Weight loss injections have become an impactful option for those struggling to shed pounds. These treatments can help patients achieve their weight loss goals when traditional methods have not been effective. At The Repaire Room in Charleston, SC, we offer solutions like these to support your weight loss journey.
Semaglutide and Ozempic are terms often mentioned in the context of weight loss, but many people don’t understand the nuances between these two terms. As a full-service medical spa that offers semaglutide injectables, we can give our patients all the information they need about these injectable medications to promote informed decision-making.
Learning More About Semaglutide
What Is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a medication originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes. It functions as a GLP-1 receptor agonist, mimicking the hormone GLP-1 to increase insulin production and lower blood sugar levels. Doctors noticed weight loss in many patients on the medication, and now it is commonly used for weight management.
Chemical Composition of Semaglutide
The benefits of semaglutide come from its chemical structure, which is designed to resist enzymatic degradation, allowing it to remain active in the body longer. This prolonged activity helps regulate blood sugar and appetite more effectively. Because of this molecular composition, semaglutide has a longer duration of action compared to similar medications.
Mechanism of Action
Semaglutide for weight loss influences areas of the brain that control appetite and food intake. It enhances the feeling of fullness, reduces hunger, and slows gastric emptying. This combined effect helps individuals reduce their caloric intake, which leads to weight loss.
Uses in Medical Treatments
Semaglutide is often used for those with type 2 diabetes who also want to lose weight or for those who are struggling with losing weight. It’s prescribed to individuals with a body mass index (BMI) over a certain threshold, particularly when they have related health conditions like hypertension or high cholesterol.
What Is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a brand name for a specific formulation of semaglutide designed for once-weekly subcutaneous injection. This formulation includes semaglutide as its active ingredient, combined with other components for stability and efficacy when injected. Ozempic has FDA approval specifically for managing type 2 diabetes but is often used for weight management, too.
Other Types of Semaglutide Treatments
In addition to Ozempic, weight management can be achieved with other forms of semaglutide treatments, such as Wegovy® and compounded semaglutide. Wegovy is specifically approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight conditions, especially those with weight-related health issues. Compounded semaglutide is tailored for specific patient needs, providing flexibility in dosage and formulation.
Choosing the Right Semaglutide Treatment
Selecting the appropriate semaglutide treatment depends on several factors, including availability, medical history, and personal preference for a specific administration method. Your healthcare provider will assess these factors to recommend the most suitable option. Access to these treatments might also vary depending on location and insurance coverage.
What to Expect From Your Semaglutide Treatment
Administration of Semaglutide
For weight loss, semaglutide is typically administered as an injection. It is injected under the skin, often in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. The frequency of administration can vary, but most formulations, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, are given once a week.
Dosage of Semaglutide
The dosage of semaglutide for weight loss is carefully determined by your healthcare provider, starting with a lower dose to allow time for your body to adjust and for your doctor to observe your response. Over time, the dosage may be gradually increased to the target therapeutic level. This gradual increase helps your body adjust to the medication and enhances its effectiveness in managing weight.
Good Candidates for Semaglutide
Semaglutide may be recommended for patients who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Sometimes the medication may also be recommended for patients with a lower BMI who have other health conditions like high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, or type 2 diabetes.
Lifestyle Considerations With Semaglutide
Dietary Recommendations
While taking semaglutide, following a balanced and nutritious diet is important both for your overall health and for the success of your weight loss results. Make dietary changes as simple as possible, focusing on incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, chicken, fish, and whole grains. Try not to eat many processed foods or foods with high sugar content, and ask your doctor to help you build a diet that nourishes your body while helping you lose weight.
Exercise Guidelines
Incorporating regular physical activity is important for those losing weight with semaglutide. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise five times per week. Good activities can include brisk walking, swimming, or cycling. Strength training exercises can also help build muscle and boost metabolism.
Managing Stress
Effective weight management involves keeping stress levels in check. Stress reduction can look differently for each patient but may include adjusting your schedule, incorporating more restful exercise like yoga and deep breathing throughout the day, and making time for enjoyable activities like massage or listening to music. High stress levels can interfere with weight loss, so finding healthy ways to relax is important.
Promoting Good Sleep
The benefits of semaglutide are maximized when you get adequate sleep. Develop a relaxing bedtime routine to help your body wind down, minimize phone use an hour before bed, and go to bed seven to nine hours before you have to wake up. You can also improve sleep by adjusting the temperature of the room and making sure your pillow and mattress are comfortable.
Attending Regular Medical Check-ups
Regular medical check-ups are a way to monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. Your healthcare provider will track your response to semaglutide and address any concerns you may have.
Lose Weight More Effectively With Semaglutide in Charleston
Semaglutide offers a solution for those seeking effective weight management by helping to control appetite and promote weight loss. By integrating this treatment with healthy lifestyle choices, you can achieve your weight loss goals more effectively. To learn more about how The Repaire Room in Charleston, SC, can support your journey, contact us using our online form or call us at (843) 822-2046.
