Medication Information
Semaglutide
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide may ring a bell, as it was previously employed in medications for treating Type 2 Diabetes prior to gaining approval for long-term weight management. In 2017, the FDA sanctioned Ozempic, an injectable medication with semaglutide as its principal ingredient, for managing Type 2 Diabetes. Following this, in 2019, Rybelus, an oral pill also containing semaglutide, was granted FDA approval for Type 2 Diabetes treatment.
A noteworthy observation emerged when Ozempic and Rybelus were found to not only boost insulin production by stimulating the pancreas to lower blood sugar levels but also unexpectedly induce weight loss.
In light of these findings and extensive clinical research, Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic and Rybelus, formulated Wegovy, a novel weight loss medication employing semaglutide. In 2021, Wegovy secured FDA approval and has since assisted numerous individuals in shedding unwanted pounds.
The extent of weight loss achieved with semaglutide is quite significant. Clinical studies have revealed that many individuals managed to shed 15% to 20% of their initial body weight through semaglutide use.
How Does Semaglutide Work for Weight Loss?
Semaglutide, often referred to by its shorter name, GLP-1 agonist, operates as a glucagon-like peptide 1 agonist. GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone produced in the gastrointestinal system, aiding insulin production by stimulating the pancreas and signaling a sensation of satiety to the brain.
Semaglutide is engineered to replicate the action of the natural GLP-1 hormone. When ingested or administered, the body responds as if it were producing GLP-1 naturally.
In the context of weight loss, semaglutide slows stomach emptying by binding to receptors in the stomach lining. This delayed stomach emptying along with binding to GLP-1 receptors in the brain communicates a sense of fullness, consequently curbing food intake and reducing appetite – essential components for weight loss as you feel satisfied and are less inclined to eat.
Through the combination of enhanced insulin production, promoting more efficient food and fat breakdown, and the satiety induced, semaglutide usage can yield remarkable weight loss outcomes.
Learn more about the role of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists for Weight Loss by watching the video below.
How is Semaglutide Administered for Weight Loss?
When employing semaglutide for weight loss or weight management, it is best administered through injections, given on a weekly schedule. While oral or sublingual forms exist they are much less effective.
Through the Simple Weight Loss program, you will receive consultation and supervision from our trained weight loss physicians and clinical staff, who will assist in determining the appropriate dosage for your specific needs. Regular weekly monitoring allows our Physician to make dose adjustments as necessary, ensuring your program is customized to meet your individual requirements and yielding the best possible results. Although, side effects are rare, these can be curtailed with easy dosage adjustments keeping you feeling great and on track with your weight loss goals.
Are There Any Adverse Reactions Associated with the Use of Semaglutide for Weight Loss?
Considering that semaglutide primarily interacts with the gastrointestinal system, it comes as no surprise that the most frequently reported side effects are gastrointestinal in nature. Some of the prevalent side effects encountered by individuals utilizing semaglutide for weight loss comprise:
Diarrhea, Nausea, Heartburn, Gas, Vomiting, Constipation, Stomach pain
Despite these potential side effects, semaglutide remains a remarkably safe option for weight loss, boasting fewer adverse reactions compared to other weight loss medications available on the market. Additionally, the worthwhile benefits with weight reduction in cardiovascular health, insulin sensitivity, blood pressure improvement, cholesterol lowering, and sleep apnea improvement among many others are becoming more and more noteworthy and published.
While side effects resulting from semaglutide use are infrequent, they can still occur. Our physician can prescribe or recommend treatment options to help with the side effects. Often a dose reduction solves the unwanted side effect which is a huge benefit to using compounded semaglutide.
Our regular weekly monitoring serves to manage side effects effectively. We initiate your treatment with a conservative dosage and gradually increase it over time. Should you encounter any side effects, our physician provider can make any necessary adjustments to your dosage.
However, semaglutide is not recommended for use if you have any of the following conditions:
Known hypersensitivity/allergy to semaglutide
Personal/family history Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma
Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2
Pregnancy/plan to get pregnant in 2 months
Breastfeeding women
Pancreatitis history
Hypoglycemia history
