes into themes and (4) recontextualizing codes into a holistic understanding in relation to context and theory, including Bob Price's model of body image [17]. The analysis was conducted using Nvivo 14 (Lumivero). NTN and TG performed the initial coding as an iterative process, and final codes were discussed among all authors. Supporting quotes from the interviews were selected by NTN and TG and translated into English. The steps of the analysis are illustrated with examples in Table 1.

TABLE 1.

Examples of steps in the qualitative analysis using systematic text condensation.

Meaning unit	Code	Theme
‘Because I can learn from people having bad side effects. And I was simply just panic‐struck by this’. (R4)	Pros and cons of medical treatment for weight loss	‘I have absolutely run out of options’
‘Well, it would feel strange to switch your GP [general practitioner] because you are offended by being cut off. But I am aware that if you do not have a good relationship with your GP, then you might not get any medication’. (R3)	Permission to get the medication prescribed	‘I am lucky to have a cooperative doctor’
‘They think it [the medication] is an easy solution, that I have not done it myself. And then I do n1ot want to explain why I have taken this choice. It's just my choice’. (R7)	Stigma of overweight and medication use for overweight	‘It's the feeling of being normal’

2.6. Ethical Reflections

The study was conducted in accordance with ethical guidelines in the Region of Southern Denmark and with the Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology policy for experimental and clinical studies [19]. The study was approved for data protection by Odense University Hospital (Record No. 24/1715). The National Committee on Health Research Ethics waived the requirement for ethical approval of the study.

After respondents accepted the invitation for study participation, they received written information about the study, including details on data handling and voluntariness of participation. At the beginning of each interview, this written information was explained, and verbal consent was recorded.

Before recruitment via the Facebook groups, NTN reviewed the group rules and obtained permission from the administrator to post an invitation for participation in the study, even though NTN was not undergoing semaglutide treatment for weight loss, which was a usual requirement for membership. This was done out of ethical considerations to respect members' autonomy.

3. Results

Twelve respondents showed interest in participating in the study, of whom nine accepted. However, two respondents withdrew on the day of the interview. The respondents consisted of two men and five women, with an average age of 50 years. Interviews lasted an average of 43 min. On average, the respondents had been using semaglutide for weight loss for 9 months (Table 2).

TABLE 2.

Demographics of the respondents.

Participants	Age	Sex	Interviewer	Interview duration	Interview setting	Interview type	Duration of semaglutide use
Respondent 1	58 years	Female	NTN	45 min	Home	Phone	7 months
Respondent 2	52 years	Female	NTN	38 min	Work place	Video	11 months
Respondent 3	41 years	Female	NTN	64 min	Home	Video	6 months
Respondent 4	64 years	Female	NTN	43 min	Home	Video	7 months
Respondent 5	33 years	Female	NTN	29 min	Home	Video	9 months
Respondent 6	55 years	Male	NTN	36 min	Home	Video	14 months
Respondent 7	48 years	Male	NTN	50 min	Work place	Video	7 months

Through the analysis, three themes were constructed (Figure 1). The first theme exemplified with the quote ‘I have absolutely run out of options’ is about the motivation for starting treatment with semaglutide for weight loss and balancing benefits and drawbacks. The second theme exemplified with the quote ‘I am lucky to have a cooperative doctor’ is about the collaboration with healthcare professionals is experienced for the respondents and how the treatment is actually negotiated in healthcare including self‐management of the treatment. The third theme exemplified with the quote ‘It's the feeling of being normal’ is about how individuals see their body during the course of weight loss and how the feeling of stigma from society affects the individuals.

FIGURE 1.

Themes and codes from the qualitative analysis using systematic text condensation.

3.1. Theme 1: ‘I Have Absolutely Run Out of Options’

3.1.1. A Desperate Desire for Weight Loss

For all respondents, it had been a long journey with overweight being a part of their life for many years, trying out different slimming diets, medical treatments and alternative treatments. One had undergone a gastric bypass, whereas a few were afraid to alter their digestive system permanently.

I have absolutely run out of options; I have tried all sorts of diets and workouts and anything. (R1)

Some had reached a turning point when a family member became ill or a person in the media died suddenly, and they felt desperate to do something about their weight.

