Semaglutide is a revolutionary medication transforming weight loss treatment. As a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, semaglutide helps people achieve significant and sustained weight loss by curbing appetite and reducing food cravings.
Our hormone clinic has witnessed remarkable success stories from semaglutide weight loss therapy. In this guide, we provide an overview of semaglutide, its weight loss benefits, eligibility criteria, side effects, and more. We also share tips on how to get the most out of treatment.
Semaglutide is a once-weekly injectable prescription medication originally approved for type 2 diabetes treatment. However, research showed that it also induces weight loss as a beneficial side effect.
In 2021, the FDA approved a higher dose semaglutide specifically for chronic weight management called Wegovy. Compared to other weight loss drugs, semaglutide offers superior efficacy and safety.
Some key facts about semaglutide:
In clinical trials, most patients lost 10-15% of their body weight on semaglutide. Some trials reported average weight loss of up to 20 pounds over 68 weeks.
There are many unique advantages to using semaglutide for weight management, beyond the amount of weight loss possible.
Excess visceral fat stored in the abdominal cavity is metabolically active and drives obesity-related disease. Semaglutide preferentially reduces harmful visceral fat deposits.
One of the biggest struggles with weight loss is keeping off the pounds long-term. Semaglutide users are more likely to maintain weight loss for over 2 years compared to placebo groups and those who only diet and exercise.
Beyond weight, semaglutide provides cardiovascular and metabolic benefits including:
By spurring significant fat loss and slimming waistlines, semaglutide improves mobility, energy levels, sleep quality, self-confidence, and overall wellbeing.
Semaglutide is appropriate for adults who meet the following criteria:
Two thresholds must be met for insurance coverage - a certain BMI along with an obesity-related comorbidity. Out-of-pocket costs may be high otherwise.
Semaglutide is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or people with certain medical conditions. A doctor will determine if you are eligible.
Starting semaglutide requires physician supervision. Here is an overview of what to expect:
Patient commitment to medications, lifestyle adjustments, and follow-up care is vital for treatment success.
Table 1. Typical Semaglutide Treatment Timeline
| Week | Dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0.25 mg | Start low dose to minimize side effects |
| 5 | 0.5 mg | Increase if tolerated well |
| 9 | 1.0 mg | Optimal weight loss dose |
| 14 | 1.0 mg | Continue for 6-12 months based on response |
| 24 | Discontinue or renew | Evaluate if further weight loss and health gains, else taper off |
Like all medications, semaglutide may cause some side effects. Many diminish with continued use.
Common transient side effects include:
Rare but serious risks involve diabetic retinopathy complications, pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, low blood sugar, kidney problems and allergic reactions. Very low risks of suicidal behavior and cancer were flagged but not proven.
To ease gastric troubles when starting semaglutide:
Talk to your healthcare provider if any worrisome or persistent side effects develop. Dose adjustments or add-on medications can help increase tolerance.
Many major insurance plans cover semaglutide, but copays can vary widely. Medicare and Medicaid also cover it, usually with low copays.
Without insurance or discounts, semaglutide can cost around $1000-1500 per month. However, semaglutide offers exceptional value compared to other obesity treatments, as no other medication reliably delivers 10-15% bodyweight reductions.
If insurance declines coverage, options include appealing the decision, enrolling in manufacturer savings programs, or exploring international pharmacies.
The amount of support patients receive greatly impacts semaglutide's effectiveness. Our clinic's comprehensive care model includes:
1. Nutrition optimization: Custom meal planning and counseling to reduce calories while ensuring nutritional needs are met. We emphasize high protein, high fiber carbs, healthy fats and hydration.
2. Activity planning: Graded exercise routines that match current fitness levels and slowly increase activity tolerance. Plus lifestyle adjustments to reduce sedentary time.
3. Behavior modification: Identifying personal weight loss barriers and problematic eating triggers. Applying CBT and mindfulness techniques to reinforce positive new habits.
4. Medication management: Optimizing doses of semaglutide, metformin or other synergetic meds for amplified, holistic weight loss effects. Preventing and easing side effects.
5. Body recomposition guidance: Tips to mitigate metabolic adaptation during weight loss. Strategies to preferentially shed fat while retaining calorie-burning lean mass as much as possible.
6. Maintenance blueprint: Transition planning for sustaining weight loss after stopping semaglutide, avoiding rebound weight gain.
Our individualized support targets all facets of the obesity struggle. Patient success depends hugely on the level of care received during treatment - from medication dosing to emotional support.
Losing weight takes immense commitment and effort. Having experienced guides to ease the process and boost your results makes the journey more attainable.
Our compassionate providers understand the obstacles you face. We create thoughtful, gently paced plans suited to your needs - combining counseling, community support groups, optimal medications and monitoring.
Semaglutide therapy is the latest weapon against obesity we carefully wield to help patients win their battles. We ease the ride with side effect remedies, insurance navigation, lifestyle coaching and more. Don't struggle alone. Let us customize a proven weight loss recipe for you!
Most people lose 10-15% of their starting weight. Some trials showed average losses of around 20 lbs in 5 months. Total loss depends on dosage, diet/exercise efforts, etc.
Continue for at least 6 months, and up to 2 years if still helping you lose/maintain reduced weight without issues.
No major issues have been seen over 4 years of study so far. Very low cancer/suicide flags require more data. It does carry risks if certain preexisting health conditions exist.
The dose can be increased to 2.4mg if plateaus occur. We also troubleshoot lifestyle factors and add other medications or utilize rescue options like Saxenda.
Some rebound is common if behaviors revert after discontinuing medications. We provide a transition plan to sustain gains via lifestyle adjustments. Sometimes metformin, phentermine, etc. are continued as well.
Semaglutide is a game-changing medication for individuals struggling with obesity and its associated health risks. With its proven ability to induce significant and sustained weight loss, semaglutide offers a promising solution for those who have struggled with traditional weight loss methods.
At the Rejuvenate Hormone Center, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive support and guidance to ensure our patients achieve optimal results with semaglutide therapy. Our multidisciplinary approach, which includes nutrition counseling, exercise planning, behavior modification, medication management, and transition planning, is designed to address all aspects of the weight loss journey.
If you are interested in exploring semaglutide as a weight loss option, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our experienced healthcare providers. Together, we can develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your goals and supports your overall health and wellness.
Remember, weight loss is a journey, and having the right support system can make all the difference. At Rejuvenate Hormone Center, we are committed to being your trusted partner every step of the way.
Table 2. Key Points about Semaglutide Weight Loss Therapy
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Mechanism | GLP-1 receptor agonist that curbs appetite and promotes fullness |
| Approved Indication | Chronic weight management for obesity (BMI ≥30 or BMI ≥27 with comorbidities) |
| Average Weight Loss | 10-15% of body weight within 6-12 months |
| Notable Benefits | Targets visceral fat, maintains weight loss long-term, improves cardiometabolic health |
| Common Side Effects | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation (transient and manageable) |
| Treatment Duration | At least 6 months, may continue up to 2 years if effective and tolerated |
| Comprehensive Care | Nutrition, exercise, behavior modification, medication management for optimal results |
