Ozempic® (semaglutide) became a household name in early 2022 after going “viral” across the social media platform TikTok. While Ozempic (semaglutide) is not new, it wasn’t a household name. Ozempic (semaglutide) is prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes. After several studies showed it to have a significant impact on weight loss as well, the FDA-approved semaglutide for use for patients with obesity. Novo Nordisk manufactures Wegovy, a semaglutide prescribed to treat obesity.
What Is Ozempic® (Semaglutide)?
Ozempic (semaglutide) is a weekly injectable medication that is part of the GLP-1 class of medications manufactured by Novo Nordisk, the same company that manufactures Wegovy. Ozempic (semaglutide) was approved by the FDA in 2017 to treat people with type 2 diabetes.
Semaglutide is the same active ingredient for both Ozempic® and Wegovy®. Ozempic is a semaglutide prescribed for treatment of type 2 diabetes and Wegovy is a semaglutide prescribed for treatment of obesity. Unfortunately, people being treated for obesity often have difficulty receiving insurance coverage or reimbursement for weight loss medications beyond using a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA). Options Medical Weight Loss is uniquely positioned to offer compounded GLP-1, a semaglutide medication, from trusted pharmacies whose formula has been analyzed by the FDA. The GLP-1, semaglutide, offered to Options patients is affordable and proven safe and effective.
How GLP-1 Medications Work
GLP-1 medications, semaglutide, simulate the natural hormone produced in the intestines that helps people feel full after they eat. It also stimulates insulin secretion which allows cells to take up glucose and inhibits glucagon secretion, which prevents more glucose from being released into the bloodstream. All this lowers blood sugar levels.
GLP-1s, semaglutides, also increase satiety (how full you feel) after eating, which helps contribute to its weight loss properties. There’s also evidence that they contribute to weight loss by lowering the body’s natural “set point” for weight. (Source: obesitymedicine.com)
What Medications Simulate GLP-1?
There are several popular medications promoted today that simulate GLP-1, including semaglutide, Wegovy®, Ozempic®, Rybelsus®, Saxenda®, Victoza®, Trulicity®, Zepbound™ and Mounjaro® (Tirzepatide). Semaglutide is the same active ingredient in FDA-approved Wegovy, and Ozempic.
Efficacy of GLP-1, Semaglutide Medications 
Studies show most patients taking GLP-1 medications for weight loss are losing between 15-20% of their body weight. Weight reduction helped by GLP-1 medications are approaching the rates of long-term success observed after bariatric surgery. GLP-1 medications are most effective when combined with the Options Diet System ™ and daily activity.
After 6 months on an Options program, the average Options patient loses 17% of their body weight. Options weight loss health coaches customize nutrition and activity recommendations based on the patient’s experience and responses to the program. They also give guidance on sleep habits, stress and other factors that impact weight management. Options medical providers titrate the dosage based on the patient’s body response to the medication. This individualized care and one-on-one support sets Options Medical Weight Loss apart from the rest.
Dosing Information
GLP-1 medication, semaglutide, is prescribed in doses that increase every 4 weeks. Administration of medication is subcutaneously in the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen. Options patients start their programs receiving administration of their semaglutide medication in the clinic and transition to self-administration after 8 weeks.
Side Effects of a GLP-1 Medications
Common side effects of GLP-1 medication are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, or headache. The most common side effect you may experience when you first start a GLP-1 medication is nausea. This usually gets better as your body gets used to the medicine.
If you do experience nausea, here are some things that may help:
- Take in conjunction with a lipotropic injection.
- Eat bland, low-fat foods, like crackers, toast, and rice.
- Avoid fatty or greasy foods.
- Eat foods that contain water, like soups and gelatin.
- Don’t lie down after you eat.
- Go outside to get some fresh air.
Reminders About Treating Obesity with Semaglutide
Any medical weight loss program should be overseen by a medical provider. Meeting with your primary care physician before starting a weight loss program is best. All Options Medical Weight Loss programs are overseen and led by an obesity-certified medical provider.
Interested in seeing how an Options weight loss program can change your life?
Schedule a free consultation and metabolic analysis today.