WEIGHT LOSS
SEMAGLUTIDE INJECTIONS FOR WEIGHT LOSS
Semaglutide is a type of medication that belongs to the class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, or GLP-1 RAs. It mimics the GLP-1 hormone released in our body in response to eating. That is why one of the roles of GLP-1 is to prompt the body to produce more insulin, which reduces blood sugar (glucose). However, GLP-1 in higher amounts also interacts with the parts of the brain that suppress your appetite and signal you to feel full. For that reason, when Semaglutide is used in conjunction with diet and exercise, it can cause significant weight loss.
WHAT DO THE STUDIES SHOW?
Studies indicate that approximately 70% of the American adult population presents with obesity or overweight, which can be associated with serious health issues and conditions. Currently, Semaglutide is FDA-approved as Ozempic and Rybelsus to treat type 2 diabetes and as Wegovy to treat overweight and obesity. Therefore, it has been proven that when diet changes and exercise are combined with Semaglutie, this medication works its best to facilitate weight loss, and it can also be used to maintain weight loss.
The dose varies from patient to patient. Our protocol starts at 0.25 milligrams and may be increased depending on the patient’s response. It is self-administered on a weekly basis subcutaneously (under the skin) with a very thin needle. The first dose is administered at the office and the patient is educated on how to do it.
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECT OF SEMAGLUTIDE INJECTIONS?
The side effects are typically mild and usually include dizziness, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues (diarrhea, constipation, gassiness, nausea, vomiting, and pain). Most of the time, patients are able to decrease the discomfort and side effects by starting with a low dose and then progressively increasing the dose as appropriate under the supervision of a clinician.
