Weight loss isn't just about looking slim; it's about your well-being, improving your health, and we now understand, expanding your lifespan. Vast research points to weight loss in conjunction with reducing your risk against a range of chronic diseases including metabolic disorders, diabetes, heart and brain vascular diseases, cancers, and also dementia and Alzheimer's.
Knowing this, we should all try to maintain our ideal weight for our health benefits. That being said, everyone agrees that weight loss can be challenging or nearly impossible. Add to this, busy schedules, the standard American diet, more sedentary lifestyles, increasing insulin resistance and decreasing metabolisms for a number of reasons, then you get a majority of the population that could stand to lose a little or a lot of weight.
Did you know 70% of all American adults are overweight or obese? That's right. According to the statistical records of the NIH (National Institute of Health), roughly 30% of adults are officially overweight (BMI over 25) and another 40% are clinically obese by the medical definition. That is a lot of people that could potentially benefit from a weight loss program that helps them shed a few extra pounds!
Can America get back in shape? It may be easier than you think!
Enter Semaglutide
Now, there is a medication available that is taking the country by storm and the weight loss initiative to a whole new level. Enter generic Semaglutide. This peptide molecule medication was originally approved in 2017 by the FDA to treat Type II Diabetes under the brand name Ozempic which has since been prescribed to millions of people worldwide. What they discovered over the months and years these people received treatment for Diabetes Type II, is that that also experienced significant weight loss and improvement in other health factors. Then, more recently in 2021, the FDA approved Wegovy brand drug (which is the same exact semaglutide medication with a slightly different dosage protocol) to treat obesity and long-term weight management for overweight persons.
In 2021, when the FDA approved the use of Semaglutide injections for the first time for the indication of weight loss, the drug was rapidly prescribed by physicians. So much so, that it became in short supply — and for good reason. Studies show that significant weight loss can be achieved when the treatment is combined with healthy lifestyle changes. The shortage of the medicine then led to U.S. pharmacies developing Semaglutide, the generic version of the brand name drug Wegovy, to help meet the overwhelming demand. Now, the cheaper generic Semaglutide is available from a number of prescribing clinics and medspas across the country.
No, it isn't a miracle drug, because if you stop taking it, you may gain some of the weight back. However, most experts and patients agree - Semaglutide does make losing weight and improving your health much easier. In the end, it boils down to a partnership between your commitment to become healthier and a medical tool that makes it possible.
Wondering if Semaglutide might help you along your wellness journey? Read on to learn all about Semaglutide for weight loss:
How Well does Semaglutide Actually Work for Weight Loss?
The New England Journal of Medicine presented compelling data showcasing the efficacy of semaglutide in combating obesity. In a clinical trial, participants who received semaglutide experienced a remarkable mean reduction in body weight of -14.9% compared to -2.4% in the placebo group over a period of 68 weeks. This indicates a substantial difference in weight loss between the two groups. Moreover, semaglutide demonstrated not only weight loss benefits but also improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors and participant-reported physical functioning. Despite some mild and transient side effects such as nausea and diarrhea, the study concluded that semaglutide (in conjunction with lifestyle changes) leads to clinically relevant and sustained weight loss.
The original manufacturer Novus of FDA-approved semaglutide medication Wegovy reported results of clinical trials that obese persons taking the once-weekly injections did achieve on average 15% reduction in total body weight over a 68 month period.
Lastly, many clinics and medspas across the country are reporting favorable results with generic Semaglutide once-weekly injections for their patients. Some persons have reported losing 20% or more of their starting body weight on Semaglutide.
At Glosshouz, we have just launched our Metabolous
Wellness Medical Weight Loss program with Semaglutide a couple of months ago and there are many patients that are wanting to try it. In fact, most of our staff (those who are not contraindicated medically) have also been able to be treated on the program. We are experiencing great results thus far with only mild side effects. My personal experience has also been favorable and I've lost 9 lbs after just one month. The side effects for me have also been easy to tolerate (only lack of appetite).
Read on to learn all about Semaglutide once-weekly injections for weight loss.
How Does Semaglutide Work?
Semaglutide works by mimicking the actions of the GLP-1 hormone naturally released in the gut after eating. While originally used to treat Type 2 diabetes by increasing insulin production and reducing blood sugar levels, semaglutide also interacts with GLP-1 receptors in the brain to regulate appetite and satiety.
