What Is GLP-1’s & GLP/GIP (Semaglutide & Tirzepatide)?

Semaglutide (GLP-1(Glucagon Like Peptide) receptor agonist) works by mimicking a hormone that targets areas of the brain involved in regulating appetite and food intake. This can help you eat less, which can lead to weight loss.

Semaglutide is an injectable prescription medication for adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (excess weight) (BMI ≥27) who also have weight-related medical problems, to help them lose weight and keep it off. Semaglutide should be used with a reduced-calorie meal plan and increased physical activity.

Doctors do know that GLP-1s appear to help curb hunger. These medications also slow the movement of food from the stomach into the small intestine. As a result, you may feel full faster and longer, resulting in you eating less.

Along with helping to control blood sugar and boost weight loss, GLP-1s seem to have other major benefits. Research has found that some GLP-I’s may lower the risk of heart disease, such as heart failure, stroke and kidney disease. People taking GLP-1’s have also seen their blood pressure and cholesterol levels improve. But it's not clear whether these benefits are from the medication or the weight loss...either way it’s a win win!

• Semaglutide contains semaglutide and should not be used with other semaglutide-containing products or other GLP-1 receptor agonist medicines.

• It is not known if Semaglutide is safe and effective when taken with over the counter, or herbal weight-loss products.

• It is not known if Semaglutide can be used safely in people with a history of pancreatitis

Is the medication safe?

GLP-1 (Semaglutide) medications are FDA-approved and safe. They have been widely used since 2005 and are commonly used by patients with minimal side effects. Semaglutide is one of the GLP-1 medications approved, and clinically tested by the FDA, which is also stimulant-free, and non-habit forming.

Does it interact with other medications?

A full medical evaluation will be performed, including blood work if needed, before customizing your treatment plan and prescribing Semaglutide. It can be safely taken with other common prescription medications, including blood pressure, thyroid, and diabetes medications. We will determine the best medication option for you.

How much weight have people lost taking Semaglutide?

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 in the study (not on medicine) lost an average of 6 lb (or ~2.5% body weight). The average starting weight for both groups was ~232 lbs.

Results are from a 68-week medical study of adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) and adults with excess weight (BMI ≥27) who also had weight-related medical problems including high blood pressure or high cholesterol. People with type 2 diabetes were excluded. Both groups were instructed to take the medication while adhering to a reduced-calorie meal plan along with increased physical activity. 7% of people taking Wegovy® (Semaglutide) (92 people) left the medical study due to side effects, compared to 3.1% of people taking placebo (20 people).

• 83% of adults taking Semaglutide lost 5% or more weight, compared to 31% taking placebo

• 66% of adults taking Semaglutide lost 10% or more weight, compared to 12% taking placebo

• 48% of adults taking Semaglutide lost 15% or more weight, compared to 5% taking placebo.

About 1 in 3 adults lost 46 lb or more (20% weight loss). This was calculated from ~232 lb starting weight.

In addition to a reduced-calorie meal plan and increased physical activity, people in this study taking Semaglutide lost more weight vs placebo.

*In a supportive measure, at week 68, at least 20% weight loss was seen in 30% of people taking Semaglutide versus 2% of people taking placebo.

How soon can I expect to lose weight with Semaglutide?

People respond to medicines differently, so there is no set time for when you can expect to see results with Semaglutide. The studies show weight loss throughout the trial and in conjunction with Physician’s Plan Weight Management’s QuickStart or JumpStart Plans you should expect to see successful results.

What are the most common side effects of Semaglutide?

The most common side effects of Semaglutide may include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, stomach (abdomen) pain, headache, tiredness (fatigue), upset stomach, dizziness, feeling bloated, belching, gas, and heartburn.

These side effects are very mild especially starting at a low dose and gradually increasing the dosage when your provider feels it is time to do so.

Most of these side effect can be treated with over-the-counter remedies like Antacids, Pepto bismol, anti-diarrhea medicines, Tylenol, Gas-Ex, Dulcolax (for constipation) or other fiber remedies for constipation. Our B-Vitamin shots given on the same day as your Semaglutide injection can help to combat nausea.

Again, most of these side effects are very mild and will quickly subside as your body gets used to Semaglutide.

Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that bother you.

Can I travel with Semaglutide?

It is possible to travel with your Semaglutide: When traveling by air, keep your Semaglutide in your carry-on, as it may freeze in the baggage compartment. Be sure to check with the airline to see if they have any specific baggage rules. If needed, Semaglutide may be stored between 46°F and 86°F in the syringe for up to 28 days. If you are not able to come in for your injection, please let us know in advance so that we can arrange to educate you on self-administering the injection.

How is it taken/given?

Semaglutide is administered by our medical staff as a subcutaneous injection with a very small gauge needle (insulin Syringe) in the lower abdomen/flank/inner or outer thigh.

How often do I get the injection?

It is administered once per week by our medical staff and is best done on a consistent day of the week. We will set you up with an appointment to weigh-in and get the Semaglutide injection at the same time. This helps with accountability and to get you in and out of the clinic quickly.

How long do I take Semaglutide?

As mentioned earlier in this handout the studies were done on a 68-week trial. It can be taken long term (years) if needed for weight loss and maintenance if required.

What is the cost of the Semaglutide?

Semaglutide costs can be very expensive when purchased outright, the weight loss dose can be >$1,000 per month. Most insurance companies will not cover the cost of the injections. We at Physician’s Plan Weight Management Medical Clinics will do our very best to keep the price as low as possible but it depends on weight patient status and the dosage you are receiving and the available supply. Please ask one of our Practitioners for more information.