How To Get Semaglutide for Weight Loss
Often referred to as a “miracle drug,” semaglutide is changing the way we think about weight loss and long-term weight management. This medication has helped countless patients shed stubborn body fat, increase their overall health, and encourage better self-care.
Unfortunately, the brand-name forms of semaglutide have earned a reputation for high costs and low accessibility, but it’s now easier than ever to get semaglutide for weight loss. Today, we’re discussing how semaglutide works and how you can get a prescription for this highly sought-after medication.
What is semaglutide?
Semaglutide is an injectable weight-loss medication sold under brand names like Ozempic and Wegovy. Let’s take a look at this revolutionary supershot:
How does semaglutide work for weight loss?
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist that mimics hormones naturally made in the gut. These hormones tell the brain that your stomach is full, delay gastric emptying, and stimulate insulin production within the pancreas. These effects work together to maintain satiety and steady blood sugar levels to decrease appetite.
Who should take semaglutide?
The FDA originally approved brand-name semaglutide for patients with Type 2 Diabetes, but it’s now being prescribed for non-diabetics who struggle with weight management. When lifestyle factors like diet and exercise aren’t enough to lose weight, this injection may be able to help. Semaglutide may not be right for everyone, such as pregnant women and patients with a history of certain forms of cancer.
What are the risks of semaglutide?
Gastrointestinal distress, such as stomach pain, nausea, and constipation, are common side effects of semaglutide. Some patients report increased fatigue. In rare cases, others experience adverse reactions, including vision changes, trouble swallowing, and more severe issues like thyroid problems and pancreatitis.
How to get semaglutide for weight loss
Compounded semaglutide is a cost-effective alternative to name-brand medications, which can cost over $1,000 per month. Here’s how you can get your hands on this weekly injection:
1. Schedule an appointment with a qualified provider
The first step is to find a reputable provider who understands the complexities of weight management. This could be your general practitioner or a licensed provider at a medical spa or weight loss clinic.
2. Discuss your weight management goals
Most providers won’t prescribe semaglutide injections for patients who only need to lose a few pounds, but they might be more inclined if you’re predisposed to conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Discuss your personal and family medical histories, goals for treatment, and the tactics you’ve already tried to lose weight. Many providers will run tests to assess your blood sugar levels and pancreatic function before prescribing semaglutide.
3. Get evaluated for suitability
To obtain a prescription for semaglutide, you must meet various criteria, including:
Minimum BMI of 30 or higher, or 27 and up with accompanying medical conditions.
Diabetes or insulin resistance.
Failure to manage weight using other methods.
These criteria may vary based on state law. Your provider will assess your eligibility to determine if semaglutide is a good fit for you.
4. Get your prescription
Once you receive your semaglutide prescription, you’re ready to get started! If you’ve never administered injections before, have no fear. Your provider can help you get comfortable with the process.
You’ll begin with a starter dose of 0.25 mg per week and slowly work your way up to a therapeutic dose. Be sure to store your medication in the refrigerator for proper temperature control.
What to expect when taking semaglutide for weight loss
Ready to kickstart your weight-loss journey with weekly semaglutide injections? Here’s what you can expect from treatment:
Improved metabolic health
Reduced appetite, delayed digestion, and heightened insulin sensitivity typically result in lower caloric intake. While your metabolism may slow down at first, maintaining an active lifestyle and incorporating resistance training into your exercise routine can help.
Reduced risk of cardiovascular issues
Studies have shown that semaglutide — the active ingredient in drugs like Ozempic — can improve cardiovascular health and minimize the risk of heart attack, heart disease, and stroke. By shedding excess weight and becoming more physically active, many semaglutide users are taking control of their health and wellness.
Non-invasive, long-term treatment
Semaglutide is marketed as a long-term weight management solution to be used along with a healthy diet and active lifestyle. Once you reach your goal weight, you may reduce your intake to a maintenance dose. Best of all, you don’t have to undergo risky, expensive surgical procedures to see the effects.
Elevate your health and regain confidence at Glow Aesthetics!
If you’re tired of fad diets and restrictive eating, semaglutide can offer a little breathing room to facilitate weight loss without unnecessary stress. At Glow Aesthetics, we prescribe a number of solutions for weight loss, including semaglutide and tirzepatide. Schedule a consultation to get started today!