I only thought that, well, I was desperate, and I would do something to lose weight. I have always dreamt of getting a pill that would make you lose weight. (R5)

Some had encountered a deterioration in health due to overweight, such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, inguinal hernia, gout, alarming blood tests and risk of developing type 2 diabetes. One also experienced concern from family about their weight. One respondent had an operation cancelled due to a high BMI, and some were even afraid of dying young because of their overweight.

Well, you can damn well die from being fat! (R2)

Most respondents were grateful for the opportunity to alter their lives and improve their health by having the medication prescribed. One had been able to stop taking medication for high blood pressure and gout. These results motivated them to continue using semaglutide for weight loss.

I feel so grateful to be in a position to do that, I think it has saved my life. (R2)

3.1.2. Limitations due to Overweight

For most respondents, it was a burden not to be able to do what they perceived as normal activities because of their overweight. Due to their weight loss, many were now able to enjoy playing with their children and walking their dog.

It's an incredible feeling, a huge asset, when I get to do things with my children. It's a huge motivation actually. (R3)

The respondents felt the results of their weight loss with semaglutide, as they experienced less pain and fatigue during physical activity compared to before treatment, and they perceived their risk of illness lowering.

I want to get old; I want to be able to walk my dogs and enjoy camping in the mountains when I retire. (R4)

3.1.3. Pros and Cons of Medical Treatment for Weight Loss

The respondents all considered starting semaglutide for weight loss a well‐considered decision, and they weighed the pros and cons of their treatment. Using a self‐injectable medication was intimidating to some, but they were willing to overcome this apprehension to achieve the weight loss they strived for.

The respondents perceived some challenges around food and eating after initiating semaglutide for weight loss. Most of them ate the same types of food as before, but they found that they could eat much less. They perceived this as a social problem, for instance, around the dinner table or when dining out with friends. Some felt that even though they still craved food or sweets, semaglutide helped them manage it and work with their mindset around food and eating habits.

I have overeaten in many years […] Wegovy® has given me the calm to learn a way of handling it and given me some new tools. (R6)

For some respondents, it was a problem that they could not eat enough to give their body the energy it needed, and most had to prioritize their food to ensure they got the necessary vitamins and minerals. Two respondents found that their body could not heal properly after an injury and surgery due to the limited food intake, so they had to pause or taper their semaglutide treatment during the recovery period.

But, yes, I have chosen that I simply need to eat three times a day, and that I need more than one spoon of rice for dinner. It is not enough. I can't survive on this. (R1)

Most respondents experienced mild side effects such as constipation, headache and burping, typically when starting semaglutide or increasing the dose. It was important for the respondents to manage these mild side effects or learn how to live with them, so they would not dominate their everyday life. Some knew others who had to stop treatment due to side effects. The respondents were concerned about more serious side effects such as liver damage and the fact that the long‐term effects of semaglutide are still unknown. However, this concern was not enough for them to reject the treatment.

It has been considered that you don't know which side effects … Maybe we all end up having cancer. But in regard to the quality of life you get [it will be worth it]. (R1)

3.2. Theme 2: ‘I Am Lucky to Have a Cooperative Doctor’

3.2.1. Permission to Get the Medication Prescribed

Most respondents had requested the initiation of semaglutide for weight loss themselves by contacting their general practitioner (GP). Before starting treatment, some respondents were afraid that their GP would not prescribe semaglutide, as they had heard of many people wanting the medication but being unable to obtain it. One had even prepared a talk in advance of the GP appointment and recommended others to know their rights and the guidelines from health authorities before visiting their GP.

Well, I am lucky to have a cooperative doctor. (R2)

During the course of treatment, most respondents were nervous that the treatment might be discontinued. They felt their health was in the hands of their GP and worried that the GP might suddenly decide to stop the treatment. They feared that they would lose everything they had achieved.

Each time I am in contact with my GP, well, is it now they gonna say no? (R2)

The respondents agreed that limitations in prescribing practice were acceptable, as semaglutide for weight loss should not be prescribed to just anyone. If the overweight was caused by something like an eating disorder, it was important to address the underlying causes first. They also believed that people with a normal BMI who just wanted to lose a few pounds should not be using semaglutide for weight loss. One respondent was troubled by the fact that semaglutide for weight loss is not reimbursed in Denmark, making it accessible only to wealthier people. A few respondents had unsuccessfully tried to get reimbursement for their treatment despite not being eligible. However, it was important for the respondents to feel that they were not sponging off the state, especially as they described a large market where people pay for semaglutide illegally and without prescriptions.

