Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 analogue originally used for patients with diabetes. Semaglutide has been around since 2017 and was approved for treating diabetes. It has now been released as a weight loss medication. Semaglutide helps control appetite and reduce blood sugar spikes. Semaglutide is a once a week tiny injection administered at home.
Semaglutide injection is in a class of medications called incretin mimetics. It works by helping the pancreas to release the right amount of insulin when blood sugar levels are high. For example, when you eat carbohydrates, the pancreas will release the correct amount of insulin when blood sugar levels are high which helps avoid large spikes. Insulin helps move sugar from the blood into other body tissues where it is used for energy. Semaglutide slows gastric emptying which allows food to stay in the stomach longer, allowing you to stay full for longer periods of time. Semaglutide also works to reduce appetite and control over-eating.
In general, patients seem to have side effects less frequently because we start at a low dose and titrate up. However, some mild side effects can occur within the first few weeks such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or heartburn. We can prescribe an anti-nausea medication if you experience side effects. After a few weeks on the medication, most side effects resolve.
Yes, we can split the dosage into twice a week injections which normally eliminates side effects and gives longer appetite control.
Yes, Semaglutide is being used in patients who are not diabetic for weight loss.
On average patients lose 15% of their starting bodyweight within 3 months.
Yes, a study found that treatment with Semaglutide improved body composition and reduced extra bodyfat including abdominal fat.
Patients with diabetes and pre-diabetes can be on it for life. Therefore, being on Semaglutide for an extended period of time for weight loss is considered generally safe.
At Padgett Medical Center, we provide you with a meal plan guideline. In general, you want to eat a balanced diet consisting of protein, fruits, vegetables, and carbohydrates.
We do not recommend doing a Keto diet while on Semaglutide. Some patients can experience symptoms of hypoglycemia if they are completely eliminating all carbohydrates.
We suggest in the stomach, thighs, buttock, or upper arm. It is a tiny insulin needle injection that is done subcutaneously.
Breakfast: 2 eggs scrambled, 1 cup of spinach, 4oz of turkey bacon, and 1 slice of sprouted grain bread.
Lunch: 4oz of grilled chicken, 1 cup of zucchini, and 1 whole wheat pita.
Dinner: 4oz of lean beef or chicken, side salad with balsamic dressing, and 4oz of oven roasted potatoes.
Snacks: 1 apple or 4oz of turkey with cheese, or 1 plum, or 1 pear, or 1oz of hummus with carrots.