Semaglutide has emerged as a groundbreaking medication in the realm of weight loss and weight management, particularly gaining traction in Atlanta, Georgia. This article delves into the specifics of semaglutide, its benefits, how it works, who is a good candidate, and what to expect when considering this treatment option in Atlanta.
Understanding Semaglutide
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analog. As a GLP-1 analog, it mimics a natural hormone in the body to regulate blood sugar levels and curb appetite. This dual action makes Semaglutide highly effective in promoting significant weight loss and improving overall health. It was initially approved to manage type 2 diabetes, but clinical studies revealed its significant impact on weight loss, leading to its use as a weight management tool.
How Semaglutide Works
Semaglutide works through several mechanisms to promote weight loss:
- Appetite Reduction: Semaglutide affects the part of the brain that is responsible for feeling hungry, helping you feel satiety longer after eating and reduces the desire to snack. By creating a feeling of fullness that sets in earlier than average, there will be less desire to continue to eat or snack. Nonetheless, it also sends signals to the brain telling the body it is full and to stop eating food.
- Slowing Digestion: Ozempic slows down the process of gastric emptying. Food stays in the stomach longer and you feel satiety for a longer period of time.
- Decreased Sugar Production in the Liver: Ozempic reduces the amount of sugar the liver releases into the bloodstream, helping to stabilize sugar levels.
- Increased postprandial insulin secretion
- Decreased food cravings
- Delays gastric emptying
- Associated with decreased appetite, by potentially increasing leptin sensitivity
- Increased satiety
- Stimulates insulin secretion and inhibits glucagon secretion, thereby lowering blood sugar.
Shorter-acting agonists of the GLP-1 receptor are particularly effective at lowering post-meal glucose spikes, whereas longer-acting GLP-1 agonists have more balanced effects on lowering post-meal and fasting glucose levels.
Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide
Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide works as a dual GLP-1 agonist and GIP agonist to offer benefits like GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide. It is given as a once-a-week injectable. Tirzepatide is marketed under the brand name Mounjaro.
Read also: Transformations with Ozempic
Both semaglutide and tirzepatide work to reduce food intake and increase insulin sensitivity. However, tirzepatide is a dual agonist that targets both the GLP-1 and glucagon receptors, while semaglutide is a single GLP-1 receptor agonist.
Benefits of Semaglutide for Weight Loss
Semaglutide offers a range of benefits beyond just weight loss:
- Significant Weight Loss: Patients can lose up to 15% of their body weight within a year. In clinical trials, the results showed patients lost, on average, 15 percent of their body weight. Simply put, you can lose up to 20 pounds per month.
- Improved Glycemic Control: Semaglutide was initially approved as a treatment method for improving glycemic control in patients with Type 2 diabetes.
- Cardiovascular Benefits: Studies have shown that people who take semaglutide experience reduced blood pressure, lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL), and increased good cholesterol (HDL).
- Other potential benefits: Weight Loss, Neuroprotective, Improved Fertility, Treatment of PCOS, Smoking Cessation, Cardiovascular Benefits.
Who is a Good Candidate?
The best candidates for Semaglutide are individuals who meet specific health criteria and are ready to make lifestyle changes. Typically, candidates have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
It’s essential for candidates to be willing to commit to regular self-injections and follow a reduced-calorie diet along with increased physical activity. A consultation with a healthcare professional is necessary to determine eligibility and ensure that Semaglutide is a suitable option based on individual health history and goals.
Who Should Avoid Semaglutide?
While Ozempic is an effective option for many, there are certain conditions and health issues that make it unsuitable for some individuals. If any of the following apply to you, Ozempic may not be the right choice: History of Pancreatitis, Kidney Problems, Diabetic Retinopathy, Thyroid Tumors.
Read also: Comprehensive guide: Tirzepatide and Semaglutide for weight management
Semaglutide Treatment in Atlanta
In Atlanta, semaglutide is available through various medical weight loss clinics and healthcare providers. These programs often include:
- Medical Supervision: Supervised by medical professionals, Semaglutide Weight Loss can increase your energy, boost your confidence, and lead your body to rapid weight loss.
- Customized Treatment Plans: Receive a customized treatment plan tailored to your body and goals.
- Lifestyle Guidance: The treatment works best when used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and regular exercise.
- Ongoing Support: Our caring team will guide you through every step, from your first consultation to your exciting results.
How to Use Semaglutide + B12
Semaglutide + B12 is applied as a subcutaneous injection, which is most commonly dosed at 0.25mL(0.5mg) to 0.5mL(1mg) once weekly. This dosing may be increased to 1mL(2mg) once weekly after one month of treatment if needed. This medication is generally well-tolerated and can be dosed continuously without breaking treatment with no diminishing effects.
Initial week to assess tolerance, women starting at 0.15 mL (equivalent to 0.3mg), and only increase to 0.25mL if well tolerated. Otherwise, if vomiting or excessive nausea occurs at 0.15mL, just have them stay there until they get adjusted to the therapy.
What Tests Are Needed Before Starting Ozempic?
Before beginning treatment with Ozempic, several essential tests are required to ensure that the medication is safe and suitable for your health needs. These tests provide important insights into your body’s current state and help your doctor make informed decisions. A1C Blood Tests for Glucose and Hemoglobin Levels, Kidney Function Tests, Cardiac Evaluation.
