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Is Semaglutide right for you?
In 2021 the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved semaglutide injection for chronic weight management in adults. The interest in learning more about semaglutide has grown exponentially over the past two years. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the prevalence of overweight and obesity has tripled since the 1970s, with nearly 40% of adults being overweight and 13% struggling with obesity. These numbers have been steadily increasing. Losing as little as 5% of your weight, a proper diet, and exercise have proven to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
What is semaglutide? Is it effective for weight loss?
Your body naturally produces several substances that affect your appetite. One of these is called GLP-1. GLP-1 is a hormone that is created when you eat. It stops you from feeling hungry and makes you feel full. It also improves your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels.
Furthermore, it slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach, causing you to feel full. Because semaglutide reduces feelings of hunger, it helps you eat less food. This helps to reduce your body weight when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
According to research, when combined with lifestyle changes, weekly injections resulted in a mean 10%-15% weight loss. More than 70% lost 5% or more of their weight. There is a risk of gaining weight back upon discontinuation, if lifestyle changes are not continued.
Who Should Not Take Semaglutide?
Discussing your personal and family history with your healthcare provider is vital, as semaglutide should not be used in candidates with a history of certain types of cancer.
Other potential medical history risks include:
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Previous severe allergic reactions to semaglutide
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Symptoms of pancreatitis or gallstones
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Pregnancy
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Kidney Disease
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Conditions that cause a fast heart rate (tachycardia)
How can I get started on semaglutide?
A professional healthcare provider must prescribe Semaglutide (under the brand name Wegovy or Ozempic). Adults qualify with a BMI greater than or equal to 30 alone or 27 with at least one weight-related condition such as Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. The cost of semaglutide can vary depending on several factors, including your insurance coverage and the rates at your local pharmacy. You can also explore your options with the VitaOasis Infusion & Wellness professional team here.
There currently is no generic brand of semaglutide on the market, which tends to drive availability and cost. If you have insurance coverage (and they will pay), you may pay as little as $25 for a monthly medication supply; without insurance, you could pay $1,350 or more.
Final Thoughts
Weight loss and making healthier choices is difficult. Allowing yourself to change your mindset and modify your eating habits may result in many failures along the way before you see improvement. Don’t let that discourage you! It’s understandable to need help in reaching your goal. Semaglutide is a safe, effective option for many. Though semaglutide may be an option for you, it is not for everyone. You should consult with your healthcare provider to review your risk factors and discuss a long-range plan to keep the weight off semaglutide, along with a healthy diet and a prescribed exercise plan.
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