You’ve probably heard a lot about weight loss injections lately — from news headlines to social media posts; it seems like they’re the talk of the town. But what’s the deal? Are they the secret to effortless weight loss or just another fad?
Well, let’s get one thing straight right away. While weight loss injections can be a game-changing tool in your weight loss journey, they’re not some magic cure-all that will instantly transform your body. And as with any medication, there are potential risks and side effects to discuss with your healthcare provider. So let’s tackle the details of these intriguing products and answer some of the most common questions about weight loss injections.
What are weight loss injections?
A few different types are available, but the most popular are Semaglutide (name brands include Ozempic, Rybelsus and Wegovy) and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro). Recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), these medications work in unique ways. Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist while Tirzepatide an acylated peptide engineered to activate the GIP and GLP-1 receptors. Both medications help to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce appetite, which can lead to weight loss over time.
How do Semaglutide and Tirzepatide injections work for weight loss?
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide injections target hormones in the body that regulate your appetite and blood sugar, which can reduce appetite, increase feelings of fullness and decrease overall food intake. The medications also slow down the rate at which food leaves the stomach and enters the small intestine, which keeps blood sugar levels steady and reduces insulin resistance. These effects cause significant weight loss over time.
In scientific terms, Semaglutide works by mimicking the effects of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in the body. Semaglutide stimulates insulin secretion and reduces the secretion of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels. Tirzepatide is a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and GLP-1 receptor agonist, which means it works by targeting two different hormones that regulate blood sugar and appetite.
By targeting these hormones, both medications can help promote weight loss in individuals who are struggling to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. Clinical trials have shown that both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide can lead to significant weight loss in people who are obese or overweight. According to clinical trials reported in Nature, Semaglutide was found to be effective in reducing body weight by an average of 15% over two years, making it one of the most effective weight loss treatments available. Lilly reported in their clinical trials that participants taking Tirzepatide achieved average weight reductions of 16% on 5 mg, 21.4% on 10 mg and 22.5% on 15 mg, compared to 2.4% for the placebo. In addition to weight loss, Tirzepatide has been found to improve glucose control and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in people with obesity, according to another journal article in Nature.
Who is a good candidate for Semaglutide and Tirzepatide injections?
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide injections are typically recommended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher or those with a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one obesity-related condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
It’s important to note that these injections are not a quick fix for weight loss and should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise plan. Your healthcare provider can help determine if Semaglutide or Tirzepatide injections are a good fit for you based on your individual health needs and goals.
What are the benefits and risks of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide injections?
One of the main benefits of weight loss injections such as Semaglutide and Tirzepatide is that they offer a new option for people struggling with obesity who have not been successful with other weight loss methods. According to UCLA Health, these drugs can be highly effective in promoting weight loss, improving glucose control and reducing the risk of other obesity-related complications, such as high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. They are also convenient to use, as they require only weekly injections.
However, like any medication, there are also risks associated with these injections. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and decreased appetite. Rare but more serious side effects include pancreatitis, kidney problems and low blood sugar levels.
Medical Daily reports that one potential risk of rapid weight loss is the loss of lean mass as well as fat mass. While weight loss injections are designed to target fat loss, they can also lead to muscle loss, especially if not accompanied by exercise and a balanced diet.
Another concern is the potential for dependence on weight loss injections. Some people may become reliant on the injections to maintain their weight loss and find it difficult to stop using them without regaining the weight they lost. However, it’s important to note that weight loss injections are typically used as part of a comprehensive weight loss program that includes diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
It’s important to note that while these side effects can be serious, they are relatively rare and occur in only a small percentage of patients. It’s also important for patients to discuss any potential risks and side effects with their healthcare provider before starting weight loss injections and to report any unusual symptoms or side effects.
How long does it take to see results from weight loss injections?
Results from weight loss injections can vary from person to person and may depend on factors such as diet, exercise, and overall health. However, many people may begin to see weight loss results within the first few weeks of starting weight loss injections, with significant weight loss occurring over several months.
Do I need a prescription for weight loss injections?
Yes, weight loss injections such as Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are prescription medications and can only be obtained with a prescription from a healthcare provider.
Are weight loss injections covered by insurance?
Shaman’s Leawood Total Wellness does not submit to insurance. We send the prescription to trusted compounding pharmacies. Therefore, all initial payments will be out of pocket.
Reimbursement of the costs for your compounded medication may or may not be possible through your insurer. Generally speaking, reimbursement may only be available when you use an in-network pharmacy. But if a pharmacy is filling a prescription for a compounded drug, it may be considered out-of-network.
Insurance policies can be complicated. You can find out more about your reimbursement opportunities when you speak to your health insurance provider.
Insurance coverage for weight loss injections can vary widely. It’s important for patients to work with their insurance company to determine their coverage options and eligibility for weight loss injections.
Can weight loss injections be used in conjunction with other weight loss methods?
Yes, weight loss injections can and should be used in combination with other weight loss methods, such as diet and exercise, to achieve more significant weight loss results. However, discussing potential interactions with your healthcare provider before combining weight loss methods is essential.
How to get started with Semaglutide and Tirzepatide injections for weight loss?
Before starting Semaglutide or Tirzepatide injections for weight loss, consult your healthcare provider. They will evaluate your health history, current medications, and overall health goals to determine if these injections are a safe and effective option for you.
If you are deemed a good candidate for these injections, your doctor can then prescribe them and provide guidance on how to administer them properly. They will also monitor your progress, and it’s important to follow their advice closely and continue to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine for optimal results.
Consult Shaman’s Leawood Total Wellness
Whether it’s a few stubborn pounds or a drastic lifestyle change, our medical professionals are here to help you improve your health safely and effectively with a customized weight loss plan for your body’s specific needs.
At Shaman’s Leawood Total Wellness, your personal weight loss journey will be specialized and unique to you. Although our primary goal is to help you reach your target weight, we also realize the importance of maintaining your weight loss. We will monitor your progress and make the necessary adjustments that will allow you to best achieve your short and long-term goals.
Our medical professionals thoroughly evaluate each client’s needs and provide a combination of some or all of the following techniques:
- Prescription weight loss injections
- Prescription appetite suppressants
- Lipotropic injections
- Weight loss coaching
The first step is your complimentary consultation, during which we will take these steps:
- Discuss your health history in detail
- Discuss your personal goals
- Create a customized plan that’s right for you
The next step is a comprehensive physical exam that includes full bloodwork. Then, you’ll sign up for our medical weight loss program, which includes follow-ups monthly or as determined by your provider. During these meetings your vitals and prescription meds are evaluated. You will have a medical professional’s support all the way.
Curious about getting started? Give us a call or send a text to (913) 227-9150, and we will get back to you!
