Semaglutide Weight Loss Shots: FAQs

Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) that mimics the action of the natural hormone GLP-1 in the body. GLP-1 is released by the intestines in response to food intake and helps regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin release and reducing glucagon secretion. Semaglutide is administered as an injectable medication.

We only prescribe Semaglutide for weight loss. However, it is also used to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Semaglutide is also being studied off-label for alcohol addiction and inflammatory conditions.

Semaglutide produces amazing weight loss results by moderating your digestive process and cravings. Specifically, it is responsible for the following effects:

1. Increased sensation of feeling full: Semaglutide acts on the GLP-1 receptors in the brain, specifically the hypothalamus, which regulates appetite and feelings of satiety. By activating these receptors, semaglutide induces a sense of fullness, leading to reduced appetite and decreased food intake.
2. Slower Gastric Emptying: GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide also slow down the rate at which the stomach empties its contents into the small intestine. This delay in gastric emptying can contribute to increased feelings of fullness and prolonged satisfaction after eating, further reducing food consumption.
3. Reduced Caloric Intake: The combination of increased satiety and slowed gastric emptying results in a decreased desire to eat, and a lower intake of calories overall.
4. Weight Set Point Regulation: Semaglutide may also have an impact on the body’s weight set point—the weight range that the body tends to maintain. By influencing the body’s regulatory systems, semaglutide helps shift the weight set point to a lower level, making it easier for some individuals to lose weight and maintain the new lower weight.

Semaglutide, like any medication, may cause side effects in some individuals. The side effects can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience them. These side effects are usually mild and may improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. We also can provide additional medications to treat them.
Common side effects of semaglutide may include:

1. Nausea
2. Vomiting
3. Diarrhea
4. Abdominal pain or discomfort
5. Loss of appetite
6. Headache
7. Fatigue
8. Constipation

No, there is no evidence to suggest that Semaglutide is addictive. Semaglutide is not classified as addictive substances, nor do they have any known properties that would lead to addiction or dependence.

Weight loss is a complex process influenced by various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and individual metabolism. For many people, maintaining weight loss over the long term can be challenging, regardless of the method used to achieve it – whether through lifestyle changes, medication, or other interventions.
When considering the use of Semaglutide for weight loss, it’s essential to work closely with a healthcare professional who can provide guidance and support throughout the weight loss journey. They can help design a comprehensive plan that includes not only the use of medication but also lifestyle changes, such as adopting a balanced diet, increasing physical activity, and establishing healthy habits.

Yes, Semaglutide can cause overdose if taken in excessive amounts. This medications is prescribed at specific doses based on individual needs and medical conditions. Taking more than the prescribed dose can lead to serious health consequences such as:

• Severe nausea and vomiting
• Severe diarrhea
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
• Dehydration
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
• Severe abdominal pain

If you suspect an overdose or experience any concerning symptoms after taking Semaglutide, seek immediate medical attention or visit the nearest emergency room.

No, Semaglutide is used off-label for weight loss and is provided by a special pharmacy that distributes from a separate supply than what is prescribed to patients with diabetes. The well known brand name version of Semaglutide is prescribed for people with diabetes.

No, Semaglutide is not available over the counter. It is a prescription drugs, meaning you cannot obtain them without a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

Yes. Semaglutide is generally safe to be used in combination with almost all other medications. They can also be combined with other appetite suppressants for maximum effects. Always inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking before starting Semaglutide, or any new medication.

It works extremely quickly! The effects on the moderation of appetite and digestion will be noticed within hours of receiving the injection. The average amount of weight a patient loses in the first month is around 10lbs. If your appetite is unchanged, you may need a higher dose to get the desired results.

There are no dietary restrictions but we encourage a healthy, well-balanced diet while being on Semaglutide. While you do not need to regulate which types of food you eat on these drugs, there are some considerations for how you eat. We would recommend the following:

1. Consistent Meal Timing: Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonists, which can affect how the body responds to food. It’s important to have regular meal times and not skip meals, as this can help maintain stable blood sugar levels and minimize the risk of hypoglycemia.
2. Balanced Meals: Aim for balanced meals that include a variety of nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. A balanced diet can help support overall health and provide essential nutrients.
3. Carbohydrate Intake: Carbohydrates can significantly impact blood sugar levels. Work with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to determine an appropriate carbohydrate intake that matches your individual needs and medication regimen.
4. Avoid Skipping Medications: Take Semaglutide as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Skipping doses may lead to fluctuating blood sugar levels.
5. Alcohol Intake: Be cautious with alcohol consumption, as it can affect blood sugar levels and may interact with certain diabetes medications. Discuss alcohol consumption with your healthcare provider to determine what is safe and appropriate for you.
6. Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels as advised by your healthcare provider. This can help you and your doctor make necessary adjustments to your medication and dietary plan as needed.
7. Hydration: Stay adequately hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can affect blood sugar levels, so it’s important to drink fluids regularly.

Semaglutide is not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. The medications is a pregnancy category B, which means there may be some animal studies showing no risk to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
It’s essential for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals to work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their condition safely. During pregnancy, blood sugar control is crucial for both the health of the mother and for the developing baby and thus it is not recommended, since both drugs affect blood sugar levels.

The duration of and dosage of treatment with Semaglutide may vary based on individual health factors as well as the response to the medication. You can work closely with our medical staff to ensure that the treatment plan is tailored to your specific health needs and goals.