GLP-1 Medication-aided Weight Loss Program
Medically assisted weight loss programs using glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists (generics are semaglutide or tirzepatide, name brands are Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus, Trulicity, etc.) have exploded in popularity over the past year due to the incredible results patients are getting with these medications. Studies have found that people taking semaglutide and making lifestyle changes lost about 33.7 pounds versus 5.7 pounds in those who didn't take the drug.
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About Medical Weight Loss
GLP-1 agonists, such as semaglutide or liraglutide, are medications that help with controlling blood sugar and inducing weight loss. They are FDA approved for type 2 diabetes and weight loss for people with a BMI over 27. All but one GLP-1 medication are delivered by injection. In addition to the medication, life style changes, including increased exercise and an appropriate diet, are needed to achieve optimal results.
What it is
These drugs mimic the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1. When blood sugar levels start to rise after eating, these drugs stimulate the body to produce more insulin. The extra insulin helps lower blood sugar levels. But it's not clear how the GLP-1 drugs lead to weight loss. They appear to help curb hunger and slow the movement of food from the stomach into the small intestine. As a result, users may feel full faster and longer, leading to less food intake.
How it Works
After the initial consultation by Dr. Olga, patients will start a program of weekly visits to evaluate their response to treatment and receive the next dose. During these appointments, the medication dosage will be ramped up to the correct amount for each patient. After an appropriate dose level is achieved, the patient will be transitioned to home treatment and visits will be reduced to once a month.
What to Expect
FAQs
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Anyone desiring to lose weight and have had difficulty doing it on their own, or have reached a plateau and just need help getting off those extra few pounds. Semaglutide is ideal for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 27.
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Despite GLP-1 agonists being a great tool for many people, it's not for everyone. Certain people shouldn't take it:
-Pregnant or breastfeeding women
-People with a history of pancreatitis
-People with Type-1 diabetes
-People with an allergy to semaglutide (or any of its ingredients)
-People with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2
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Most patients will begin to see weight loss after their initial dose has increased one to two times, typically within a month.
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Semaglutide is injected just under the skin (subcutaneously), typically in your abdomen. Only 1 GLP-1 medication can be taken orally; the rest are via injection.
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The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, diarrhea, tiredness, dizziness, or constipation. Initial side effects usually lessen as you continue to use GLP-1s.
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No, you do not need to have type 2 diabetes. Additionally, patients with type 1 Diabetes are not appropriate for this treatment.