Semaglutide is an injectable prescription medication used to improve blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes, as well as assist with weight management for chronic weight issues in adults. It works by acting similar to the hormone GLP-1 to stimulate the release of insulin when blood sugar is high. Semaglutide also slows digestion and decreases appetite.
When used for diabetes, semaglutide injections should be used with diet and exercise, and not as a substitute. When used for weight management, it should be combined with increased physical activity.
Semaglutide goes by the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy. Wegovy contains a higher dose approved specifically for chronic weight management.
Below we will explore key topics around semaglutide injections including:
The benefits of semaglutide include:
- Lowers A1C - By stimulating release of insulin, semaglutide can lower A1C 1-2% on average - Does Not Cause Hypoglycemia - Low risk for blood sugar dropping too low - Promotes Weight Loss - Average loss around 10 pounds supports diabetes management
- Clinically Proven Results - In studies, most people lost 10-15% of body weight over 68 weeks - Long-Lasting Effect - Helps manage hunger and fullness over 24 hours - Suppresses Appetite - People eat less due to decreased hunger - Easy To Use - Only one injection under skin per week
- Improves Cholesterol - Raises good HDL cholesterol, lowers triglycerides - Lowers Blood Pressure - Modest reductions seen in clinical trials - Once Weekly Dosing - Much less frequent than many other injectables
The weight loss and glucose management effects stem from semaglutide's mechanisms:
- Stimulates Insulin Release - Insulin lowers blood sugar levels - Slows Stomach Emptying - Food stays in stomach longer, delays next meal
- Hypothalamus - Decreases hunger signals - Amygdala - Lessens appeal of food
By taps into the body's own appetite regulation pathways mediated by peptides like GLP-1, semaglutide provides a way influence weight and glycemic control.
Wegovy for weight loss and Ozempic for diabetes utilize the same formulation of semaglutide but have different dosing.
- Start at 0.25mg weekly - Ramp up over 5 weeks - Target dose 2.4mg weekly
- Usually 0.5mg or 1mg weekly - Maximum dose allowed is 1mg per week
Both are injected under skin of abdomen, thigh, or upper arm using small thin needle. Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic teaches proper technique.
Some keys for administration:
Semaglutide is structurally similar to a human hormone called GLP-1 that helps control blood sugar levels. When injected weekly, it mimics the effects of GLP-1, improving A1c hemoglobin levels in people with type 2 diabetes more effectively than many other diabetes medications.
Those who may benefit from semaglutide include:
- Adults with type 2 diabetes and A1C over 7% - Overweight/obese adults with BMI over 30, or over 27 with comorbidity
- Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 - Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
Common side effects are generally gastrointestinal like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and occur early on. These can be mitigated with ramp up dosing schedule.
Being evaluated by an endocrinologist like Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic ensures accurate diagnosis and earlier treatment, which can prevent long term complications.
- Worsening obesity - Cardiovascular disease - Diabetes complications - Fatty liver disease progression
- Halts weight gain trajectory - Improves risk factors for heart disease and stroke - Better health outcomes overall
Therefore, promptly consulting an endocrine specialist leads to earlier intervention when lifestyle changes alone prove inadequate for obesity or diabetes management.
Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic provides compassionate care anchored by strong medical expertise in complete hormone health to help patients like those considering semaglutide.
Our clinic offers:
Patients can feel confident entrusting their endocrine and weight loss treatment to our capable team of specialists.
Certain supportive lifestyle measures can enhance effectiveness of semaglutide:
- Lower glycemic index diet - Slowly digested carbs blunt blood sugar spikes - High protein intake - Helps preserve lean mass during weight loss - 150 minutes moderate activity weekly like brisk walking
- Schenectady Community Fitness- Offers group classes and personal training - The Wellness Co- Yoga, barre and Pilates in relaxing studio
The cold Schenectady winters can make outdoor activity challenging. Strategies include: - Mall walking routes - Enclosed, climate controlled setting - Warm winter gear - Allows for outdoor recreation - At home workout programs - Alternative when weather prohibits outdoor plans
The long summer days present opportunities to be active outside enjoying parks and trails, with proper hydration and sun protection.
For eligible patients, semaglutide injections provide an additional option alongside lifestyle modification for managing type 2 diabetes or losing significant weight. Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic offers cutting edge non-insulin injectable therapies programs. Our knowledgeable specialists create personalized treatment plans aimed at the best possible health outcomes. We welcome those looking to learn more about semaglutide or seeking compassionate endocrine care to contact us for a consultation.
