Here are some of our FAQs
Are these medications proven weight loss treatments?
Semaglutide, the drug used in Wegovy and Ozempic, has been shown to support weight loss and long-term weight management in multiple studies.
What are GLP-1 medications and are they safe?
All GLP-1s are clinically-tested, stimulant-free, and non-habit forming. GLP-1s address the underlying biology that is most important for weight loss, and help lower your set point, or the weight your body fights to stay at. GLP-1s are powerful, naturally-occurring hormones made by your gut that send signals to your brain to decrease your appetite, improve your metabolic system, and regulate your digestion so you can feel full longer and maximize nutrient absorption.
How do GLP-1 medications work?
GLP-1s are powerful hormones made by your small intestine that send signals to your brain and other parts of your metabolic system. They regulate your insulin response and regulate your appetite and digestion so you can feel full longer while maximizing nutritional absorption.
How much weight can I expect to lose?
In a 68-week medical study of 1,961 adults living with obesity or excess weight, and who also had a related medical problem, lost an average of 15% of their body weight while taking semaglutide. In a different study, tirzepatide helped patients help lose 15 – 20% of their overall weight, depending on the dosage used.
Who is not eligible?
GLP-1 use is safe and effective with many pre-existing conditions with the exception of the following:
Currently pregnant
Currently breastfeeding
Currently being treated for cancer
Active eating disorder
Active gallbladder disease
Active substance abuse or dependency
Type 1 diabetes
Bariatric surgery (within the past 18 months)
Pancreatitis within the past 6 months, or a history of pancreatiitis caused by taking a GLP-1
Personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN syndrome
Personal history of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
What are the side effects?
Side effects for GLP-1s may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, upset stomach, dizziness, constipation, feeling bloated, belching, gas, headaches and fatigue. If you do experience side effects, they usually subside after a few weeks of your body getting used to the medication. Each patient will receive prescription medication to help combat the side effects should they arise along with directions on dosage to help keep side effects to a minimum. In the most recent clinical trials, less than 5% of people discontinued GLP-1 medications because of side effects
What should I do if I feel nauseous?
We recommend that patients maintain the current dose, or lower the dose until symptoms resolve. All patients will be prescribed medication to alleviate nausea.
Do I have to follow a specific diet?
You do not have to follow a specific, restrictive diet but you will lose more weight if you eat a well-balanced diet full of whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats and fiber. You’ll create better habits that will also help you keep the weight off.
Do I need to exercise?
Our goal is to create healthy habits for long-term health. Exercise is not a requirement, but something we strongly encourage. Movement is key to good health and patients have reported that exercise becomes easier as they start losing weight.
Will I gain weight back when I'm done?
This program will help you lose unwanted weight and put your body in weight-loss mode. Some patients continue for over six months depending on the amount of weight they want to lose. We will create a maintenance plan for you once you reach your goal weight, but like everything else in life, it’s up to you. Most patients adopt a healthier lifestyle as they start shedding weight because they feel good and want to continue the new habits they have adopted.
Call the office to get started!
