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May 9, 2023

Semaglutide: A Weight Loss Game Changer

You may have been hearing a lot about Semaglutide and its recently discovered weight loss benefits. So, what is it exactly? Semaglutide was first approved in 2017 to help control blood sugar in Type 2-diabetes. With more research, the FDA approved Wegovy in 2020, an injectable, for weight loss. A study in 2018 found that participants lost an average of almost 15% of their original body weight. 

So, what is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide works a few different ways. It helps the pancreas release insulin when blood sugar is elevated. It also slows the movement of food through the GI tract, which in turn decreases appetite, therefore causing weight loss. It also mimics a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which regulates our hunger.

Ok…sounds cool! How fast does this work? I’m trying to go on vacation next month.

Weight loss can be seen within the first week or two. BUT, please not this is not a “quick fix”. Weight loss medications should be taken seriously and combined with healthy diet changes and a standard exercise regimen. Lifestyle changes are a must when combined with weight management medications, as without this, the medication may not be as effective and can also cause rebound weight gain once it is stopped. Typically, a healthy weight loss rule of thumb is up to 2lbs/week. And as always, Flatirons Family Pharmacy is here to help you in our journey!

Diet and Exercise too, Got it! What about side effects?

The main side effect is nausea. To help, eat things like toast, or crackers, and lots of water.

Other side effects you may experience are vomiting, diarrhea, headache, tiredness, dizziness, and heartburn. It is also important to monitor your blood sugar and be aware of the signs of low blood sugar. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if there are any other labs you should monitor while on this medication.

Are you ready to start your weight loss journey?

Flatirons Family Pharmacy is now offering rapid dissolve tablets. We will partner with your healthcare provider to help with a dosing schedule, answer all questions, and compound the medication for you. Our amazing pharmacy team is ready to help you achieve your goals. 

If you don’t have a provider, we can connect you with one.

Call us today at 303-827-3480! 

 

References

  • STEP 1: Research Study Investigating How Well Semaglutide Works in People Suffering From Overweight or Obesity – Full Text View – ClinicalTrials.gov. Clinicaltrials.gov. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03548935. Published 2022. Accessed May 9th, 2023.
  • Weight‐Loss Prescription Medication | WegovyTM (semaglutide) Injection 2.4 mg. www.wegovy.com. Accessed May 9, 2023. https://www.wegovy.com/
  • FDA Approves New Drug Treatment for Chronic Weight Management, First Since 2014. FDA. Published June 4, 2021. Accessed May 9, 2023. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-drug-treatment-chronic-weight-management-first-2014