A 48-yeаr-оld wоmаn with а histоry of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and obesity (BMI 37 kg/m²) returns to the clinic 4 months after starting semaglutide as an adjunct to nutrition counseling, increased physical activity, and behavioral modification. She reports taking the medication as prescribed and has experienced mild nausea that has improved over time. Since starting therapy, she has lost 6% of her initial body weight, her blood pressure has improved, and she reports increased energy. She asks, "How do you know if this medication is working?" Which response by the nurse practitioner is most accurate?