Semaglutide is an injectable prescription medication used for treating type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. It helps lower blood sugar levels and reduces appetite, leading to potential weight loss in overweight or obese adults with at least one weight-related condition.
Here are some key things to know about semaglutide:
So in summary, semaglutide is an exciting new option for supporting weight loss through its appetite suppressing effects. When combined with lifestyle changes, it can lead to clinically significant weight reduction in many overweight and obese individuals.
There are many potential benefits of using semaglutide for weight loss or to manage type 2 diabetes:
- On average, people lost 12-15% of starting body weight over 68 weeks in clinical trials - Semaglutide works by suppressing appetite and reducing food cravings - The resultant calorie deficit leads to fat burning and weight reduction - Helps motivate lifestyle changes like healthy eating and exercise
- Lowers HbA1c levels in people with type 2 diabetes - Reduces blood pressure - Improves lipid profiles - Lowers cardiovascular disease risk
- Only need one injection per week - Easier to stick to than medications requiring daily dosing
So in many overweight or obese individuals struggling to lose weight, semaglutide can be an excellent adjunctive treatment option alongside diet and lifestyle changes. It frequently leads to substantial weight reduction and cardio-protective effects.
Semaglutide has been approved for chronic weight management in adults who meet the following criteria:
Additionally, it is approved for treating type 2 diabetes as an add-on medication. Talk to a medical provider to determine if semaglutide is appropriate for your individual health status and weight loss goals.
Some key things that may make someone a good candidate:
If you and your doctor decide semaglutide is right for you, here is an overview of what to expect when starting treatment:
- Your provider will submit prescription to specialty pharmacy - Pharmacy will contact you to enroll in medication support programs - They will coordinate insurance coverage approvals if needed
- Start with 0.25mg dose for 4 weeks - Increase to 0.5mg for 4 more weeks - Then move up to 1mg or 1.7mg for maintenance - Gradual escalation minimizes side effects
- Administer dose once weekly any day of week - Rotate injection sites each week (abdomen, thighs, arms) - Use provided pre-filled pen and follow directions
- Adopt nutrient-dense, reduced-calorie meal plan - Incorporate regular physical activity as tolerated - Make behavioral changes like mindful eating - Modify other medications or supplements if needed - Attend follow up appointments as scheduled
So in summary, the process involves getting set up with the specialty pharmacy, slowly escalating the dosage, learning to self-inject properly, and pairing it with diet/lifestyle interventions. This comprehensive approach gives semaglutide the best chance to help you successfully manage your weight and health.
Semaglutide was originally discovered in the saliva of the Gila monster lizard while scientists were searching for new substances to help manage diabetes. The compound was isolated from the Gila monster's saliva and found to stimulate natural insulin production, leading to the development of the diabetes medication Ozempic which contains a synthetic version of semaglutide.
Once you start taking semaglutide, here are some things you can expect to happen:
- Feel full faster and stay satisfied longer - Experience fewer food cravings/urges to snack - Naturally reduce overall food intake - Improved control around trigger foods
- See progressive loss averaging 1-2 lbs per week - Plateaus followed by periods of rapid fat burning - Lose fat from hips, thighs, abdomen first - Monitor weight weekly to track reductions
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea early on - Treat symptoms with antacids, diet, hydration - Effects typically resolve within 4-8 weeks - Follow up on severe, persistent, or worsening reactions
So in general, look for improvements in appetite control, gradual weight loss over time, gastrointestinal side effects that resolve, and other positive indicators that the medication is working. Keep your healthcare team informed of your experience and any concerning symptoms. With proper support, most patients adjust well to semaglutide therapy within the first couple months.
Here at Balance Hormone Clinic in Galveston, we specialize in weight management treatments like semaglutide as well as related health conditions:
- Nutrition counseling - Activity coaching - Behavior modification - Support group access - Personalized to your needs
- Semaglutide - Other anti-obesity agents - Diabetes drugs - Cholesterol, blood pressure meds - Ongoing medical oversight
- Body composition testing - Lab marker screening - Supplement guidance - Mental wellness coaching - Male and female wellness
We individualize multi-modal plans to help patients achieve sustainable weight improvements while also optimizing energy, mood, and other facets of health. Our goal is always comprehensive wellbeing paired with exemplary clinical support.
We accept most major insurance plans to improve affordability of weight treatments that might otherwise be costly out-of-pocket. Let our dedicated staff streamline the process for you.
For those looking to learn more about semaglutide or considering the medication for themselves, here are some additional details that may help with decision-making or preparations:
Appetite suppression in key hypothalamic regions Slows rate of stomach emptying so feel fuller longer Positive effects on satiety by dopamine regulation Enhances sensations of fullness after smaller meals
Lean protein & fiber at each meal/snack Consistent carb intake spaced evenly Resistant starches via cooked, cooled carbs Routinely assess hunger/fullness levels Relaxation techniques for stress reduction
All current medications and supplements Health conditions like thyroid dysfunction Struggles with particular eating patterns Prior weight loss attempts and results Questions/concerns about potential side effects
Enroll in savings card program (if eligible) Submit claims to insurance provider Inquire about copay assistance programs Use HSA/FSA funds if available Ask billing staff about payment plans
So in closing, we encourage you to learn all you can about semaglutide, make the necessary lifestyle adjustments to optimize success, communicate openly with your providers, and leverage available financial assistance to make this innovative weight loss treatment accessible. Our goal is your improved health, confidence and wellbeing. Contact us today to get started!
