Semaglutide (Ozempic) for Weight Loss
Approved by the FDA in June 2021, Semaglutide (Ozempic) can be suitable for people who fall into the category of overweight or obese who also have a comorbidity with another weight-related medical condition (such as high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, or high blood pressure. This medication is intended to accompany a reduced calorie diet and an exercise regiment. Semaglutide is the first weight management drug to be approved by the FDA since 2014 – and can be a game changer in sustained weight loss.
How Does Semaglutide (Ozempic) Work
Semaglutide mimics the hormone peptide-1 (GLP-1), which is responsible for enhancing insulin secretion and inhibiting glucagon release. In plain terms, Semaglutide increases feelings of satiation, helping the person taking this medication to feel less hungry. Peptide-1 works in the areas of the brain that regulate food intake and hunger, so taking a mimic of this hormone helps stave off feelings of hunger.
Less hunger can equal less eating, and the resulting caloric deficit can result in successful weight loss.
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Benefits
The biggest benefit of this medication is obviously the weight loss. Even small losses of weight can have big impacts on overall health. Health risks that overweight and obese people often encounter – including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke – can be decreased with even a modest weight loss.
Losing significant weight can put type 2 diabetes into remission, allowing patients to live their lives in a healthier way.
Many overweight and obese people find the task of losing weight to be daunting and may convince themselves that they can’t succeed, but having a medication prescribed that has been shown to effectively help in weight loss can be of great benefit. Semaglutide can help patients feel as though they can lose weight because they’re not doing it all alone.
How Is Semaglutide (Ozempic) Administered?
Semaglutide is a once-weekly injection that you do at home.
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Side Effects
Though rare, this medication can bring with it some unpleasant side effects. It’s important for patients to speak to their physicians about any adverse reactions encountered while taking this or any other medication.
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Burping
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
- Heartburn
Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include, but are not limited to, developing a rash, experiencing vision changes, lightheadedness or fainting, and the yellowing of skin or eyes while on this medication.
Are You a Candidate?
Obese adults and overweight adults with a weight-related medical condition can be good candidates for Semaglutide. Patients must also be willing to change their dietary and exercise habits for best results. Research has shown success with Semaglutide among a wide range of obese and overweight people, regardless of age, ethnicity, and starting BMI.
Is There Anyone That Cannot Take It?
Though effective, Semaglutide is not for everyone. This medication isn’t appropriate for patients with type 1 diabetes.
Obviously, if you are allergic to Semaglutide, you shouldn’t take it. The same is true if you are allergic to any of the following:
- Albiglutide
- Dulaglutide
- Exanatide
- Liraglutide
- Lixisenatide
Patients already taking a medication containing Semaglutide are likely ineligible for a Semaglutide prescription. Patients who have had (or who currently) have pancreatitis may not be eligible for this medication. Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should speak with their physician about whether or not Semaglutide is a good choice for them.
Semaglutide use can also lead to suicidal thoughts. It’s important that patients are frank with their physician about any history of suicidal ideation before taking this medication.
Patients who are unwilling to alter their diet, or add regular physical activity, may not be eligible for Semaglutide for weight loss.
Is Semaglutide (Ozempic) Covered by Insurance?
In most instances, Semaglutide is not covered by Medicare or insurance plans. Unfortunately, there’s also no generic version of this medication to help bring the cost down, but manufacturer and pharmacy coupons can help offset the cost.
Speak with your medical provider or pharmacist about potential cost-saving measures for this medication.
Cost of the Program
We’re often asked how much Semaglutide costs. Our pricing outlined below is all inclusive. It includes visits, medication's and supplies.
- Starting Dose (Month 1) Cost: $400
- Maintenance Dose (After Month 1) Cost: $350/mo
HSA payments are accepted, or you can pay out of pocket. We don’t bill insurance for this medication since in most cases, it’s not covered.
Get Started Today
Is Semagutide the solution to your weight issue? Call or schedule online for an initial consultation with Dr. Beck Nickel. If you decide the weight loss program isn’t right for you, there’s no fee for the consultation.
Schedule your consultation today to begin your medically supervised weight loss journey.
START YOUR SEMAGLUTIDE (OZEMPIC) PROGRAM TODAY
New Patients, choose a day and time to setup a QUICK free 10 minute video or phone consultation that can be done directly on your mobile device.
Returning Patients simply text your Doctor directly or book the appointment type of your choice.
Book with Dr. Beck Nickel, ND.
Convenient secure online appointments, from anywhere in Washington or Oregon, never sit in a waiting room!
Same week in office appointments always available in Spokane, WA
Lab Testing Required prior to certain treatments.
*Individual results may vary. The effectiveness of this product depends on various factors, including individual health conditions, adherence to a recommended regimen, and lifestyle choices. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any weight loss program or medication. Results are not guaranteed.