SEMAGLUTIDE FOR WEIGHT LOSS
WHAT IS SEMAGLUTIDE?
Semaglutide is a ONCE weekly subcutaneous injection, that is FDA approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management.
AM I GOOD CANDIDATE FOR SEMAGLUTIDE?
Semaglutide is best for adults who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. It can also be a good option for those with a BMI of 27 and higher with coexisting high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea or cardiovascular disease.
HOW LONG DOES SEMAGLUTIDE TAKE TO WORK?
Some patients notice results in the first 8 weeks, but most patients will begin to see results around 12 weeks. In a randomized clinical trial of 175 overweight patients without diabetes, the average total body weight loss was 5.9% at 3 months and 10.9% at 6 months.
COMMON SIDE EFFECTS SEEN WITH SEMAGLUTIDE
Nausea is the most common side effect seen. While taking Semaglutide injections patients are started on the lowest dose and increased every 4 weeks as tolerated. Increasing the dose too quickly increases your risk for nausea. A less common side effect is increased fatigue. This can be caused by an over suppression of appetite and lack of energy related to too few calories. Energy often improves with adequate calories and hydration. Other times a dose reduction is necessary. Steady weight loss with minimal to no side effects is a good indicator the dose is appropriate. Remember the goal is for slow and steady weight loss. Losing weight too rapidly can be a shock to the system.
HOW DOES SEMAGLUTIDE WORK?
Semaglutide works by mimicking glucagon like peptide-1 (GPL-1), a naturally occurring hormone in the body. It stimulates insulin secretion allowing cells to take up glucose from the blood stream thus lowering blood sugar levels. At the same time, it increases insulin sensitivity, and decreases inappropriate release of glucagon after meals. It slows digestion, decreases cravings and controls how the brain processes appetite which makes you feel fuller longer leading to weight loss.
Remember there is no magic pill or injection. To get the best, longest lasting results Semaglutide injections should be combined with diet and lifestyle changes. I will work with you and teach you how to balance your diet to minimize insulin resistance. Together with a few simple adjustments you can learn how to maintain your weight loss and reset your set point weight.
INERESTED IN SEMAGULTIDE?
If you are looking to lose weight and want to see if you are a good candidate for Semaglutide , please call Renaissance Health Centre at 702-258-7860 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Nicole Hujer.