Semaglutide Usage & Side Effects
How semaglutide works
Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications called incretin mimetics. These medications mimic incretin hormones, which are the hormones released whenever it senses food ingestion. This then helps the pancreas regulate the release of insulin into the body, which helps your body more effectively use sugar as energy. Thus, this process is why semaglutide is used to treat Type II diabetes.
Additionally, during the aforementioned process, semaglutide helps to slow the movement of food through the digestive system. It also can help speed up the metabolism, promoting weight loss.
Semaglutide is administered via injection under the skin. Generally, patients learn to give themselves the weekly injections. Like other diabetes medications, patients must rotate the injection sites for each dose. The injections themselves are very simple, and come pre-dosed for each patient. During the appointment, the registered nurse or physician assistant will teach exactly how to give the injection.
As with any medication, semaglutide may cause some side effects. Side effects are generally mild and temporary. If severe or abnormal side effects take place (which are very rare), seek the proper medical care and contact your provider.
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Heart burn
- Burping
FAQs
Q: “Can semaglutide increase cancer risks?”
Some animal studies indicate that regular semaglutide use may increase the risk of certain thyroid cancers. However, the risk appears to be minimal. If a patient is at higher risk of thyroid cancer before starting semaglutide, they may consider using a different medication. Overall, semaglutide does not increase the risk of cancer.
Q: “How long will the side effects last?”
The most noticeable side effects will occur in the first few weeks after starting the medication. Over this period, they tend to become less severe and frequent. Most patients see significant improvement or cessation of side effects after three to four weeks.
Q: “Are the side effects long term? If I stop taking semaglutide, will the side effects continue?”
In most cases, side effects of semaglutide are not long term. Some patients may experience some minor side effects during their entire treatment course. However, these are generally mild and manageable. If a patient stops taking semaglutide, the side effects should not continue. They may stick around for a short period of time as the body metabolizes the medication. However, about a week or two of stopping the medication, side effects should stop.
Q: “Is there thyroid dangers from taking semaglutide?”
Potentially, though it is likely a small risk. Some studies have shown an increased risk of certain thyroid cancers when using semaglutide long term. However, this was observed during studies in rats and the human risk is likely small. If a patient has a thyroid disorder or higher risk of thyroid cancer for other reasons, they may consider other options.
Q: “If I’m not a diabetic, will it affect my health if I’m taking semaglutide?”
As long as patients use semaglutide as prescribed and instructed, there is unlikely to be negative health effects. Patients undergo an initial consultation with a medical professional to ensure semaglutide is safe and unlikely to harm one’s health.
Q: “Can semaglutide cause fatigue?”
Yes, semaglutide can temporarily cause fatigue because it results in the patient eating fewer calories. This should improve as the body adjusts to these changes. As long as the patient stays hydrated, we generally do not see fatigue being an issue. We also offer B12 supplement injections, which can greatly improve fatigue!
Q: “What is the safety record of semaglutide?”
Semaglutide is widely considered safe. There are no major safety concerns. The medication is used to treat Type II diabetes and obesity. In general, the benefits of the medication outweigh the risk of adverse effects.
Q: “Can semaglutide cause loss of muscle mass?”
It is possible. However, this is common in this class of medication. Major muscle mass loss is unlikely and patients can help preserve muscle mass with regular exercise and weight lifting.
Q: “If I stop taking semaglutide, will I gain the weight right back?”
Some rebound weight gain is likely if/when you stop taking semaglutide. However, if a health lifestyle including exercise and diet are curated while using semaglutide, patients will have an easier time maintaining weight loss. This is why our BriteBody weight loss program does not focus solely on semaglutide.
Q: “If I take semaglutide for weight loss, does that mean less for someone who’s suffering from diabetes and is in need?”
Initially there was a shortage of semaglutide in the market, however, this has largely been remedied and so everyone in need of the drug can now access it. Also, Ozempic is what is given to patients needing the medication. We compound Semaglutide through a sterile pharmacy, meaning this is not the same medication a diabetic patient would take.
Q: “Is semaglutide an injection or can I take it in pill form?”
When used for weight loss, semaglutide is an injection. There are oral forms of semaglutide, but they are not as potent as the injection.
Q: “How long before I start seeing results?”
The time it takes to see weight loss from semaglutide injections will vary between patients. On average, weight loss becomes noticeable after about eight to twelve weeks. Though, the numbers on the scale may decline before then. Patients who also maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine are more likely to see quicker results.
Q: “Where should I inject semaglutide?”
Semaglutide is injected into the upper arm, stomach, or thighs. The patient should rotate their injection site each week. If injecting into the same area, ensure to inject away from the last injection site.
Q: “Can I buy semaglutide cheaper from other sources?”
Probably, but there is no guarantee that what you are injecting is sterile semaglutide, is not contaminated, and is adequately monitored. Therefore, it is safer to see a qualified provider to help craft a semaglutide weight loss plan, monitor weight loss, and evaluate for side effects.
Q: “Will semaglutide interfere with the vitamin pills and herbal supplements I take?”
Generally, no, semaglutide should not interfere with your current supplements or medications. However, you will need to discuss what medications you take during your consultation to ensure a safe and effective treatment. Sometimes, neither medication needs to be ceased, but the doses adjusted.
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