How GLP-1 Medication Works
Giving you the how, what, when, and why of the newest weight loss, doctor-prescribed, medicine.
Medicine You Can Count On
The doctor-prescribed, all-natural, weekly treatment is a custom-blended medication that is individually formulated for each patient.
Every time we eat, a specific hormone is automatically released in our body that gives us a feeling of fullness. The medicine targets the brain and mimics that full feeling, plus reduces appetite, slows stomach emptying, and ultimately decreases your caloric intake.
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Your body also has a "set point" which is the number on the scale that your weight normally hovers around. The treatment plan creates a new, lower set point after you reach your target weight.
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Approximately 70% of American adults are obese or overweight. Obesity or being overweight is a serious health issue. Being overweight and obese puts you at a greater risk for many diseases, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, and is linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer.
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Losing 5% to 10% of body weight through diet and exercise has been associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease in adults who are either overweight or obese.
About GLP-1 Medications
This is a glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) analog. GLP-1 is a hormone, produced in the small intestine, that stimulates insulin secretion and inhibits glucagon secretion, thereby lowering blood sugar.​
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Studies show that semaglutide reduces appetite, improves eating control, and reduces food cravings, in addition to improving glycemic control.​
Why GLP-1 Treatments?
What is a GLP-1 Injection?
Excess weight is largely a result of eating habits. With busy lifestyles, everyday stress, and our modern food supply, not to mention hormones and genetics, it can be hard to keep the weight off.
This under-the-skin injection is the first approved drug for chronic weight management, in adults who are either overweight or obese.
What are the Benefits of GLP-1s?
They help to control your appetite and cravings, setting you up for success. Benefits may vary, but you may experience: weight loss, improved fertility, smoking cessation, cardiovascular improvement, and neuroprotective treatment of PCOS.
Meaningful Results After Weight Loss May Include
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Feeling better and looking better​
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Reversal of certain health conditions
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Better relationships with family, friends, and co-workers
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Enhanced emotional health, mental clarity, and improved mood
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Lower blood pressure
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Lower triglycerides
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Less risk of heart disease
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Improved insulin resistance
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Lowered risk for multiple cancers
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Less need for prescription drugs​
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More energy
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Enhanced immune system
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Improved mobility and reduced pain
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Higher self-esteem
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Improved eating habits
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Enhanced sex life and less erectile dysfunction
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Fewer headaches
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Balanced hormones
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Clearer skin
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Better sleep
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How much weight can I lose on GLP-1 medication?Results do vary, but in a 68-week medical study of 1,961 adults living with obesity or excess weight with a related medical problem, adults lost ~35 lbs (or ~15% body weight). People taking placebo lost an average of 6 lbs (or ~2.5% body weight). The average starting weight for both groups was ~232 lbs.
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How quickly can I expect to lose the weight?There is no set time for you to begin seeing results because people respond differently to medicine.
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Are there any side effects to GLP-1 medications?The side effects that you may experience may include: nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, stomach (abdomen) pain, headache, tiredness (fatigue), upset stomach, dizziness, feeling bloated, belching, gas, stomach flu, and heartburn. If you are having any side effects that are bothersome, tell your health care provider.
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Am I able to travel with my medicine?For sure! When traveling by air it's recommended to carry your pen in your carry-on as it may freeze in the baggage compartment below the plane. Check with your airline to see if they have specific baggage rules.
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Can I take it at any time of the day?Yes, it's recommended that you take it on the same day every week at the most convenient time for you.
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Can I change the day I take it?You can change the day of the week you take it as long as your last dose was given 2 or more days before.
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Does my insurance cover the weight loss program?We do not accept insurance for these medications.
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How do I dispose of the pen?Do not throw the pen away in your household trash. Instead, use an FDA-cleared sharps disposal container or a sturdy household container with a tight-fitting lid, like a heavy-duty plastic container.
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What do I do if I miss a dose?Don't worry if you miss a dose and the next scheduled dose is more than 2 days away (48 hours), take the missed dose as soon as possible. If you miss a dose and the next scheduled dose is less than 2 days away, don't administer the dose. Wait until your next scheduled dose. If you miss doses for more than 2 weeks, call your health care provider to talk about how to restart your treatment. You can take your next dose on the regularly scheduled day.
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What do I do if the liquid in my pen isn't clear?Your medicine should always be clear and colorless, if it is not, PLEASE DO NOT USE! Contact us immediately for a replacement.
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Do I need to eat before or after taking my medicine?That is up to you! You can take your medicine with or without food. However, it can decrease the feeling of nausea and GI upset if you do take the medication after eating a meal.