What is Semaglutide?
In June 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved semaglutide (Wegovy) injection (once weekly) for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition (such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol), for use in addition to a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity. This under-the-skin injection (subcutaneous) is the first approved drug for chronic weight management in adults with general obesity or overweight since 2014. The drug is indicated for chronic weight management in patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or greater who have at least one weight-related ailment or in patients with a BMI of 30 or greater.
Originally used for diabetes and sold under the name Ozempic, a higher dose of the same drug was evaluated for weight loss. The results were dramatic, with the average individual losing 15(+) % of their body weight during the clinic trial.
How it works: Semaglutide works by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) that targets areas of the brain that regulate appetite and food intake; it is a powerful appetite suppressant. It also works by increasing the production of insulin and appears to enhance growth of β cells in the pancreas, which are the sites of insulin production. Additionally, it inhibits glucagon, which is a hormone that increases blood sugar. It has been known to aid not only in weight loss, but helps to lower glucose levels in those who are pre-diabetic or who have type 2 diabetes.
- Delays stomach emptying, leading to a feeling of fullness and smaller meal size
- Works at the level of the brain to decrease cravings and regulate appetite
- Lowers blood sugars, in part by reducing the production of sugar in the liver
- Stimulates insulin secretion by the pancreas
You are NOT a good candidate for semaglutide if you have any of the following: diabetic retinopathy, low blood sugar, decreased kidney function, pancreatitis, medullary thyroid cancer (or a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma), or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2.
Since the semaglutide injection does not help increase energy or boost metabolism, we recommend pairing it with either a vitamin b-12 injection or Lipovite injections.
Getting started
We start with a weight management consultation in the office to determine if this is the appropriate program for you. You must fit the criteria to be a good candidate. See the first paragraph above for more info.
$125 – initial consult – history, measurements, In Body Body Composition Analyzer (value of $50). Discussion of meal options and review of the program .
$375 /month of Semaglutide, this is an injection once a week.►We will then order the medication, it ships to our office (it can take uo to 7-10 days) then we let you know when you can pick it up
Follow ups are every 2-4 weeks
There is a minimum time commitment of 4 months for this program