Semaglutide Overview

Semaglutide is a medication used primarily for managing Type 2 diabetes and obesity. It belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic the effects of a naturally occurring hormone, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), just at much higher levels. Semaglutide helps regulate blood sugar levels, reduce appetite, and support weight loss.

Common Brand Names: Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus. Please note that we use compounded semaglutide, NOT the aforementioned brand names. 

Mechanism of Action

GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide work by:

• Delaying Gastric Emptying: Semaglutide slows the rate at which food leaves the stomach, creating a feeling of fullness and reducing appetite, which leads to less cravings and calorie intake.
• Increasing Insulin Secretion: Semaglutide stimulates insulin release in response to meals, helping to reduce blood sugar levels.
• Decreasing Glucagon Secretion: It reduces glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar, to help stabilize glucose levels.

Benefits of Semaglutide

• Significant Weight Loss: The drug has shown effectiveness in supporting weight loss, making it valuable for individuals with a difficult time losing weight.
• Appetite Control: By impacting hunger and satiety (feelings of fullness) signals, semaglutide helps people control their food intake.
• Blood Sugar Control: Semaglutide helps maintain stable blood glucose levels, which is beneficial for a myriad of reasons.
• Potential Cardiovascular Benefits: Semaglutide has been shown to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events (like heart attack or stroke) in patients with Type 2 diabetes.

Administration and Dosage

• Forms: Semaglutide is available as a once-weekly injection at Quali-T Men’s Health in West Salem, OR. 
• Dosing: Doses are generally started low and gradually increased to help the body adjust and minimize side effects. Dosage schedules will be tailored by our healthcare provider based on individual needs.
• Timing: Injected once weekly, ideally on the same day each week. 

How to Administer Semaglutide Injections

• Injection Site: The medication can be injected subcutaneously in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
• Further injection education will be provided by our provider at your visit. 

Potential Side Effects

Common side effects are generally mild and tend to improve as the body adjusts. These may include:

• Nausea (most common), especially when starting the medication. We will provide you with an anti-nausea medication to help combat this. 
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Constipation
• Decreased appetite

Severe but Rare Side Effects:

• Pancreatitis: Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
• Kidney Problems: Semaglutide may exacerbate kidney issues in certain individuals. Be sure to drink enough water!
• Gallbladder Disease: Risk of gallstones or other gallbladder problems may be increased.

Who Should Avoid Semaglutide?

• Personal or Family History of Medullary Thyroid Cancer: GLP-1 receptor agonists are not recommended for individuals with certain types of thyroid cancer.
• History of Pancreatitis: Semaglutide may increase the risk of pancreatitis in those with a history.
• Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women: Effects on pregnancy are not fully understood, so semaglutide is typically avoided.

Patient Guidelines

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking water can help alleviate nausea and support kidney function.
• Adopt a Healthy Diet: Avoiding fatty and heavy meals may reduce nausea and support weight loss. Focus on high protein and fiber foods to avoid muscle loss and constipation. 
• Monitor for Symptoms: Report any unusual symptoms (such as severe abdominal pain) to a healthcare provider immediately.
• Avoid Alcohol: Excessive alcohol can increase the risk of pancreatitis and gastrointestinal discomfort.

Expected Outcomes

• Weight Loss: Results vary, but patients see gradual weight loss over weeks to months.
• Blood Sugar Control: Regular use typically leads to improved HbA1c levels in individuals with Type 2 diabetes.
• Long-Term Cardiovascular Benefits: In patients with diabetes, semaglutide may lower cardiovascular risk over time.

Semaglutide can be a powerful tool for managing both obesity and Type 2 diabetes. However, it is essential to follow dosing and lifestyle recommendations closely and consult with a healthcare provider at Quali-T Men’s Health regularly to monitor progress and address any side effects.