Semaglutide is an injectable prescription medication originally approved for treating type 2 diabetes. More recently, it has shown great promise as an effective weight loss treatment due to its ability to reduce appetite and caloric intake.
When used specifically for weight management rather than diabetes, semaglutide is prescribed at a different dose under the brand name Wegovy. Semaglutide works by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. It sends signals of fullness to the brain so less food is consumed while also slowing digestion.
There are many potential benefits of using semaglutide injections for weight loss and maintenance:
These powerful effects make semaglutide an appealing option for those struggling with excess weight and related health issues.
Semaglutide has been clinically proven effective for weight loss in adults with:
It is not currently recommended for patients who are under 18 years old. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid using it.
To determine if you are a candidate, your Endocrine Wellness Center practitioner will perform a full health evaluation. They can also discuss any side effects or precautions given your medical history.
If determined an appropriate candidate, you will undergo the following process to start semaglutide therapy:
During your first appointment at our Clinton weight loss clinic, we will:
Once approved for treatment, you will receive a semaglutide prescription along with instructions for proper injecting technique and dosage schedule.
Follow-up visits will be scheduled every 4-12 weeks to:
We also suggest occasional check-ins with your primary care provider for updated lab work and other specialty care as needed.
Semaglutide use will vary from person to person, but most can expect:
As with most medications, some possible side effects include:
These are often mild-moderate and resolve within a few weeks as the body adjusts. Staying well hydrated and slowly ramping up dosage can help minimize symptoms. Notify your provider if any become severe or do not improve.
Weight loss results are dose-dependent but most lose 5-15% of their starting weight over 3-5 months. However, there is significant variability in individual response.
Some experience rapid initial weight loss that plateaus while others have more gradual but steady losses over many months. A few may lose very little weight on semaglutide alone and require other interventions.
After achieving maximum desired weight loss, your provider will determine if to continue semaglutide therapy for weight loss maintenance. This helps sustain appetite control and reduced weight longer term.
The duration of treatment depends partially on each patient's response and ability to make lasting lifestyle changes. Our practitioners can advise you on an appropriate maintenance schedule.
There are many pieces that factor into successful weight management including semaglutide: proper injection technique, lifestyle changes, follow-up care, and setting realistic expectations.
This is why taking a highly personalized approach is so vital when helping patients lose weight and improve their health.
Here at Endocrine Wellness Center Clinton, our experienced nurse practitioners take the time to understand your unique needs and challenges. We then craft customized plans that play to your strengths while identifying potential barriers. This includes:
A comprehensive health evaluation helps determine if semaglutide is right for you or if other interventions would be safer or more effective. It also establishes important baseline markers to monitor while on treatment.
Each visit includes dedicated time for questions, education, and open conversations about your experience with semaglutide therapy.
You will have direct access to communicate with your care team in between appointments whether via phone, email, or patient portal.
By offering high-touch support grounded in science and compassion, we empower patients to feel understood, heard, and confident every step of their health journey. Contact us today to learn more about our weight loss programs or schedule a consultation.
