Semaglutide Weight Loss Treatment

What is semaglutide?

Semaglutide is part of a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists.  It increases insulin secretion and also acts on centers in the brain that regulate appetite.  It is important to use Semaglutide in conjunction with lifestyle intervention (healthy eating, consistent exercise, sleep hygiene, and stress management).  Semaglutide is administered as a once weekly subcutaneous injection.  It can decrease appetite and cravings, jumpstart weight loss, and improve blood glucose control.

How Does Semaglutide Work?

• Delays gastric emptying.  This means it slows down how quickly our stomach digests food and leads to a feeling of fullness and satisfaction with smaller meal portions.
• Slows intestinal motility so you will feel fuller longer after meals.
• Lowers blood sugars.
• Stimulates insulin secretion by the pancreas.

What to know before starting semaglutide:

• Semaglutide should be used with a reduced calorie meal plan and consistent physical activity.
• Semaglutide should not be used with other semaglutide-containing products or GLP-1 receptor agonists.
• It is not known if Semaglutide is safe and effective when taken with other prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal weight loss products.
• Semaglutide can decrease the efficacy of other prescription medications due to delayed gastric emptying.
• It is not known if Semaglutide can be used safely in people with a history of pancreatitis.
• It is not known if Semaglutide is safe and effective for use in children under 18 years of age.

Pre-Treatment:

A consultation is required to discuss patient goals and set realistic expectations. It is recommended to eat a healthy diet prior and throughout the treatment process.

Serious side effects are possible, including possible thyroid tumors including cancer.  Tell your healthcare provider if you get a lump or swelling of the neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath.  These may be symptoms of thyroid cancer.  In studies with rodents, Semaglutide and medications that work like Semaglutide caused thyroid tumors, including thyroid cancer.  It is not known if Semaglutide will cause thyroid tumors or a type of thyroid cancer called Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) in people.

Who can use Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is not recommended if you or any family have ever had a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MCT) or if you have an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2 (MEN 2). Those who have had a serious allergic reaction to Semaglutide or any of the ingredients in Semaglutide may not get Semaglutide treatment.