I have paid for this myself so it is actually my own problem, nobody should blame me. (R7)

3.2.2. Lack of Support From Healthcare Professionals

Even though most respondents generally felt supported by their healthcare professionals, some had also experienced a lack of support. Because most were not accustomed to self‐injection, they especially needed practical instructions, as well as explanations about side effects and how to avoid them. One respondent had practised injecting using a needle pad at the GP, and another had discussed needles and the injection device with a nurse. Some had experienced healthcare professionals being unable to answer their questions and had instead turned to Google or Facebook for answers.

Every time I have been to weight check, I have had questions not being answered. (R1)

Most respondents had not had blood tests or follow‐up appointments with their GP. Some had a follow‐up course with the nurse for a few months and then simply requested a prescription when needed. One respondent felt it was a waste of time for their GP to do weight checks, whereas others would like to have occasional conversations with their GP or nurse. A few respondents stated that the healthcare professional had assured them they could make an appointment if needed, but they felt it would be easier if one were offered. Additionally, some expressed a desire for other types of support during their weight loss, such as consultations with a dietician, psychologist or hypnotist, to help change their eating habits and mental well‐being.

Mentally, it would be a good idea to have conversations with someone who can take charge of the mind. There are lot of waiting time and very little help to get. (R6)

3.2.3. Dose and Duration for Treatment

Even though it is recommended to increase to a maintenance dose of 2.4 mg, the respondents used doses they considered more suitable for them. Reasons for taking a lower dose than recommended included having achieved the desired effect with a smaller dose, avoiding side effects, making the treatment more financially manageable and desiring to lose weight at a slower pace. The respondents felt it was important to be part of the process and to work alongside the treatment with their eating habits and mindset. They also needed to feel comfortable in their changing body, which was difficult if the change happened too quickly.

But I can dose according to how strongly I react to the medication. (R6)

Some waited longer before increasing the dose, whereas others stayed at a lower dose or even reduced it. Only one respondent used the maintenance dose; most believed they would never reach it. Most used a method referred to as ‘counting clicks’, where instead of taking the full dose, they adjusted the dose by counting how many units the pen was set to. This gave them a sense of empowerment to control their treatment.

The GP told me, or was it the nurse, that they would not tell me to increase the dose after one month, this is my decision. (R7)

Some had discussed their practice with ‘counting clicks’ with their GP or nurse. Even though the practice could not be recommended, the healthcare professionals accepted it. For a few respondents, a higher dose was even prescribed to help manage treatment costs.

You can count clicks, and then you can count maybe half of a dose […] You are not allowed to do it, but I have done it, and my GP has said it was okay. (R3)

Even though all respondents had been told that semaglutide for weight loss is a lifelong treatment, many had considered stopping at some point, some for financial reasons, or because they did not want to feel ill by being obliged to taking medication. The respondents saw semaglutide as a catalyst for their weight loss and hoped they could eventually manage without it, once they had worked with their habits and reached a stable weight. They intended to taper the medication slowly over months after reaching their desired weight loss and possibly stop completely or continue on a very low dose. However, the respondents were afraid of regaining the lost weight, and if that happened, they were willing to resume taking semaglutide.

When I have lost what I must lose in weight, then I need to find some sort of maintenance dose which fits me, right. (R4)

3.3. Theme 3: ‘It's the Feeling of Being Normal’

3.3.1. Body Reality

All respondents experienced positive physical changes in their body after starting treatment with semaglutide. They monitored their weight loss by weighing themselves and taking body measurements. Also, when clothes became too large or previously tight clothes suddenly fit, it signalled a positive change in their body. Some monitored their progress daily; however, this constant focus on their body and the weight‐loss process could be stressful and lead to sadness. Therefore, some respondents took breaks from monitoring to give their minds a rest. Other physical changes included noticing stronger muscles, having regular menstrual cycles, reduced fatigue and relief from edema.

So I feel it on my body and condition, I am not exhausted in the same way anymore. (R5)

Even though the physical change of the body was perceived positively, respondents sometimes struggled to adjust to their new body reality, especially if the weight loss happened too quickly.

