Weight Loss Clinic
Semaglutide
Semaglutide, a potent glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist initially prescribed for type 2 diabetes, now stands as a groundbreaking treatment addressing both diabetes and obesity. Administered weekly via injections, it not only effectively regulates blood sugar levels but also induces significant weight loss. This multifaceted approach offers a comprehensive solution for individuals grappling with the challenges of type 2 diabetes and obesity, making Semaglutide a remarkable and versatile therapeutic option at the intersection of metabolic health and weight management.
If you are interested in finding out more about GLP-1 medications, you will initially make a consultation appointment with Dr. Ridgway or one of our Nurse Practitioners to determine if you are a good candidate for these injections. You will be provided with a month’s supply of weekly injections and return to the clinic monthly for evaluation and refills! Injections will be continued until goal weight is achieved.
Trizepatide
Tirzepatide, a cutting-edge dual GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist, signifies a transformative breakthrough in type 2 diabetes and obesity treatment. Administered weekly through injections, it not only effectively manages blood sugar levels but also stands out for its remarkable weight loss benefits. As the next-generation GLP-1, tirzepatide represents an innovative approach at the forefront of metabolic health solutions. Its dual-action mechanism and proven efficacy make it a versatile therapeutic option, demonstrating unprecedented promise for individuals seeking simultaneous management of type 2 diabetes and obesity, offering comprehensive care and improved overall metabolic well-being.
FAQs
What is Semaglutide/Trizepatide?
Semaglutide and Trizepatide are injectable medications which, when used in combination with diet and exercise, were initially created to help with blood sugar control in type 2 diabetics. Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists, which mimic the hormone GLP-1 in your body to lower blood sugar IeveIs after you've eaten a meal. The evolution of GLP-1 agonists has led to amazing results in weight loss. Dr. Ridgway began offering weight loss injections to aid her surgical patients in reaching surgical BMI requirements, but the more recent studies and incredible results that people have been experiencing while using GLP-1 agonists led us to start offering it on a broader scale!
What is the hormone GLP-1?
Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) is a hormone that causes huge effects on the regulation of blood sugar by stimulating glucose-dependent insulin secretion. Insulin is a hormone that promotes sugar uptake by the cells, stores sugar as glycogen, promotes the building of fat, and signals the body to build skeletal muscle. In addition, GLP-1 inhibits glucagon release (which slows down the release of sugar into the blood so that you burn more fat), slows down gastric emptying (makes you feel full), and lowers the desire for food intake (because you feel full).
How does Semaglutide work for weight loss?
GLP-1 agonists like Semaglutide or Trizepatide help to control your blood sugar, but people taking them also tend to lose weight. GLP-1, the key hormone involved, slows down how fast your stomach empties food (called gastric emptying). And in addition to causing your pancreas to release insulin, Semaglutide also blocks a hormone that causes your liver to release sugar (glucagon). Together, these functions can help you feel less hungry, causing you to eat less food and lose more weight.
How long does it take to lose weight on Semaglutide or Trizepatide?
With Semaglutide or Trizepatide, you will slowly work your way up to the target dose at which time you will see the most amount of weight loss. This was the case in the clinical trials, where participants had their dose adjusted until they reached 2.5 mg dose if needed. In the phase 3 trial that measured outcomes at 20 weeks, most participants were able to reach the full dose and also lost weight as their dose was increased. They saw additional weight loss over the remaining 48 weeks at the full dose. It is important to keep in mind that weight loss can take time, and you'll see the best results when you are using your medication in combination with a healthy diet and exercise. Sometimes the medication may not work for you, or you may not be able to tolerate the full dose due to side effects in which case your practitioner will provide additional options or change the protocol to better suit your individual needs.
Is Semaglutide or Trizepatide a type of insulin?
No, Semaglutide is not a type of insulin or a substitute for insulin. Semaglutide does stimulate your pancreas to release insulin when glucose (sugar) is present. Because Semaglutide relies upon your body's own insulin to have this effect, Semaglutide isn't used when your pancreas can't make insulin, such as in patients with type-1 diabetes.
Is Semaglutide or Trizepatide a stimulant?
No, Semaglutide and Trizepatide are not a stimulant. While other weight loss medications, like phentermine, have stimulating effects that help curb your appetite, Semaglutide and Trizepatide work differently (see above).
Is Semaglutide and Trizepatide safe?
Yes. Semaglutide and Trizepatide are considered to be safe and effective when used as indicated. However, safe doesn't mean there aren't risks. Semaglutide also carries a boxed warning about thyroid C-cell tumors occurring in rodents (with unknown risk in humans). Semaglutide shouldn't be used if you or your family have a history of certain thyroid cancers. Semaglutide should not be used in people with type-1 diabetes or a history of pancreatitis. Semaglutide should be used cautiously for people on other blood sugar lowering medications.
Is Semaglutide or Trizepatide covered by my insurance?
No. Semaglutide is not covered by insurance for people who are not diabetic type-2. However, you can get this medication prescribed as part of this Weight Loss Program through Ridgway Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa.
What are the known side effects of Semaglutide and Trizepatide?
The common side effects of Semaglutide are:
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Constipation
Effects like nausea and diarrhea being the most common.
Are there any significant health risks associated with using Semaglutide or Trizepatide?
Yes. Semaglutide may cause rare side effects, including:
• Prolonged vomiting. Patients on Semaglutide can develop gastroparesis where the stomach stops moving, and patients vomit considerably. This can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Stop using Semaglutide and call your healthcare provider right away if you have vomiting that persists more than a day.
• Inflammation of your pancreas (pancreatitis). Stop using Semaglutide and call your healthcare provider right away if you have severe pain in your stomach area (abdomen) that will not go away, with or without vomiting. You may feel the pain from your abdomen to your back.
• Changes in vision. Tell your healthcare provider if you have changes in vision during treatment with Semaglutide
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Your risk for getting low blood sugar may be higher if you use Semaglutide with another medicine that can cause low blood sugar, such as a sulfonylurea or insulin. Signs and symptoms of low blood sugar may include: dizziness or lightheadedness, blurred vision, anxiety, irritability or mood changes, sweating, slurred speech, hunger, confusion or drowsiness, shakiness, weakness, headache, fast heartbeat, and feeling jittery.
• Kidney problems (kidney failure). In people who have kidney problems, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting may cause a loss of fluids (dehydration), which may cause kidney problems to get worse. It is important for you to drink fluids to help reduce your chance of dehydration.
• Serious allergic reactions. Stop using Semaglutide and get medical help right away if you have any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat; problems breathing or swallowing; severe rash or itching; fainting or feeling dizzy; or very rapid heartbeat.