The increase in GLP-1 levels prompts the brain to suppress appetite and signal fullness. When integrated with a healthy diet and regular exercise, semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss and reduce the risk of obesity-related conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. While weight loss can be observed within the first month of treatment, the full impact typically becomes evident after several months.
Individual experiences with semaglutide may vary, but certain side effects are reported by those using it for weight loss. These can include dizziness, fatigue, gastrointestinal disturbances (diarrhea, constipation, gas), headaches, and mild stomach issues such as nausea and vomiting. However, it's important to note that these side effects are often minimal and can usually be managed by gradually increasing the dosage.
The standard protocol for Semaglutide for weight loss includes receiving a once-weekly injection with a tiny inulin needle. Persons beginning the program start out a very small dose in order for your body to get used to the medication slowly and to minimize your side effects. After each 4 weeks, the dosage is usually titrated up to increase the medication amount given to a maximum dose that is typically dependent upon your tolerance to the drug and how well the treatment is working.
During the program, it is important that weigh-ins and lab testing be repeated periodically. In this way, we are able to monitor your health and the program results to help you achieve your weight loss goals.
Glosshouz’s Medical Weight Loss Program
For those seeking professional guidance and support while embarking on a semaglutide-based weight loss journey, Glosshouz offers a comprehensive Medical Weight Loss Program. This program is designed to foster lasting lifestyle changes in terms of nutrition and moderate exercise to improve overall health and well-being over the long run.
To qualify for Glosshouz's program, individuals undergo several steps:
Wellness Consultation: During a 45-minute session, you’ll receive a thorough consultation regarding weight goals, nutrition, and exercise. BMI, body weight, body fat, and lean muscle measurements are taken, and a complete explanation of the program is provided.
Wellness Labs: We’ll draw an essential blood sample so we can obtain wellness data related to weight loss.
Health Biomarkers Assessment: After receiving the wellness labs, our health professionals discuss all recorded biomarkers and explain their importance.
Initiating Treatment: Assuming there are no contraindications, the first semaglutide injection can be administered on the same day as reviewing your lab results.
Contraindications - Note that Semaglutide is contraindicated for some individuals with specific health concerns that may be discovered. These include those with a history of thyroid issues, gall bladder disease, pancreatitis, abnormal A1C, or a history of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Achieving Weight Loss Goals: Most participants can anticipate noticeable weight loss within four weeks of starting the program but the duration of your program will depend on individual weight loss goals and starting weight. Once the desired weight is reached, participants can consider tapering off the medication as recommended.
Semaglutide for Weight Loss Pricing Out-of-Pocket
Semaglutide for weight loss is typically not covered by any health insurance programs unless you are clinically obese. Even in that case, your health insurance may not cover the treatment from your family doctor as it can be quite expensive from the original manufacturer. The brand name manufacturer of the products may charge $1200 or more per month for the medication. Generic Semaglutide, however, can be a manageable investment toward your health if you are able to pay out of pocket.
Glosshouz does not offer any medical services for insurance pay. We do, however, have cash-pay and financing programs to help individuals be able to afford treatments they need.
Glosshouz Medical Weight Loss program utilizing once-weekly Semaglutide injections cost $500/month regular price. However, we also offer the same program for Benefits Flex Fund (BFF) BFF Savings Program members for reduced 20% off rates and package pricing if you buy 6 months up front with special deal for complimentary labs as well.
Refer to Glosshouz Medical Weight Loss page for current pricing.
Glosshouz's Medical Weight Loss Program empowers individuals to not only shed excess weight but also develop healthier habits that contribute to long-term well-being.
Semaglutide offers a promising avenue for effective weight loss, backed by substantial clinical evidence. Its mechanism of action, coupled with proper lifestyle adjustments, can lead to significant and sustainable weight reduction.
If you're considering a comprehensive approach to weight loss, Glosshouz's Medical Weight Loss Program, incorporating semaglutide, could be your path to a healthier, happier you. Let us help you on your weight loss journey.
To get started, Book your "Wellness Consultation" appointment at Glosshouz today or text/call us 303-459-4210.
