Medical weight loss refers to the process of losing weight under the guidance and supervision of healthcare professionals.
One of the key advantages of medical weight loss is the personalized approach it offers. Healthcare professionals work closely with individuals to develop a comprehensive weight loss plan that addresses their specific needs and preferences. This may involve a combination of dietary modifications, exercise recommendations, behavioral therapy, and in some cases, medications or surgical interventions.
What is Semaglutide?
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Semaglutide is a weight loss medication received by weekly injection
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Semaglutide is FDA approved for weight loss
How Does Semaglutide Work?
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Slows down stomach emptying so that after eating, you feel full longer
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Suppresses appetite and food cravings (on average patients eat ~30% less)
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Lowers blood glucose levels (without making glucose levels too low)
Your body naturally produces several substances that affect your appetite. One of these is called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). The body produces GLP-1 naturally when you eat. GLP-1 stops you from feeling hungry and makes you feel full or satisfied.
Semaglutide imitates GLP-1 in the body. This means that Semaglutide provides the same effect as this natural substance (GLP-1) in our bodies.
Reduced food intake: Because Semaglutide reduces feelings of hunger, you eat less food. When combined with a healthy diet and exercise, Semaglutide will help you lose weight.
Effect on plaques in your blood vessels: In some studies, Semaglutide stopped the progression of plaque formation in blood vessels. This is likely why Semaglutide has also been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and strokes
Who Can Take Semaglutide?
Adult patients with an initial body mass index (BMI) of
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30 kg/m2 or greater (obesity)
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27 kg/m2 or greater (overweight) in the presence of at least one weight-related comorbid condition (e.g., hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, or dyslipidemia)
You CANNOT take Semaglutide if you have any of the following conditions:
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personal or family history of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC)
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personal or family history of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia, type 2 (MEN 2)
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prior allergic reaction to Semaglutide or to any of its ingredients* (serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedema, have been reported with Semaglutide)
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diabetic retinopathy (diabetic eye disease)
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pregnant or trying to get pregnant (the estimated background risk of major birth defects is ~3% and the estimated background risk of miscarriage is ~18% – these percentages are increased with use of Semaglutide during pregnancy)
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breast-feeding (Semaglutide is present in breast milk)
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less than 18 years old
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depression with a history of suicidal thoughts