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Semaglutide injections are a new FDA-approved prescription medication that have had a significant impact on the weight-loss industry because they are highly effective for many people. Weight loss is challenging. However, being overweight or obese increases your risk for several chronic health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, stroke, and immune conditions.
Semaglutide was developed to help manage blood glucose levels in people with diabetes. Over time, physicians recognized that patients were losing weight on the medication. This prompted research studies and a subsequent FDA approval of semaglutide for weight loss. We encourage you to call our office and schedule a consultation with our medical staff so you can learn more about our semaglutide weight loss program in Houston.
Semaglutide is a medication that mimics a hormone your body naturally produces, GLP-1. The drug binds to GLP-1 receptors in your body to trigger several effects. First, it increases insulin secretion in the pancreas when your blood sugar levels are high. This helps lower and manage glucose levels, which is crucial when you have diabetes.
The drug also decreases the amount of glucagon produced and released by your liver. Glucagon is a hormone that raises blood sugar when your body needs it. By lowering this hormone, semaglutide can help control insulin levels.
Semaglutide weight loss treatments in Houston slow the rate of your gastrointestinal tract’s movement, so food stays in your stomach longer, and you feel full longer. Slower digestion lowers your appetite and decreases the number of calories you eat. In addition to suppressing your appetite by keeping your stomach full, the drug affects areas in your brain that regulate hunger. This also helps you to eat less and promotes weight loss.
Most side effects of semaglutide occur in your gastrointestinal tract and are related to slow movement. The side effects can include nausea, vomiting, constipation, bloating, and gas. Many of these side effects lessen the longer you take the drug, which is why you typically start with a lower dose and gradually increase it. Other rare side effects can include gallbladder issues, pancreatitis, kidney problems, and allergic reactions.
The ideal candidate for semaglutide weight loss in Houston meets specific health criteria. You must have a body mass index of 30 or higher, which is classified as obese. You may qualify for treatment if you have a BMI of 27 or higher and have weight-related conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or Type 2 diabetes.
You must be willing to make the lifestyle changes required by the semaglutide weight loss program. Semaglutide injections are most effective when combined with these interventions.
Health conditions that would preclude you from using semaglutide injections for weight loss include a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2. If you currently take medications to lower your blood glucose, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a history of kidney disease or impairment, you are not a candidate for a semaglutide weight loss management program.
During your consultation, we will ask about certain health conditions. You must be transparent with us to reduce the risk of potential side effects or complications. We will ask about:
While you are taking semaglutide, you should stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. Check in with us if you begin to experience side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or excessive sweating.
We understand that weight loss is challenging. However, attaining your goal weight can significantly reduce your potential for health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. We encourage you to call our office today and schedule your consultation so you can learn more about semaglutide weight loss in Houston and how we can help you reach your goals.