Procedure and Administration
Semaglutide is administered through self-injections, which must be performed routinely, Semaglutide is available in both injectable and tablet forms. Semaglutide is administered once a week using a syringe pen. It is usual to start with a low dose of 0.25 mg for the first 4 weeks to get your body used to the drug and reduce the risk of side effects. During this period, there may be no significant changes in weight or sugar levels; this is a preparatory stage. After 4 weeks, the dose is increased to 0.5 mg, and at this stage the drug begins to have a therapeutic effect. If necessary, the doctor can increase the dose to 1 or 2 mg, depending on the body's response. The treatment regimen can be adjusted individually. If the side effects are expressed too strongly, the doctor can extend the initial dosage stage or slowly increase the dose. In patients with comorbidities, changes in the scheme are possible. The main thing is to adhere to the schedule and not to miss injections, as this affects the effectiveness of treatment. Ozempik can be administered at any time of the day, with or without food.
Read also: Semaglutide Without Diet Changes
You can get your injections, which are usually done in the thigh, upper arm, or abdomen, on the same day and time weekly so that it’s easy to stick to a routine. And you can take the injections with or without food.
Potential Side Effects
The most commonly reported side effects to include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and constipation. The risk of serious side effects increases in patients with hypoglycemia, kidney problems, and risk of allergic reactions.
Side effects most often occur in the initial stages of treatment, when the body is just getting used to the drug. Over time, many of them become less severe. Some side effects, such as nausea or diarrhea, may be temporary and go away after the dose is increased. In rare cases, there are more serious complications that require a doctor's supervision.
Side effects can include diarrhea, nausea, constipation, headache, fatigue, indigestion, low-blood sugar, flatulence, and reflux.
Semaglutide Side Effect Frequency
| Side Effect | Frequency | When It Occurs | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nausea | 16%-20% | Early stages | Usually decreases over time. Common side effect. |
| Vomiting | 5%-9% | Early stages | Occurs during the first few weeks. Decreases with adaptation. |
| Diarrhea | 8%-9% | Early stages | Resolves over time. |
| Stomach Pain | 6%-7% | Early stages | Can vary in intensity. |
| Constipation | 3%-5% | Early stages | Resolves with continued treatment. |
| Gastroparesis (Reduced Motility) | Rare | Long-term use | May occur in severe cases of diabetes or with prolonged use. |
| Headache | 32% | Intermittently | Often resolves without intervention. |
| Low Blood Sugar | Common in diabetes | All stages | Important to monitor blood sugar during treatment. |
| Pancreatitis | Rare | Intermittently | Requires immediate consultation with a doctor. |
| Progression of Retinal Diseases Linked to diabetes | Ongoing | Regular eye checkups recommended. | |
| Allergic Reactions | Varies | At any dosage | Consult a doctor if symptoms occur. |
| Insomnia | Occasional | All stages | May occur periodically; discuss with your doctor. |
| High Blood Pressure | Rare | Ongoing | Requires monitoring if dosage is increased. |
| Suicidal Thoughts | Under EMA investigation | Rare | Further research needed. |
| Hair Loss | Linked to rapid weight loss | In some cases | May be temporary; depends on individual response. |
| Bowel Obstruction | Listed in 2023 | Rare | Requires immediate medical attention. |
Maintaining Weight Loss
Weight loss with Ozempic is a gradual process. To maintain the results, continuous treatment is essential. This isn’t a quick fix, but a sustainable approach to managing your weight for the long haul. A 2024 study showed that people who took Ozempic for four years were able to maintain a weight loss of 10%. This proves that long-term use not only helps you lose weight, but also maintain the results. The conclusion is simple: to maintain the weight achieved, it is important to take Ozempic regularly and for a long period of time, just like any other remedy to control chronic diseases.
Part of semaglutide’s success in long-term weight management is how it helps you become more aware of portion sizes to help you establish healthier eating habits to keep the weight off once your treatments end.
Accessing Semaglutide in Atlanta
- Prescription Requirement: Ozempic is a prescription-only medication; therefore, it’s essential to avoid unregulated or counterfeit sources. Always ensure you are receiving legitimate, safe treatment from a healthcare provider.
- Insurance Coverage: Ozempic is often not covered by insurance when prescribed solely for weight loss. However, some insurance plans may cover it for patients using it to manage type 2 diabetes. It's worth checking with your provider for specific coverage options.
- Compounding Pharmacies: Some pharmacies may offer compounded versions of semaglutide, which can sometimes be more affordable.
Can I Buy Ozempic Without a Prescription?
No, Ozempic cannot be purchased without a prescription. If you come across offers to buy Ozempic online without a prescription, proceed with caution-these products may be counterfeit or contain harmful chemicals that can seriously affect your health. Additionally, be wary of claims suggesting that over-the-counter supplements like berberine can replace Ozempic. These supplements do not have the same medically proven effects as Ozempic, and they won’t provide the same benefits as the prescription medication from your doctor.
Semaglutide vs. Other Weight Loss Medications
Semaglutide and phentermine are both prescribed for weight loss. However, semaglutide is an injectable medication that controls appetite whereas phentermine is an oral pill that works as a stimulant to increase metabolism and reduce calorie intake. While phentermine is typically used for short-term weight loss, semaglutide is usually prescribed for long-term use.
Semaglutide vs. Most other weight-loss medications provide a five to 10 percent weight-loss effect; with semaglutide, that result can be upwards of 20 percent. Another distinguishing factor that sets semaglutide apart from other medications is that it is an injection rather than an oral medication. A weekly shot is much easier to perform than remembering to take a pill daily. While semaglutide is a bit pricier than oral options, they also don’t result in as much weight loss as semaglutide.
Additional Considerations
- Cost: Due to the highly customizable approach to weight loss, pricing will vary depending on each patient’s individual needs.
- Consultation Fee: Your $250 consultation fee includes the health assessment, labs, and coaching with a nurse.
- Switching Providers: For those wishing to continue their weight loss journey with The Luxe Medspa, we welcome you to schedule as a new patient. We will determine where you are leaving off with your current program and facilitate your transition into our care.
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