Weight Loss

What is semaglutide?

Semaglutide is an injectable glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist that is administered once weekly for obesity.

How does it work?

GLP-1 is an incretin hormone that plays a role in your appetite and digestion. Incretins are hormones released by your small intestine after you've eaten a meal to help lower your blood sugar by triggering insulin and blocking other sources of sugar. It delays gastric emptying, meaning it slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach. The results of these actions causes you to feel full which decreases your appetite, causing you to lose weight. Medications like GLP-1 agonists are referred to as incretin mimetics since they "mimic" these effects. 

How to administer?

You will give yourself the injection once a week, on the same day each week. Semaglutide is injected just under the skin (subcutaneously) in your abdomen.

How will I know my dose?

We will provide you with your dosing guidelines as well as all the necessary supplies. 

What are common side effects?

Gastrointestinal side effects tend to happen most frequently when using semaglutide- the most common being nausea, constipation and vomiting. You may experience these effects more strongly as we increase your dose. Additional side effects can include: stomach pain, indigestion and bloating. 

What are the contraindications?

1. Medullary thyroid cancer, thyroid cancer and C-cell tumors 
2. Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2
3. Pancreatitis
4. Renal Failure
5. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
6. Allergy to GLP-1 agonist
7. Alcoholism
8. Pregnancy/Breastfeeding
9. Use precaution with: hypoglycemia, gallbladder disease, diabetic retinopathy, renal insufficiency, depression, schizophrenia, suicidal ideations.