Medical Weight Loss
Losing weight is a challenge for most people, especially as we age. Along with a healthy diet and physical exercise, medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide may help in weight reduction.
Semaglutide
Semaglutide, a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) agonist, is a physiologic hormone that suppresses appetite and slows down digestion. GLP-1 agonists have been widely used for years to treat those with Type 2 diabetes. More recently, GLP-1 agonists were FDA approved for weight loss in obese and overweight individuals. Administered subcutaneously once weekly, semaglutide may help people lose 10-20% of their current body weight.
Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide contains a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) agonist and a GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) agonist, which are both physiologic hormones that aid in suppressing appetite and slowing down digestion. This dual-agonist medication is the first of it’s kind, recently FDA approved for weight loss in obese and overweight individuals.
FAQs about Medical Weight Loss
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Semaglutide or tirzepatide is not known to interact with any medications. If you have a history of thyroid cancer or if you have endocrine growths or tumors, you are not a candidate. If you are pregnant or nursing, you are not a candidate.
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Semaglutide and tirzepatide are not addictive and there is no danger in suddenly stopping the medications.
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You can be on semaglutide or tirzepatide for as long as you desire, however, once you have achieved your goal weight, your health care provider will discuss maintenance options.
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Semaglutide or tirzepatide is a once weekly injection administered by you or your healthcare provider. Your dose is based on your progress and response to the medication.
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Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, stomach bloating, constipation, acid reflux. Side effects usually resolve within a few weeks. Very rare side effects include pancreatitis, gall stones, and intestinal blockage.
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Usually, it takes 2 weeks to 1 month to start seeing weight loss.
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There is a monthly fee which covers your visits and medication. Your health care provider will discuss pricing with you.