I have been taking 0.5 mg most of the time, but now I take 0.25 […] because I want to be in a place where I still can feel my hunger and work with it. (R6)

3.3.2. Body Presentation

Respondents all spoke about the difficulties in finding suitable clothes before weight loss, as most clothes are not designed for larger bodies. This made them feel abnormal, hate their bodies or limit themselves to buying only accessories when shopping with friends. Being overweight was a central part of their identity and something that was present every day. Losing weight and gaining access to a wider selection of clothes boosted their self‐confidence and sense of empowerment. One respondent posted before and after photos of her body on social media to inspire others to lose weight.

It is fantastic to be able to use normal clothes; it's the feeling of being normal. I can't even describe it, well, it is really fantastic. (R3)

3.3.3. Body Ideal

Respondents all expressed that one is never truly satisfied with being overweight, even if they could live a good life and were not ashamed of themselves. They acknowledged that body ideals are shaped by society, with social media having a significant influence on how to look. Still, respondents agreed that the normal BMI range was not necessarily the best weight for them; it could be higher or lower, depending on when they felt comfortable in their own body. Some respondents emphasized that the younger generation is starting to challenge society's narrow definitions of body ideal and creating broader norms for what is acceptable for a larger body.

I really hope these young people, men, women, whatever, will be able to stick to that the right body ideal is what I want. (R4)

3.3.4. Stigma of Overweight and of Medication Use for Overweight

Most respondents described encountering stigma and prejudices because of their overweight, which could affect their motivation to participate in society. Some had worked hard to not feel discouraged by this stigma.

You see a profound hatred to fat persons, and I have become better at ignoring that. (R6)

All respondents had experienced negative societal attitudes towards using semaglutide for weight loss, which was often perceived as an easy solution. Some noted that semaglutide for weight loss should remain unreimbursed, because being overweight was viewed as a personal fault. Respondents felt that many people had opinions about semaglutide for weigh loss even those who were not overweight themselves. Respondents emphasized that they were doing something good for the society by paying to lose weight, as it would reduce their future healthcare burden. They felt proud of taking responsibility and seeking help.

I wish that [people would tell me] it is damned well done, instead of calling it a cheating cure and that I am taking an easy way out and all that, because it's just not easy. (R1)

Many respondents did not tell others about using semaglutide for weight loss, only family and other close relations, or when asked directly, because they feared being met with prejudice.

Other respondents were very open and told everybody about their treatment. A few had even spoken publicly, such as on television or social media. Their reasons included breaking taboos, inspiring others or holding themselves accountable during their weight‐loss process.

People who are taking blood pressure‐lowering medicine must not always explain why they do that, must they? Then why should I explain? (R2)

4. Discussion

In this study, we investigated individuals' motivation for and experiences with using semaglutide for weight loss. Respondents describe initiating treatment out of desperation and due to significant limitations in their everyday life. They characterized the treatment as a careful balancing with pros and cons, particularly experiencing the negative societal attitudes. Although most respondents felt supported by their healthcare professionals, they expressed a desire for more follow‐up by the GP and broader support, including referrals to dieticians or psychiatrists. The respondents generally took a very autonomous approach to semaglutide use, and most did not follow the recommended dose titration. This was primarily done to avoid side effects, reduce costs or slow the pace of weight loss. Many respondents described the practice of ‘counting clicks’ to take smaller, personalized doses. Respondents felt how physical changes in their body enabled them to express themselves through clothing and engage in activities they had previously avoided. At the same time, the respondents spoke about a demeaning of individuals being overweight and also for users of semaglutide for weight loss.

4.1. Comparison to Existing Literature

A recent cohort study of over 100 000 Danish Wegovy users found that nearly half remained on a 1‐mg dose by their fourth prescription [11]. Our study offers potential explanations for this, as well as the use of dose adjustments via ‘counting clicks’ to achieve a more suitable balance between efficacy, side effects and affordability. Interestingly, a recent survey [20] of more than 550 Danish adult Wegovy users reported weight loss outcomes comparable to clinical trials [5, 6, 7, 8, 9], although dosing regimens were addressed in this study. Together, these findings highlight the need for future studies investigating dosing practices in relation to weight loss in real‐life users.

The recent survey [20] of more than 550 Danish adult Wegovy users also showed that 4 in 10 had not discussed treatment duration with their GP and that only a few expected life‐long treatment. In our study, most respondents had not decided how long they would continue treatment with semaglutide for weight loss but were open to tapering off if possible, even when told the treatment was intended to be lifelong. A qualitative study [21] found that individuals with severe obesity may experience hopelessness and negative thoughts that can impact their weight loss negatively but that long‐term trusting relationships with healthcare professionals can be helpful. Similarly, our respondents emphasized the importance of their relationships with healthcare professionals and expressed fear of losing access to continued treatment.

