GLP-1 Medication therapy

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GLP-1 therapies are FDA-approved weight loss medication therapies.  The medications are administered once weekly via subcutaneous injection and produce an average weight loss of 50 lb over 6 months of treatment. 

GLP-1 therapy for weight loss slows the emptying of the stomach by binding to the receptors that are located in the lining of the stomach. The slower emptying of the stomach sends a signal of fullness to the brain. This helps reduce your food intake and decreases your appetite, two things that are necessary for weight loss, because you feel full and are less likely to want to eat. 

Semaglutide is an FDA-approved weight loss medication.  The medications are administered once weekly via subcutaneous injection and produce an average weight loss of 50 lbs over 6 months of treatment. It belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which work by increasing insulin release and reducing glucose production in the liver.

Tirzepatide is a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist.  It works by regulating insulin and glucagon, leading to reduced appetite, delayed gastric emptying, and improved glucose control, all contributing to weight loss.

You individual weight loss depends on many biologic factors including the duration and dosages that you receive.  While individual results may vary, customers may potentially achieve up to 30 pounds in the first three months of treatment, and possibly 50 pounds after 6 months.

GLP-1 therapy is suitable for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher or those with a BMI of 27 or above who also have a weight-related condition, such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. 

To begin, all you need to do is schedule your initial appointment.  Once your appointment is confirmed, you will be sent health questionnaires via email to be completed. Your answers are reviewed by our medical team, who will decide if you are eligible for treatment.

Yes, prior to the initiation of any medication we do ask that basic labs are drawn.   These pre-treatment labs help us establish a baseline understanding of your current health status, including glucose levels, kidney function, lipid profile, and liver function. By gathering this comprehensive data, we can tailor a treatment plan to suit your specific needs, minimize potential risks, and monitor any potential side effects more effectively.    We will order these directly for you to Quest Diagnostics.  

Your virtual consultation, prescription, medication and 2 day refrigerated shipping are included in your plan. 

To request a refill of your medication, simply click here to fill out our online refill request form. Complete the necessary details, and a member of our team will process your request promptly.  Please be sure to request your refill well in advance to avoid running out of your medication.

Dosages of GLP-1 medications for weight loss vary and are determined based on individual factors.  You will be prescribed an appropriate starting dose, and titrated up gradually to achieve optimal results while minimizing potential side effects.

Your shipment will arrive monthly, after we review your progress and issue the next prescription. You will always have medicine on hand to continue your journey. 

Store the medication in the refrigerator (60°-77°F) and keep away from light.  Leave it in the original vial until ready to inject.  It is not recommended to draw up doses ahead of time. 

In most patients, weight loss is steady for 16 months before leveling off.  Together, we will establish a goal weight prior to initiating therapy.  Therapy is tapered off when the goal weight is reached.  A healthy weight can be maintained once therapy has ended if lifestyle changes that include diet and exercise are continued.  Any and all weight loss therapies have the potential for rebound weight gain, if lifestyle changes are not sustained. 

The injectable form is dosed once a week.  If the next scheduled dose is 2 or more days away, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it.  It the next scheduled dose is less than 48 hours away, skip the dose and continue with your regular schedule.  Do not take 2 doses within 48 hours of each other. 

Most of the effects and side effects of Semaglutide are dose dependent.  Taking too much may cause severe nausea, vomiting or low blood sugar.  Low blood sugar can be a medical emergency, especially in patients also taking insulin.   

In the event of an emergency, seek medical attention immediately or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Typically, patients notice the onset of effects (a decrease in their appetite) within 5-10 days of starting therapy.  It may take as long as 4 to 5 weeks to reach the maximal effectiveness for a particular dose. 

There is no known test or biological marker that accurately predicts an individual’s response to therapy.

Disappointing results are often due to:

• Not following a strict enough diet and exercise regimen. Lifestyle changes are necessary for optimal results.
• Not giving it enough time. Most people start losing weight within the first 4 weeks, but some people take longer.
• The dose is not high enough. To reduce the risk of side effects, therapy is usually started at a low dose, then gradually increased. Dose changes are not recommended in intervals of less than 4 weeks.  It typically takes about 4 months of therapy to reach the final maintenance dose.
• Skipping or forgetting doses. Choose a specific time of day to take the medication and adhere to the schedule. If you are intentionally skipping doses because of side effects, notify your doctor of the issue. Most side effects become less bothersome over time.
• Other existing health conditions may be hindering weight loss.

