For new patients interested in Semaglutide
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a modified molecule our bodies make, called a GLP-1 analog. It works by increasing insulin production and lowers glucagon secretion as well as targets areas in the brain that regulate appetite and food intake. A small change in the molecule allows the drug to last weeks in our bodies rather than the natural version our bodies make, which lasts minutes. Originally used for diabetes and sold under the name Ozempic®.
In June 2021, Wegovy, brand name for semaglutide, was FDA approved for weight loss. Although semaglutide or tirzepatide (Mounjaro) might be covered under certain insurance plans, in my personal experience with my patients with Type 2 diabetes, obtaining insurance authorization is extremely difficult and is typically not a preferred medication on most insurances. Other medications must be tried and failed first, such as metformin and other GLP-1 drugs, and requires a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. Even if approved by insurance, copays can be high, and Wegovy is on backorder and has been impossible for patients to get.
How Does Semaglutide Work?
Semaglutide acts in the following ways:
- Delays how quickly our stomachs digest food. Leading to a feeling of fullness and satisfaction with smaller meal sizes
- Slows intestinal motility so you will feel fuller longer after meals.
- Lowers blood sugars, in part by reducing the production of sugar in the liver.
- Reduced body fat percentage
- Stimulates Insulin secreton by the pancreas.
- Semaglutide will not cause low blood sugars or “jitters”
- Treats PCOS
- Improves fertility
- Neuroprotective
- Lower cardiovascular disease risk
Who cannot take Semaglutide?
- Patients with Type 1 diabetes
- Patients with a personal or family history of Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2 or medullary thyroid cancer
- Patients with kidney disease
- Patients with a history of pancreatitis should consult their medical provider
- The risk of pancreatitis can be reduced by reducing or eliminating alcohol intake
Common side effects: nausea, diarrhea, constipation, acid reflux, belching, or abdominal pain. This medication is compounded with vitamin B12 to reduce nausea side effects. At your request, a dissolvable nausea medication prescription can be sent if you provide Angela with the name and cross streets of your preferred pharmacy. Constipation can be relieved by Vital Pro Naturals Advanced Lax available at all Clean Colonics locations. Take 1 capsule at 7pm with a full glass of water. If no bowel movement in 18 hours, take 2 capsules at 7pm with a full glass of water.