Respondents in our study described actively asking their GPs for treatment, sometimes preparing in advance and knowing their rights in advance. This is consistent with findings from a survey study stating that two in three users of semaglutide for weight loss had personally asked their general practitioner for initiation of the treatment [20], as well as a qualitative study describing that individuals consulting their GP for initiation of treatment with semaglutide for weight loss were eager, active, well informed and well prepared [12]. This aligns with another study showing that the majority of prescriptions are issued in general practice [11].

According to Bob Price, body image consists of three interrelated components: body reality, body presentation and body ideal, and it is essential for healthcare professionals to understand an individual's body image as complex and dynamic [17]. During their weight loss, our respondents became more aware of their body reality, noticing things they had previously missed, such as being able to play with their children or walk the dog. They experienced a change in their body presentation during their weight loss and expressed themselves through clothing that had previously been inaccessible to them. This transformation can be life‐changing [17], but for some respondents, it also brought fear of losing control over body image, including not being able to manage the pace of weight loss. All respondents had lived with overweight all their life, and they described needing time to adjust to their new body image. Similar findings were reported in a qualitative study on changes in body appearance after weight loss [22].

Consistent with our preunderstandings, our findings suggest that weight loss is experienced as a continuous struggle towards normality. However, the willingness to use medication for weight loss was more nuanced, with respondents carefully balancing the pros and cons. A qualitative study on mental health among people treated for obesity and diabetes showed that respondents were willing to endure side effects during weight loss for improvements in physical and mental health [22]. This was mirrored in our study, where respondents expressed similar trade‐offs between side effects and improvement in well‐being.

4.2. Strengths and Limitations

In this study, we sought to enhance transparency by stating our preunderstandings, illustrating steps in the analysis and applying the COREQ checklist for reporting.

One strength of this study was the option for online interviews. Given the stigma surrounding overweight and use of weight‐loss medication, remote interviews may have made the respondents more comfortable and candid. A limitation, however, was the limited ability to observe body language during online or telephone interviews. We mitigated this by asking clarifying questions when respondents' statements were difficult to interpret. Another limitation was that two respondents conducted their interview at their work place, which may have influenced their openness.

Further, recruitment via Facebook and the small sample size could be seen as limitations. It is likely that this recruitment method attracted a particular subgroup of users of semaglutide for weight loss. Furthermore, younger individuals may have offered different perspectives. Nonetheless, the data were still in content, and the respondents were willing to share detailed accounts of their experiences and attitudes.

4.3. Implications for Practice

This study found that healthcare professionals could be more attentive to the evolving needs of individuals using semaglutide for weight loss. Although most respondents felt supported by healthcare professionals, they expressed a need for more guidance, particularly regarding practical instructions, management of side effects and referrals to other healthcare professionals. Furthermore, our findings suggest that individuals' use of the medication often deviates from clinical recommendations in terms of dosage and treatment duration. This has implications for safety and efficacy, and healthcare professionals should proactively explore and address such patterns in collaboration with their patients.

5. Conclusion

Respondents in this study were motivated to use semaglutide for weight loss due to declining physical health and a history of unsuccessful attempts to lose weight. The respondents experienced positive changes in body image during their weight loss but also expressed concern about side effects and did not follow the treatment recommendations regarding dosage or treatment duration. Some respondents highlighted a need for greater support during their weight loss process. It is important for healthcare professionals to provide individualized and holistic care, recognizing individuals' autonomy while offering guidance tailored to their specific experiences and goals.

More research on the perspectives of the individuals using semaglutide for weight loss is needed, such as how to manage concerns about side effects, how to adjust dosing regimens and how to collaborate with healthcare professionals to maintain and improve the individuals' quality of life.

Author Contributions

N.T.N., T.G., M.S.S. and C.L. designed the study. N.T.N. recruited the respondents and conducted the interviews. N.T.N. and T.G. analysed the data, and the analysis was discussed among all authors. N.T.N. and T.G. drafted the manuscript and all authors critically revised it. All authors have approved the final version of the manuscript.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Supporting information

Appendix S1 Information on reporting according to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ).

Appendix S2 Interview guide.

Data Availability Statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available on request from the corresponding author. The data are not publicly available due to privacy or ethical restrictions.