Semaglutide was initially developed to manage diabetes. This medication is now FDA-approved for weight management and works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1, which regulates appetite and food intake. You’ll feel fuller for longer and with fewer calories when taking semaglutide. The lower calorie intake leads to weight loss and helps you become more aware of your eating habits as your body gently adjusts to healthier portions.

A 68-week clinical study on the effectiveness of semaglutide showed very impressive weight loss outcomes: - Half of the participants lost 15% of their body weight  - About one-third of participants lost 20% of their body weight  - The average total body weight loss was 14.6%

The starting dose of semaglutide is typically 0.25 mg once a week for the first four weeks, followed by incremental increases that may reach 2.4 mg. The dosages may vary based on patient needs. Gradually increasing the dosage to an optimal level balances effectiveness while minimizing potential side effects as your body adjusts to the medication.

The duration of your semaglutide treatments depends on your individual goals, how well your body tolerates the medication, and medical guidance. Many patients achieve their health and wellness goals in as little as 3 months, while others need more time to reach the desired weight. Keep in mind this is not an easy button medication and factors such as lifestyle and diet play a crucial role. Our clinic will guide you on these factors as well.

Semaglutide is generally well-tolerated, with the most common side effects including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, heartburn, and burping. These effects are typically mild and resolve as your body becomes accustomed to the medication.

Our patients can be self-administered at home. We will confirm that you feel confident with the quick self-injections at your visit. We recommend alternating injection sites between your abdomen, thighs, and upper arms to prevent tenderness.

You are likely a good candidate for weight loss injections if you are a relatively healthy adult with a BMI of 27 or greater. We would be happy to meet with you to evaluate your needs and determine if you would benefit from our medical weight loss program.