Losing Weight is Hard. Semaglutide Makes it Easier

Semaglutide with B12

What is Semaglutide?

GLP-1 medications (glucagon-like peptide 1s) are one of the most effective drug classes for long-term weight loss on the market. Semaglutide is a human-based GLP-1 receptor agonist prescribed as an adjunct to a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management in adults with an initial body mass index (BMI) that is considered outside a healthy range.

How does Semaglutide work?

It works by increasing insulin production and lowers glucagon secretion as well as targets areas in the brain that regulate appetite and food intake. A small change in the molecule allows the drug to last weeks in our bodies rather than the natural version our bodies make, which lasts minutes. This is a custom compound of Semaglutide and B12 for an added boost of energy, metabolism support and to reduce nausea side effects.

Semaglutide acts in the following ways

  • Delays how quickly our stomachs digest food leading to a feeling of fullness and satisfaction with smaller meal sizes.
  • Slows intestinal motility so you will feel fuller longer after meals.
  • Lowers blood sugars, in part by reducing the production of sugar in the liver.
  • Stimulates insulin secretion by the pancreas

How should I prepare for my Semaglutide treatment?

  • It is helpful to have lab work prior to your appointment to expedite the process (labs recommended to be within the year) .
  • The recommendedΒ labs are CBC, CMP, A1C, Lipid Panel, TSH
  • Know a rough estimate of your calorie such as tracking using MyFitnessPal
  • Bring your list of current medications and medication allergies if any

Frequently asked questions about Semaglutide

Semaglutide is a new FDA approved weight loss medication. However this is not a new medication. This medication is in a class of drugs known as GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide 1). This medication has been used and is currently used to manage type II diabetes.

Weight loss varies on how much you have to lose and lifestyle changes. Research participants have lost 5-20% of their initial weight. In our practice we have seen a weight loss of 1-3 lbs per week.
Most common side effects are GI symptoms such as nausea, constipation, acid reflux (heartburn), thirst, fatigue and headache. For a more detailed list, please refer to your prescription manual.
Labs are required in part to know if you are an appropriate candidate. These labs help to rule out any other causes for weight gain or difficulty losing weight and overall provide a snapshot of your general health.

We have a variety of options available. Labs can be ordered through Sonora Quest or Lab Express. We do cash pricing options which cost approximately $120 plus a draw fee of $15 at Lab Express. If you would like to use your insurance with Quest, we are not responsible for any fees incurred. Another option is to get your labs done as part of your routine physical appointment prior to your appointment with us.

We encourage recommendations as outlined by the American Heart Association. However, continuing whatever form of exercise you enjoy is recommended.
Family or personal history of thyroid cancer or Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2, pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, on-going cholecystitis or pancreatitis, type 1 diabetic, chronic kidney disease, and being a type 2 diabetic (this medication can treat this condition, however, we believe it is better managed by your primary care provider or endocrinologist)
Duration of treatment varies depending on your goals and how your body responds. Most patients start with 3 months and reassess thereafter.
Rebound weight gain is true for any form of weight loss whether that is with medication, calorie restriction and or exercise. Our goal is for this medication to help you and motivate you to implement lifestyle changes so that you can maintain your weight loss. This medication is also approved for chronic weight management.
Semaglutide with B12 can be discontinued immediately once your goal weight is reached or you simply wish to discontinue. We can also taper your dose to slowly discontinue. This will be discussed during your follow up visits with the nurse practitioner. There is no right or wrong method and it is patient specific.
You are more than welcome to schedule a weekly injection visit. Additionally, we can properly educate you or someone you trust to administer the medication at home. It is quick and virtually painless.
We use BMI as a guide but just like anything in medicine there is nothing that is black or white. Each consultation will include a discussion with physical and history to determine if weight loss is appropriate.

additional tips during weightloss

  • Get at least 150 minutes per week (25-30 a day) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity, or a combination of both, preferably spread throughout the week.
  • Add moderate-to high-intensity muscle-strengthening activity (such as resistance or weights) on at least 2 days per week.
  • Spend less time sitting. Even light-intensity activity can offset some of the risks of being sedentary.

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