SEMAGLUTIDE SAN DIEGO (Zepbound, Ozempic, and Wegovy) is an antidiabetic medication that helps regulate blood sugar and aids in weight loss. It is an injection that can be used for type-2 diabetes and long-term weight management.

It works by mimicking a natural hormone called GLP-1, which tells your stomach to release insulin and reduces your liver’s sugar production.

Semaglutide is an injectable medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It was developed in 2012 by scientists at Novo Nordisk. The FDA first approved it in 2017 under the brand name Ozempic for use in people with diabetes who have not achieved optimal glycemic control with diet and exercise alone. In a clinical trial, patients taking this medication lost an average of 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks.

This medication works by mimicking a natural hormone in the body called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide 1). It tells the pancreas to release insulin, which helps the body manage blood sugar levels and reduce the amount of glucose the liver makes. The medication also slows stomach emptying, helping promote a feeling of fullness that assists in reducing food intake and calorie consumption.

Unlike oral medications, semaglutide is injected directly into the bloodstream through subcutaneous injections. This allows for more precise dosing and delivery of the medication to the body. In addition to promoting weight loss, it also improves other health indicators including blood sugar levels and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), as well as systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

The most effective method of using semaglutide is in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity. It is important to consult with a doctor before starting any weight loss program, including this medication, as they are the best qualified to determine whether it is safe and appropriate for you.

Because semaglutide interacts with some common medications, it is important to discuss any prescription and non-prescription medicines you are taking with your doctor before beginning treatment. This will help prevent any drug interactions that may impact your results or put you at a higher risk of experiencing side effects. For example, semaglutide can interact with some medications that increase insulin release, like sulfonylureas. This combination may increase your risk of developing hypoglycemia. Additionally, because this medication slows gastric emptying, it may interfere with how your body absorbs certain types of oral medications.

It is also important to avoid alcohol while taking this medication. Alcohol can have a negative effect on your blood sugar and could negatively affect the effectiveness of semaglutide.

How does semaglutide work?

Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) is a medication prescribed to help manage diabetes and aid in weight loss. It is a type of GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics the action of natural hormones in your body. It binds to and activates the GLP-1 receptors in your pancreas, stimulating insulin secretion when blood sugar levels are high. It also reduces the release of glucagon, another hormone that raises blood sugar. Semaglutide also slows down the way your stomach empties, which helps you feel full longer.

When used in conjunction with diet and exercise, semaglutide can lead to significant and sustained weight loss. In addition, it can improve blood sugar control for people with type 2 diabetes, helping prevent long-term complications. It also can help lower triglyceride levels and improve blood cholesterol.

Although semaglutide is typically safe, it is important to tell your doctor about all your health conditions and medications before starting treatment. This information will help your doctor avoid possible drug interactions or severe side effects. You should also let your doctor know if you have a history of thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome, as these conditions may increase your risk of side effects with this medication.

The most common side effects of semaglutide include nausea and vomiting. These side effects usually occur when you first start taking the medication, but they tend to fade with time. Other side effects that can occur include diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, and low blood sugar. Most of these side effects are mild, but they can be serious and may require medical attention.

Before you inject your dose, look at the medication to make sure it is clear and free of particles or other debris. It is also important to always use new needles and pens and never reuse them. You should also dispose of the needles in a puncture resistant container after each injection.

Semaglutide is injected under the skin. Your doctor will teach you how to inject your medication. You should follow the injection schedule as closely as possible to ensure proper treatment and effectiveness.

If you are a candidate for semaglutide, it is likely because your body mass index (BMI) is above 30 or you have other health conditions related to obesity. You should be willing to commit to lifestyle changes in order to get the best results from this treatment.

How does semaglutide help you lose weight?

Semaglutide works by blocking your appetite, making you feel full, and helping you eat less. Specifically, it occupies receptors in your brain that regulate your appetite. These receptors are activated by a natural hormone in your body called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and help you feel full after eating, leading you to consume fewer calories.

Studies show that people with type 2 diabetes who take GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide lose more weight than those who do not. This is due to the positive impact that these medications have on a number of health markers, including systolic blood pressure, glycated hemoglobin, and fasting plasma glucose. The medication also helps reduce waist circumference, improving your overall quality of life.

In addition to suppressing your appetite, semaglutide slows the rate at which your stomach empties, meaning that you will feel satiated longer after meals and are more likely to make healthier food choices. This is what allows you to eat a more balanced diet that is high in protein and fiber, which is an essential component of successful long-term weight loss.

While some people experience nausea and vomiting while taking semaglutide, these symptoms are usually mild and will go away after a few days or weeks. Other side effects include diarrhea, constipation, and fatigue, but these are also typically minor and temporary.

It’s important to note that semaglutide is not for everyone and must be paired with a healthy lifestyle, including diet and exercise, to be effective. It’s also not recommended for those who have type 1 diabetes because it can cause hypoglycemia or low blood sugar levels. Additionally, it’s a good idea to speak with a medical professional at Brandon Medical Center before beginning treatment to ensure that the medication is safe for you.

What are the side effects of semaglutide?

In clinical trials, the most common side effects associated with semaglutide have included nausea and diarrhea. People also reported having stomach pain or bloating, and some experienced acid reflux. People taking this medication should avoid eating greasy or spicy foods and drinking too much alcohol. They should also take an over-the-counter antacid when needed to help relieve these symptoms. In addition, people with diabetes who use this drug are at risk of developing low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia). They should regularly check their blood glucose and carry an emergency glucagon kit with them in case of an attack.

It’s important to note that the onset of most side effects usually occur during the first few weeks of treatment, and then usually disappear as the body gets used to this medication. However, some may be serious and require medical attention.

A small number of people experienced serious stomach or intestinal problems, including pancreatitis and inflammation of the gallbladder. The FDA recommends getting medical help right away if you experience these symptoms. In some cases, they may be fatal if not treated right away.

Other more minor side effects of semaglutide include a slower rate of gastric emptying and a reduction in appetite. This medication isn’t suitable for everyone, and it should only be used if you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or obesity. Those who have prediabetes can benefit from this drug as well, as it helped many people with pre-diabetes revert to normal blood glucose levels and lose weight in the process.

People taking this medication should also talk to their doctor before attempting to conceive or breastfeeding. They should also be aware that this medication may cause suicidal thoughts in some people, and it’s recommended they seek immediate medical help if they begin to experience these symptoms.

It’s also important to tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have, as well as any prescription and non-prescription medications and supplements you take. This will reduce the chance of any unwanted interactions between this medication and other drugs you’re currently taking.