Many individuals find it challenging to maintain a healthy weight, and when diet and exercise aren't enough, prescription weight loss medications can be a viable solution. Cape Family Medical Clinic offers various weight loss programs, including those utilizing a Semaglutide/B12 compound or Phentermine, combined with a 12-Month Health & Wellness Guide. These programs aim to help individuals achieve a healthy lifestyle and have shown to produce a five to fifteen percent weight reduction for patients.
For those seeking a weight loss clinic, Cape Girardeau, MO, offers personalized, evidence-based treatments to support your weight loss journey.
Understanding Weight Loss Medications
Phentermine
Phentermine is a prescription appetite-suppressant drug that binds to receptors on the hypothalamus. It is prescribed to obese or overweight adults with weight-related medical problems to help them lose weight and prevent regaining it. Phentermine was one of the drugs in the fen-phen combination.
Semaglutide
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist, administered for weight loss. GLP-1 agonists mimic the effect of incretins, hormones released by the small intestine after eating. These hormones trigger insulin release and block sugar production. Semaglutide slows gastric emptying, helping individuals feel full faster and longer.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 aids in the treatment tolerance with GLP-1 agonists. Nausea and hypophagia, two common adverse side effects of Semaglutide, have been shown to be significantly reduced when used in conjunction with Vitamin B12.
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How Semaglutide and B12 Work Together
GLP-1, produced in the small intestine, stimulates insulin secretion and inhibits glucagon secretion, lowering blood sugar levels. The treatment is generally well-tolerated and can be administered continuously without diminishing effects.
Important Considerations Before Starting Medication
It is crucial to disclose your complete medical history to your healthcare provider, including all prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and supplements. Women on birth control may need to use backup contraception.
Inform your provider if you have any of the following conditions:
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- History of thyroid disease or thyroid cancer
- Gallbladder disease or gallstones
- History of pancreatitis
- Diabetes, insulin, and non-insulin-dependent
- Mental health disorders and/or eating disorders
- Stomach or intestinal problems
- Vision concerns
The Role of Prescription Medication in Weight Loss
Many individuals find that diet and exercise alone are not enough to achieve their weight loss goals. Aesthetic medicine and prescription medications can assist in their weight loss efforts. Cape Family Medical Clinic offers a combination of prescription medications, expert guidance, and customized wellness plans.
Diet and Lifestyle During Treatment
While Semaglutide or Phentermine does not require a strict 500-calorie diet like hCG, reducing caloric intake is recommended for optimal results. Focus on healthy proteins and fats, avoid bad fats, processed foods, and refined sugars, and exercise weekly.
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A diet of 1200-1800 calories daily is encouraged, allowing for a more sustainable diet compared to the 500-calorie protocol of hCG.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
The initial appointment includes a consultation with a provider to review your medical history and qualifications. Vitals will be taken, along with a full lab panel, starting weight, BMI, and total body fat measurements. You will receive additional information and a 12-month wellness plan. Annual lab work is required at a cost of $55.
Additional Options for Weight Loss
Physicians Rehabilitation
Physicians Rehabilitation, with multiple locations in Southwest Florida, specializes in medical weight loss solutions to alleviate joint pain caused by excess weight. Their options include:
- Weight loss injections: Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, Tirzepatide, and Semaglutide.
- Vitamin injectables: B12, B Complex, LipoStat Plus, and Taurine.
Excess body weight puts added stress on your joints, leading to increased discomfort in the knees, back, hips, feet, and wrists. By reducing weight through medical weight loss, the aim is to alleviate joint pain and improve overall mobility.
Heartland Weight Loss Clinic
Heartland Weight Loss Clinic is known for its personalized care and comprehensive services. Patients choose Heartland for reasons such as:
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- Dr. LeGrand personally handles after-hours emergencies.
- In-office services like dietician visits and transnasal endoscopies.
- On-site dieticians for insurance-required visits.
Positive Reviews and Community Engagement
Cape Family Medical Clinic has received positive feedback for its quality care, friendly staff, and convenient services. Patients appreciate the welcoming environment, short wait times, and thorough approach to healthcare.