Semaglutide

Frequently Asked Questions:

What Is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a medication that has been approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and, more recently, for the treatment of obesity. It is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, and it helps to promote weight loss through several mechanisms:

How Does Semaglutide Work?

• Reduced Appetite: Semaglutide acts on the GLP-1 receptors in the brain, specifically the hypothalamus, to reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness. This results in decreased food intake, leading to calorie restriction and, consequently, weight loss.
• Slower Gastric Emptying: GLP-1 receptor agonists like Semaglutide can slow down the emptying of the stomach, which leads to a feeling of fullness and helps reduce the rate at which calories are absorbed from food.
• Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Semaglutide can enhance insulin sensitivity, allowing cells to better utilize glucose. This can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the potential for fat storage.
• Reduced Fat Absorption: GLP-1 receptor agonists may reduce the absorption of dietary fats in the intestines, leading to fewer calories being absorbed from the diet.
• Enhanced Energy Expenditure: Some research suggests that Semaglutide may increase energy expenditure or thermogenesis, potentially helping the body burn more calories.

These combined effects result in weight loss for individuals who use Semaglutide. The exact mechanisms through which Semaglutide causes weight loss are not fully understood, but it appears to be a combination of reduced appetite, improved satiety, and potential metabolic changes that collectively lead to a decrease in body weight. It is important to note that the use of Semaglutide should be under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as it is prescribed for specific medical conditions like obesity or type 2 diabetes, and its use may have side effects.

What Are The Side Effects

The most common side effects of Semaglutide typically include:

• Nausea: Nausea is one of the most common side effects, especially when starting Semaglutide. It can often be managed by gradually increasing the dose over time. You will be prescribed Zofran to keep at home in case you have nausea or vomiting.
• Vomiting: Some individuals may experience vomiting if nausea is not controlled. You will be prescribed Zofran to keep at home in case you experience nausea or vomiting.
• Diarrhea: Diarrhea is another gastrointestinal side effect that may occur with Semaglutide treatment but not as common as nausea vomiting or constipation.
• Abdominal pain: Stomach discomfort or abdominal pain can be experienced by some individuals but usually as a result of nausea vomiting or constipation.
• Decreased appetite: While decreased appetite can be a desired effect for those using Semaglutide for weight management, it can also lead to reduced food intake and potentially weight loss, which may be a concern for some patients.
• Constipation: In some cases, constipation may occur as a side effect of Semaglutide. Our providers will educate patients to take a fiber supplement, stool softener or a laxative.
• Injection site reactions: Injection site reactions such as redness, itching, or swelling can occur, as Semaglutide is administered by subcutaneous injection.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may tolerate Semaglutide very well. The side effects can often improve or become less bothersome as the body adjusts to the medication. It’s crucial to discuss any side effects or concerns with your healthcare provider when using Semaglutide, as they can provide guidance and may adjust the dose or recommend other measures to manage side effects. Additionally, there can be more serious side effects associated with this medication, so it’s essential to use it under the supervision of a healthcare professional who can monitor your response to treatment and address any issues that may arise.

How Long Should I Expect To Stay On Semaglutide?

This varies quite a bit because it depends on the desired weight loss. Most of our patients will stay on Semaglutide for about 4-6 months on average.

How Much Weight Can I Expect To Lose?

Majority of our patients have lost anywhere from 10-20% of their weight, this is approximately 20-40lbs.

What Happens Once Target Weight Is Reached? Do I Have To Wean Off The Medication? Will The Weight Come Back

Once target weight has been reached, Semaglutide is discontinued. There is usually no weaning off required. Most of our patients have gained about 5-10 lbs back and some have even continued to lose weight afterwards. It all depends on how well you maintain yourself, diet control and cardio fitness dedication.

How Much Does It Cost? And How Much Does Blood Work Cost?

Our Semaglutide program is about $412 per month. Blood work is included in the program.

Is The Weight Loss Guaranteed?

Unfortunately, no. However, out of the 100+ patients we treat, more than 90% have lost weight.

Why Is Your Semaglutide Expensive Whereas Online Pharmacies Offer It For Much Less?

There are several reasons for this. Most importantly our Semaglutide is compounded at an accredited local sterile pharmacy. To us national accreditation is very important, this ensures that our patients get quality and completely sterile medication. We also have BPC 157 added to Semaglutide which offsets a lot of the side effects listed above, whereas other pharmacies will only add B12 in small amounts. Our Semaglutide program is closely monitored by our providers and patients are required to follow up in person every 4 weeks and blood work is done whenever deemed necessary.

How Do I Get Started?

Click here and select “Weight loss consult”, once you register then one of our staff members will reach out to you and schedule you for an appointment to get started!