Semaglutide (Weight Loss)
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Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analog that was approved in 2020 as a treatment method for improving glycemic control in patients with Type 2 diabetes. Semaglutide shows great promise for patients who are having difficulty losing weight. Studies have demonstrated that Semaglutide reduced appetite, improved control of eating, and reduced food cravings in addition to improved glycemic control. The greatest benefits weight loss benefits were observed when Semaglutide is used in combination with lifestyle changes, such as improved diet and consistent exercise.
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GLP-1 is a hormone produced in the small intestine that stimulates insulin secretion and inhibits glucagon secretion, thereby lowering blood sugar. Semaglutide + B12 has demonstrated beneficial effects on glycemia, in addition to a host of other benefits.
Shorter acting agonists of the GLP-1 receptor are particularly effective at lowering post-meal glucose spikes, whereas longer-acting GLP-1 agonists have more balanced effects on lowering post-meal and fasting glucose levels.
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Semaglutide + B12 is applied as a subcutaneous injection which is dosed based upon your body composition and goal weight. You are given weekly injections, where the dosage will gradually increase as your body becomes tolerant.
This medication is generally well-tolerated and can be dosed continuously without breaking treatment with no diminishing effects.
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Increased postprandial insulin secretion
Decreased food cravings
Delays gastric emptying
Associated with decreased appetite, by potentially increasing leptin sensitivity
Increased satiety
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On June 4, 2021 the FDA approved Semaglutide for weight loss. The Food & Drug Administration approved Wegovy (semaglutide) injection (2.4mg once weekly) for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition (such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol), for use in addition to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. This under-the-skin injection is the first approved drug for chronic weight management in adults with general obesity or overweight since 2014.
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The most commonly reported side effects to include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and constipation. The risk of serious side effects increases in patients with hypoglycemia, kidney problems, and risk of allergic reactions.
*Medical or Family history of medullary thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, or MEN2 (a rare genetic endocrine tumor disorder) are not permitted to take Semaglutide.