There are no specific foods to avoid, but as part of a healthier diet, you should cut down on foods high in fat, sugar and calories.  Foods that are fried, fatty, spicy or high in sugar are more likely to cause upset stomach or nausea.  Because of the delay in gastric emptying, larger meals may not be well tolerated.  Try eating smaller meals and eating more slowly.  For most people, stomach upset or diarrhea is temporary and usually resolves within a few weeks after starting treatment.

It is not uncommon for patients to report temporary changes in their taste during therapy.

Typical descriptions include:

• Food tasting too salty
• Salads, chips, coffee, or dark chocolate tasting exceptionally bitter
• A metallic taste in the mouth whenever they eat
• Food tasting distorted or weird
• An unpleasant sulfur smell or taste
• Changes in taste preferences
• Their mouth feeling dry

If you choose to drink alcohol, only drink in moderation (no more than 1-2 drinks per day).  Alcohol can alter blood sugar levels and is very high in calories.  If you have other coexisting medical conditions, especially diabetes, consult with your doctor before consuming alcohol. 

Nausea is one of the most common side effects and is most prevalent when starting treatment or increasing the dose. Most patients tolerate the degree of nausea fairly well and it typically improves over time.

If nausea is particularly bothersome:

• Eat smaller meals and avoid fatty food, fried food, and foods high in sugar.
• Limit spicy or acidic foods.
• Eat more slowly.

Compounds are pharmacist-prepared, custom medications designed to meet the unique needs of patients.  Healthcare professionals often choose to prescribe compounded medications when mass-produced, commercially manufactured products don’t fit a patient’s individual needs.

Our pharmacy is regulated by State Boards of Pharmacy and strictly adheres to USP standards (United States Pharmacopeia).  All the ingredients used in our compounds only come from FDA registered facilities.

Nausea: Some patients may experience nausea, particularly when starting treatment or with dose adjustments. This side effect often improves over time. 

Vomiting: Vomiting may occur, especially during the initial stages of treatment. It's important to stay hydrated and contact a healthcare provider if vomiting persists. 

Diarrhea: Maintaining a balanced diet and adequate fluid intake may help manage this side effect. 

Constipation: Increasing dietary fiber and fluid intake can help alleviate this symptom. 

Decreased Appetite: These medications work by increasing feelings of fullness, which can lead to a decrease in appetite.  

Hypoglycemia: GLP-1 medications can lower blood sugar levels, which may result in hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). This risk is higher when used in combination with other diabetes medications. 

Injection Site Reactions: Injection site reactions, such as redness, swelling, or itching, may occur. Rotating injection sites and proper injection technique can help minimize discomfort. 

Headache: Ensuring adequate hydration and managing stress levels may help alleviate this symptom. 

Dizziness: Patients should rise slowly from a seated or lying position to minimize this risk. 

Pancreatitis: Although rare, GLP-1 medications have been associated with an increased risk of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Patients should seek medical attention if they experience persistent abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting. 

Gallbladder Disease: GLP-1 medications may increase the risk of gallbladder-related complications, such as gallstones or inflammation. Patients with a history of gallbladder disease should discuss the risks and benefits with their healthcare provider. 

Thyroid Tumors: Long-term use of GLP-1 medications in animal studies has shown an increased risk of thyroid tumors. While the relevance to humans is unclear, patients should be monitored for thyroid nodules or abnormalities. 

Notify your provider immediately if you notice a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath. These could be symptoms of thyroid cancer.

Semaglutide is contraindicated if you or any of your family members have ever had medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), or if you suffer from an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).

The safety and efficacy of combining semaglutide with other weight loss products have not been established.

Sharing your complete medical history with your provider is crucial. Specifically, inform your provider if you have a history of:

• Type 1 or type 2 diabetes
• Thyroid cancer
• Pancreatitis
• Kidney disease
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Depression
• Suicidal thoughts or behavior