Semaglitude (Wegovy) is an FDA-approved chronic weight management injection in overweight or obese individuals. At Stellar Skin and Laser, we offer practical, long-term weight loss solutions such as Semaglitude.
Semaglitude has been used as a medication to treat type 2 diabetes since 2005 by regulating the body’s insulin levels. In 2014, the well-researched synthetic form of naturally occurring hormone for metabolism and insulin management was approved as an effective, safe weight loss solution.
How It Works
Semaglitude is a glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1 receptor agonist) that may work as a naturally occurring hormone by signaling the brain to regulate digestion and appetite control. The peptide is released into the bloodstream to:
- Slow intestinal motility
- Decrease appetite leading to feeling fuller after smaller meal portions
- Stimulate insulin production by the pancreas
- Lower blood sugar levels
Ideal Candidates
Semaglitude is ideal and effective for people of all ages (over 18), gender, and background. It works best when you embrace a healthy lifestyle and maintain a healthy weight. Being obese or overweight is a health concern that can put you at risk of chronic diseases such as hypertension, sleep apnea, and heart conditions.
Semaglitude is indicated for chronic weight management for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 27kg/m2 or greater and at least one weight-related condition (such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension) with a BMI of 30kg/m2 or greater. You can still benefit from Semaglitude even if you do not have diabetes.
However, Semaglitude is not suitable for people who are:
- Allergic reaction to Semaglitude or any of its ingredients
- Diabetic retinopathy (eye damage)
- Pregnant or nursing mothers
- Chronic kidney disease, pancreatitis, or thyroid cancer
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2
- History of suicidal thoughts and depression or mental health problems
- Trying to get pregnant (you should stop two months before you start trying to get pregnant)
The best way to determine if you are an ideal candidate for Semaglitude is by scheduling a consultation with Stellar Skin and Laser.
How it is administered
Semaglitude is a prescription injection administered under the skin once a week, preferably on the same day and time. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage for you, depending on your body type and medical history. Typically, the first dosage is 0.2, which will gradually be increased after four weeks as your doctor monitors your progress.
Unlike other weight loss medications, Semaglitude is not a stimulant and does not rely on high-risk mechanisms that can harm your overall health. When using Semaglitude, ensure you routinely exercise and maintain a balanced diet, calorie restriction, and behavioral changes for the best weight loss results as your doctor recommends. If you consistently exercise, diet, and maintain routine doses of Semaglitude injections, you can decrease body fat by 10% to 16%. Avoid overeating to maintain the newly acquired weight.
Semaglitude should not be used with other products containing GLP-1 receptor agonists, other weight loss products (including prescription drugs), over-the-counter medications, or herbal products.
Semaglitude Benefits
Semaglitude has several benefits to the body, including:
- Decreased insulin resistance
- Lowers inflammation
- Increased energy levels
- Improved cardiovascular function
- Reduces liver fat
- Decreased arterial stiffness
- Helps stop smoking
- More effective than other weight loss medications
- Long-term weight management
When to Expect Results
Results vary from person to person, and you may begin losing weight 6 to 8 weeks after treatment. When you reach the full dosage at 9 to 16 weeks, you may lose 1 to 3 pounds a week.
Semaglitude Side Effects
Some patients report having some side effects when they first start using Semaglitude, but the effects wear off as they get used to it. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal in nature because Semaglitude acts directly on the gastrointestinal system. Despite the side effects, Semaglitude is still safe for use and has fewer effects than other weight loss medications.
Your doctor will start with a small dosage and then increase it gradually to avoid any adverse side effects. Since the dosage is slowly increased over time, the weight loss is gradual rather than rapid.
Even though they are rare, some of the side effects include:
- Nausea
- Stomach cramps or pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Heartburn
- Vomiting
- Gas
- Lack of appetite
- Headache
- Indigestion (dyspepsia)
- Fatigue
The side effects are temporary and can range from mild to severe; most people do not have serious side effects. In case of any adverse side effects such as vision changes, mood changes, fast heartbeat, or low blood sugar, contact your doctor as soon as possible so they can adjust your dosage.
At Stellar Skin and Laser, we want you to feel good and help you lose weight for your overall health with Semaglitude. Contact us for more information or schedule an appointment.