GLP-1 DRUGS FOR WEIGHT LOSS

GLP-1 medications effectively replicate the actions of the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone, which are essential for regulating blood glucose levels and appetite. By activating GLP-1 receptors, these weight losing medications drive significant weight loss by reducing appetite and extending gastric emptying, ensuring individuals experience lasting feelings of fullness.

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WHAT IS GLP-1?

GLP-1, or glucagon-like peptide-1, is a hormone that regulates blood sugar and appetite. GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic its effects and are used primarily for type 2 diabetes and weight management.​

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Examples of injectable GLP-1's include:

• Wegovy® / Ozempic® (Active ingredient: Semaglutide)

• Mounjaro® / Zepbound® (Active ingredient: Tirzepatide)

• Saxenda® / Victoza® (Active ingredient: Liraglutide)

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Examples of oral GLP-1's include:

• Rybelsus® (Active ingredient: Semaglutide)

• Topamax® / Qudexy® / Trokendi XR® (Active ingredient: Topiramate)

• Zyban® / Contrave® / Aplenzin XR® (Active ingredient: Bupropion)

• Apo-Naltrexone® / ReVia® (Active ingredient: Naltrexone)

• Xenical® / Alli® (Active ingredient: Orlistat)

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While GLP-1's are not classified as specialty medications, they appear to tick many of the boxes that make that would define them as such. Specialty drugs are, "high-cost, complex medications that require special handling and administration." GLP-1 drugs are often associated with high costs, and in fact, spending growth on GLP-1s outpaces specialty drugs. Additional, coverage for weight-loss indications is not universally provided by all insurance plans, and some may not cover expenses at all. As these are also self-injectable treatments designed for chronic conditions, one might think that would qualify them for "special handling" or "complex, chronic" part, but apparently that is not true. ​​

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WHAT IS THE BEST INJECTION FOR WEIGHT LOSS?​​​

There is no right answer to this question, only the right weight loss shot for YOU. After your individual assessment, where we will assess your your individual needs, medical history, and potential risks and benefits of each medication, you will be prescribed the GLP-1 drug that fits YOU. Some people may experience more significant weight loss than others, which also makes the choice of GLP-1 an important decision. Our licensed prescriber will write a script for you to fill at your local pharmacy.​​

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GLP-1 Side Effects:

As with all medications, these injections may carry potential side effects. Typical side effects associated with weight losing medications include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headaches, and fatigue.​​​

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Feeling full is not a side effect. That is a desired effect. We will know the weight loss shot is working if you don't feel hungry, feel full more quickly, or feel like have a large serving sitting in your stomach after a meal.

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While nausea is a common side effect, persistent nausea is a possible sign of a severe side effect. It may be possible to reduce the dose or switch to a different weight loss medication to see if improves, however we must also consider that severe vomiting or abdominal pain may be a sign of pancreatitis. This requires immediate attention.