Semaglutide for Weight Loss: How It Works and What You Should Know

At True Medical Aesthetics, our dedicated team led by Tristen Durkin, is committed to providing our patients with the best treatments and medical advice. Among our various services, we also provide guidance and support for those looking to manage their weight or control associated chronic conditions.

One such medication that has proven effective for weight loss is semaglutide. Semaglutide operates by mimicking the natural hormones in your body responsible for blood sugar and digestion. It helps promote the feeling of fullness, reduces caloric intake, slows gastric emptying, increases energy expenditure, and improves glucose control.

At True Medical Aesthetics, we believe in a comprehensive approach to weight loss and diabetes management. When used alongside healthy dietary choices and regular exercise, semaglutide can be an effective tool in supporting these goals. However, as with any medication, semaglutide may have side effects and is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, we encourage all our patients to consult with our experienced healthcare providers before starting on any new medication.

Tristen Durkin is committed to helping patients achieve their wellness goals through personalized treatment plans. One option for patients struggling with weight management, particularly those who also have type 2 diabetes, is a medication called semaglutide.

Semaglutide is an FDA-approved drug for managing blood sugar levels and chronic weight management. However, it’s crucial to understand that this medication isn’t a first-line treatment for obesity. Durkin may prescribe it to patients who have tried diet and exercise modifications without success or those with a weight-related condition.

To evaluate whether semaglutide is the right fit for your weight management program, Durkin will conduct a thorough medical history assessment. The medication isn’t suitable for individuals with a history of certain conditions, including medullary thyroid carcinoma, Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2, pancreatitis, diabetic retinopathy, kidney issues, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

While semaglutide can assist with weight loss, it isn’t a standalone solution. It should be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet, increased physical activity, and proper hydration. For patients with a history of hypoglycemia, Durkin will closely monitor your glucose levels, as the medication can decrease blood sugar.

Semaglutide can cause mild side effects that are typically transient, such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain.

Before starting semaglutide, Tristen Durkin needs to know about any allergies, current health conditions, and all medications, supplements, and herbal products you’re taking to avoid potential interactions.

Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist that is typically administered via subcutaneous injection, or under the skin, once a week. Patients can self-administer this medication at home after initial guidance from our healthcare provider. The injection can be administered by the patient in either the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, and the injection site should be rotated each week to avoid irritation.

At True Medical Aesthetics, we guide patients on the dosage of semaglutide, starting from 0.25 mg once weekly and gradually increasing the dose based on weight loss goals and tolerability to a maximum of up to 2.4 mg once weekly. Our team ensures that the injection is administered on the same day each week and at a time most convenient for the patients.

When a patient misses a dose, we recommend administering it as soon as possible if they are within 5 days of the previously missed dose. If that period has passed, the missed semaglutide dose should be skipped, and the next dose should be administered on the regularly scheduled day.

Before injecting, our team instructs patients to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water, clean the injection site with an alcohol swab, and check the medication to ensure it is clear and colorless, with no visible particles. The needle will need to be inserted into the skin at a 45-degree angle, but not into a muscle or vein. The medication should be injected slowly and steadily, and the needle should subsequently be disposed of in a sharps container after the injection.

At True Medical Aesthetics, Tristen Durkin is dedicated to providing top-notch treatments and care to her patients. One of the promising medications she may consider for patients struggling with weight loss is semaglutide.

Semaglutide, primarily used for treating type 2 diabetes, has demonstrated significant results in promoting weight loss. Clinical trials have demonstrated individuals using semaglutide may expect to lose approximately 5-10% of their starting body weight, although this varies based on personal factors such as age, gender, initial weight, and lifestyle habits.

Durkin understands that the journey to weight loss is multifaceted. Therefore, she may recommend semaglutide as part of a comprehensive weight loss strategy that includes an improved diet and increased physical activity.

Semaglutide has also been known to improve blood sugar levels by enhancing the body’s insulin sensitivity. This is particularly beneficial for Durkin’s patients with type 2 diabetes. Besides, semaglutide can reduce cardiovascular risks, which aligns with Durkin’s commitment to overall cardiovascular health.

Unique to semaglutide is its ability to slow gastric emptying. This feature can support weight loss efforts by providing a feeling of fullness, reducing hunger cues, and improving satiety.

In addition to its weight loss benefits, semaglutide has anti-inflammatory properties, which can contribute to a healthier metabolic profile and reduce the risk of obesity-related complications. This aligns well with Durkin’s holistic approach to health and wellness. Semaglutide can also lead to improved energy levels, reduced stress, and enhanced self-esteem, contributing to an overall better quality of life for her patients. For more information, please contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 50 Avon Meadow Ln, Avon, CT 06001. We serve clients from Avon CT, Simsbury CT, Canton CT, Bloomfield CT, Farmington CT, Burlington CT, and surrounding areas.