Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, or GLP-1 agonists.
These drugs mimic the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1. When blood sugar levels start to rise after someone eats, these drugs stimulate the body to produce more insulin. The extra insulin helps lower blood sugar levels. But it’s not clear how the GLP-1 drugs lead to weight loss. Doctors do know that GLP-1 agonists appear to help curb hunger. These drugs also slow the movement of food from the stomach into the small intestine. As a result, you may feel full faster and longer, so you eat less.
Along with helping to control blood sugar and boost weight loss, GLP-1s and SGLT-2 inhibitors seem to have other major benefits. Research has found that some drugs in these groups may lower the risk of heart disease, such as heart failure, stroke and kidney disease. People taking these drugs have seen their blood pressure and cholesterol levels improve. But it’s not clear whether these benefits are from the drug or the weight loss.
During your weight loss consultation with one of our providers, we will obtain a complete medical history including questions about your current lifestyle. There’s no preparation needed except coming prepared to speak honestly with your provider. Your provider may also discuss non-invasive cosmetic options to get the look that you’re after to use in conjunction with their plan like BodyTite.
We prefer to administer your weekly injections at The Luxe so that we maintain a close relationship with our clients and can easily assess and help with any side effects that you may have. We will also weigh you and obtain your vital signs at these appointments. The appointments typically last 15 minutes.
There can be side effects with any prescribed medication. The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea but your provider will closely monitor your health along the way.