What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) analog approved in 2017 as a treatment method for
improving glycemic control in patients with Type 2 diabetes. Semaglutide shows great promise for patients
who are having difficulty losing weight.
Studies have demonstrated that Semaglutide reduced appetite, improved control of eating, and reduced
food cravings in addition to improved glycemic control. The greatest weight loss benefits were observed
when Semaglutide is used in combination with lifestyle changes, such as improved diet and consistent
exercise.

**The drug is indicated for chronic weight management in patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or greater who have at least one weight-related ailment or in patients with a BMI of 30 or greater.

Pyridoxine is also known as vitamin B6. It’s a water-soluble vitamin. Like the other B vitamins, it helps make energy in your body.

Vitamin B6 plays a role in the metabolism of protein, carbohydrates and fats, and the production of neurotransmitters.  It does an excellent job at turning food into energy.

This vitamin also helps to treat nausea. 

Cyanocobalamin is a form of vitamin B12. 

Your body needs vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) to break down fat and carbohydrates for energy, and to make proteins and cells. It is especially important for the health of your red blood cells and nerve cells.

B12 can also help reduce nausea.

How does Semaglutide work?

Semaglutide, initially used for diabetes and known as Ozempic, is a once-weekly subcutaneous injection that acts as a GLP-1 agonist. GLP-1 agonists were first developed to support better blood sugar management in type 2 diabetics by encouraging the growth of beta cells in the pancreas, which produce insulin, when combined with diet and exercise. Studies have also explored the effects of higher doses of semaglutide in non-diabetic individuals, revealing significant shifts in body composition. Semaglutide functions by slowing down how quickly the stomach empties through a glucose-dependent reduction in glucagon. This mechanism can influence appetite and eating patterns, contributing to positive changes in overall health. Beyond its original use, semaglutide has been associated with potential neuroprotective and cardiovascular benefits, as well as possible positive effects on fertility, PCOS, and smoking cessation.

• Delays stomach emptying, leading to a feeling of fullness and smaller meal size

• Slows intestinal motility

• Lowers blood sugars, in part by reducing the production of sugar in the liver

• Stimulates insulin secretion by the pancreas

How much Semaglutide do I inject?

Patients will begin with the lowest recommended dose titrating up as tolerance grows. 

Injections will be administered once weekly.

Pyridoxine/Sodium Semaglutide is injected under the skin (subQ) in your stomach, thigh, or upper arm one time each week, on the same day each week at any time of day.

Semaglutide, initially used for diabetes and known as Ozempic, is a once-weekly subcutaneous injection that acts as a GLP-1 agonist. GLP-1 agonists were first developed to support better blood sugar management in type 2 diabetics by encouraging the growth of beta cells in the pancreas, which produce insulin, when combined with diet and exercise. Studies have also explored the effects of higher doses of semaglutide in non-diabetic individuals, revealing significant shifts in body composition. Semaglutide functions by slowing down how quickly the stomach empties through a glucose-dependent reduction in glucagon. This mechanism can influence appetite and eating patterns, contributing to positive changes in overall health. Beyond its original use, semaglutide has been associated with potential neuroprotective and cardiovascular benefits, as well as possible positive effects on fertility, PCOS, and smoking cessation.

Reported Benefits:
• Improved body composition
• Neuroprotective
• Improved Fertility
• Treatment of PCOS
• Smoking Cessation
• Cardiovascular Benefits

Possible side effects and contraindications:

The most common side effects seen with Semaglutide during the clinical trials included gastrointestinal events commonly seen with this agent class and included nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, headache, fatigue, belching, indigestion bloating, heartburn, dyspepsia, dizziness, abdominal distension, eructation, hypoglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes, flatulence, gastroenteritis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease.

**** The risk of serious side effects increases in patients with hypoglycemia, kidney problems, and
risk of allergic reactions. 

Semaglutide will have a boxed warning on the potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors -- as do all  agents in the GLP-1 receptor agonist class. The drug should not be used in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or in patients with a rare condition called multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Patients with pancreatitis or at an increased risk of pancreatitis should not use Semaglutide.

This medication is not an insulin and should not be used and is not intended for use if:

• You have type 1 diabetes or if you develop diabetic ketoacidosis.
• You have personal or family history of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma, Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome Type 2
• You have a known allergy to Semaglutide
• You are currently breastfeeding or have a plan to breastfeed
• You are currently pregnant

There is also an increased risk of other complications, including:

• Gallbladder problems, such as gallstones
• Inflammation of the pancreas, known as pancreatitis
• Damage to the retina in the eye, known as diabetic retinopathy
• Kidney damage

Emsculpt can help optimize the benefits of Semaglutide and Super Slim shots in the following ways:

1. Muscle toning: Emsculpt can target specific muscle groups and induce powerful muscle contractions, helping to tone and strengthen those muscles. This can complement the effects of Semaglutide and Super Slim shots by improving overall body composition and enhancing muscle definition.

2. Metabolism boost: Emsculpt's intense muscle contractions stimulate a metabolic response in the body, leading to an increase in calorie burn. This can support the improved body composition effects of Semaglutide and
Super slim shots by further boosting the metabolic rate and aiding in fat reduction.

3. Motivation and adherence: Seeing visible improvements in muscle tone and body composition through Emsculpt can provide motivation and adherence to your health journey. The combination of Semaglutide, Super Slim shots, and Emsculpt can help you stay committed to your goals and maintain a healthy lifestyle. This can optimize the benefits of all three treatments.

Once you are evaluated by one of our providers, the medication will be ordered through our practice and shipped directly to our office for pick-up.