GLP-1 (Semaglutide/Tirzepatide)
What is Semaglutide?
(Ozempic, Wegovy)
GLP-1 receptor agonist
(glucagon-like peptide-1)
Semaglutide is the new 'weight loss game changer' to finally help you achieve and sustain your weight loss goal for life! Adults lost on average ~35 LBS (or ~15% body
weight) or more.
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist and is the active ingredient in the medications Ozempic® and Wegovy™.
How it works:
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Increases insulin secretion in response to glucose.
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Suppresses glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar.
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Slows gastric emptying, making you feel full longer.
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Acts on the brain’s appetite centers, reducing hunger and food intake.
What is tirzepatide?
(Mounjaro, Zepbound)
Dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist
(GIP = glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide)
Tirzepatide is the 'newest weight-loss game changer'. The same active ingredients in Mounjaro and Zepbound. It is a Dual GLP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-
like peptide-1) which also improves blood sugar control and reduces appetite. The dual action may produce stronger effects on weight loss and glucose regulation.
How it works:
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Activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors.
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The GLP-1 part does what semaglutide does (insulin stimulation, appetite
suppression, slowed digestion). -
The GIP component enhances the body’s sensitivity to insulin, improves fat metabolism, and may have additional appetite-suppressing and fat burning effects.
Some Common Questions
How does GLP1-'s work?
It slows the movement of food through the stomach, making you feel full longer and
decrease your appetite. It stimulates insulin release which moves sugar from the blood stream into cells for energy. It decreases body fat percentage.
How do I take GLP-1's?
They are a subcutaneous injectable medication administered once a week. It should be administered on the same day each week. You will start on an initial dose and increased over time.
Who cannot take GLP-1's?
Semaglutide cannot be used in Type 1 diabetes, pancreatitis, medullary thyroid cancer, or if you are taking chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, or vanlafaxine.
What are the most common side effects of GLP-1's?
Gastrointestinal issues are the most common complaint. We can reduce the side effects can be reduced by beginning with a lower dose and then slowly increasing the amount you take.
Other Important Considerations:
In addition to taking Semaglutide injections, it is also essential that you maintain a healthy lifestyle for it to be effective. That means eating nutritious meals and exercising regularly. Eating healthy foods such as proteins, fruits, and vegetables can help curb cravings while exercising can burn off extra calories and help keep your metabolism high so that you can continue losing weight even after you stop taking the injections.