GLP-1 Medical Weight Loss with Semaglutide
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 peptide medication originally developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and marketed under brand names such as Ozempic® and Wegovy®. When combined with healthy diet and exercise, Semaglutide helps improve blood sugar control, supports significant weight loss, and reduces the risk of major cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes. In June 2021, the FDA approved a higher-dose Semaglutide (2.4 mg) injection specifically for the treatment of obesity. Unlike traditional stimulant-based weight loss medications, GLP-1 drugs such as Semaglutide can be used in many patients with cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes, helping them improve both weight and overall health. At Frontline Alternative Medicine, we offer medically supervised GLP-1 weight loss programs with Semaglutide and can also discuss other GLP-1 options such as Tirzepatide or newer agents like Retatrutide when clinically appropriate.
Semaglutide (2.4 mg/mL) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist used as a treatment for obesity and type 2 diabetes. Clinical studies have shown that it is highly effective for medical weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes. Semaglutide is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous (under the skin) injection.
Patients on Semaglutide have reported losing substantial amounts of weight, in some cases 50–100 lbs or more over time. Longer clinical trials show average weight loss in the range of 12–20% of total body weight for many patients. To minimize gastrointestinal side effects, patients start at a lower dose and gradually increase the dosage over 8–15 weeks as tolerated.
Semaglutide is one of several GLP-1 medications used for weight loss. Other emerging GLP-1 and GIP/GLP-1 agents, such as Tirzepatide and newer options like Retatrutide, may also be discussed based on your individual health profile and goals.
Research in journals such as The New England Journal of Medicine and FDA approvals support the safety and effectiveness of GLP-1 medications like Semaglutide for long-term weight management when used under medical supervision.
Because Semaglutide is not a stimulant, it is often a great solution for patients who cannot take stimulant-based appetite suppressants such as phentermine. Stimulant medications are frequently avoided in patients with existing cardiovascular disease, while Semaglutide can help reduce cardiovascular risk in certain patients.
Semaglutide can be prescribed for adults with:
- A body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher (obesity), or
- A BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition, such as hypertension, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes.
It is especially helpful for patients whose weight places them at increased risk for serious cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke.
Like most medications, Semaglutide can cause side effects. The most commonly reported side effects include gastrointestinal upset and fatigue. Many patients notice that side effects improve after the first few weeks as the dose is adjusted and the body adapts.
Because it is not a stimulant, Semaglutide is a great solution for those who may not be able to take stimulant-based appetite suppressants such as phentermine. Stimulants are often not prescribed for patients who have existing cardiovascular disease as they can complicate these conditions. Semaglutide can actually reduce the risk of a cardiovascular event while also causing weight loss.
Semaglutide can be prescribed for adults with a BMI of 30, or adults with a BMI of 27 and at least one weight-related co-morbidity. Semaglutide is for patients who want to lose weight, especially patients with type 2 diabetes or whose weight puts them at risk of a serious cardiovascular event (like heart attack or stroke).
Like most medications, Semaglutide can have side effects. The most common report of side effects from patients have been gastrointestinal upset and fatigue. Of those who continue the medication an improvement in side effects after four weeks has been reported.
Semaglutide works in several ways to support weight loss. It slows the rate at which food leaves your stomach, which helps you feel full longer and can reduce overall calorie intake. This slower digestion also helps improve blood sugar control.
Semaglutide also stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin in response to meals, helping to remove excess sugar from the bloodstream.
Patients taking Semaglutide commonly report a reduced appetite and fewer cravings for sweets and high-calorie foods. Many also find that overeating while on Semaglutide leads to uncomfortable gastrointestinal side effects, which naturally discourages overeating and supports healthier habits.
You should be aware of the potential side effects of Semaglutide before starting treatment. The incidence of side effects is usually highest in the first four weeks, especially during dose increases, and often improves over time. Common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
Overeating or choosing high-fat, high-sugar foods while taking Semaglutide can increase the intensity of side effects. Eating smaller portions and focusing on lower-calorie, lower-sugar foods has been reported to significantly reduce discomfort.
Semaglutide is not considered safe for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. Your provider will review your medical history and discuss any additional risks specific to you before starting therapy.
For many patients, the best results come from combining GLP-1 weight loss therapy with other supportive treatments. We may recommend testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for men with low T, and nutritional support to help improve energy, metabolism, and long-term success with weight management.