Semaglutide is an injectable prescription medication that helps people lose weight and keep it off. It works by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which sends signals of fullness to the brain and slows digestion. Semaglutide allows people to feel full faster, longer, and lose weight without drastic changes to diet and exercise.
When used with diet and exercise, studies show that people lost on average 15-18% of their starting body weight with semaglutide. This medication is appropriate for those with obesity, defined as having a BMI over 30, or overweight (BMI 27-29) with at least one weight-related health issue like diabetes or high blood pressure.
Semaglutide was originally approved at a lower dose under the brand names Ozempic and Rybelsus to treat type 2 diabetes. The FDA recently approved a higher dose formulation called Wegovy specifically for chronic weight management.
This anti-obesity medication is getting attention for its ability to effectively help patients finally lose the excess weight that has been negatively impacting their health for years. When paired with nutritional counseling and an exercise plan, semaglutide helps motivate patients to stay on track with the lifestyle changes needed for long-term success.
There are many great reasons to talk to your doctor about whether semaglutide is appropriate for your weight loss journey:
All medications come with potential side effects, but semaglutide has been shown to have fewer GI issues than other injectable anti-obesity drugs. The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation. These normally improve over time and can be managed with anti-nausea medication.
Rare but serious side effects include inflammation of the pancreas and gallbladder disease. Kidney function will be monitored while on this medication. Tell your doctor right away if you develop severe stomach pain, jaundice, kidney problems or changes in vision.
In clinical trials, people taking semaglutide weekly lost an average of 12-15% of body weight over 16-20 weeks. For someone weighing 200 lbs, that would mean losing 24-30 pounds! Even better, 76% of study participants lost at least 10% body weight.
The effects normally plateau around one year, but evidence shows that weight loss is sustained long term for many who stay on the medication. For continued benefit, semaglutide will likely need to be taken indefinitely along with following the lifestyle changes that facilitated initial weight loss.
Losing weight takes an incredible amount of mental and physical energy. Inertia and old routines can feel impossible to overcome.
Semaglutide works with your body’s natural hunger signals to help patients follow nutrition plans without being ravaged by cravings or overwhelming appetite. Increased energy makes adding in daily movement more attainable. Successfully implementing the changes that the medication facilitates increases confidence and motivation over time.
Semaglutide might be an appropriate medical weight loss aid if you:
Talk to your doctor about whether semaglutide is appropriate for your health history and weight loss goals. They will check kidney and liver function with blood tests before prescribing this medication as those with impaired function could be at higher risk for serious side effects.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take semaglutide.
Here’s an overview of what you can expect when starting semaglutide treatment:
During your initial consultation at Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic, we will:
Semaglutide dosage starts low at 0.25 mg weekly and increases slowly over 5-8 weeks to improve tolerance. Nausea normally peaks with each increase before subsiding again. Common ramp schedules are:
Additional anti-nausea medication can make any side effects temporary and manageable. Tell your doctor if vomiting or diarrhea become severe.
Once at the full 1.7 mg maintenance dose, semaglutide will have effectively increased feelings of fullness and lowered appetite. This makes adhering to the customized nutrition and exercise plan easier. Most patients lose the most weight with:
We will schedule regular follow ups to:
Lifestyle changes fueled by semaglutide will lead to life-altering weight loss and health improvement over 9-12 months. Continuation of treatment provides the appetite control and accountability needed to sustain lower weight.
Semaglutide is structurally similar to a human hormone called GLP-1 that regulates blood sugar. When injected, it mimics the effects of GLP-1 leading to better blood sugar control. Interestingly, it also suppresses appetite by delaying gastric emptying and increasing feelings of fullness, making it an effective weight loss medication.
The natural beauty and friendly community of Apache Junction make it an ideal location for successful semaglutide weight loss journeys!
With over 85% sunny days and average highs of 75-104°F, it’s easy to stay active and energized every day of the year! The winter months from November to March see warmer highs in the 70s with low humidity. This perfect patio weather makes it easier to catch up with friends over healthy meals alfresco.
In the summer months, take advantage of the long days by scheduling outdoor exercise in the cooler morning hours. Beating the afternoon highs lessens fatigue and joint pain exacerbated by carrying excess weight.
There are over 50 miles of trails weaving through the spectacular Superstition Mountains just minutes from town. From family friendly nature walks in Lost Goldmine Trail to intense cardio challenges hiking Flatiron, there is a trail suited for every fitness level. Breathe fresh air and soak up vitamin D while taking in majestic mountain peaks, vibrant cacti blooms and desert wildlife.
Pack healthy snacks to refuel post-hike. Our dietitians can provide tailor trail mix and hydrating infused water recipes to make sure your nutrient needs are met.
From November to April, locally grown produce can be picked up every Saturday at the (/). Stock up on seasonal fruits and veggies, eggs, honey and freshly baked breads. Getting to know the farmers and artisans provides insight into the care and quality behind each item.
Farmers markets make trying new healthy recipes fun and affordable! Take our weekly Clean Eating Challenge to discover new favorite plant-based dishes that support your weight loss efforts.
The desert is home to over a dozen natural hot springs perfect for unwinding and reducing stress. Soak in the healing mineral waters at (.gov/recarea/tonto/recreation/recarea/?recid=35265) after long days of hard work.
Managing stress levels through relaxing activities will lessen reliance on emotional eating. Making self-care a priority amplifies semaglutide effectiveness.
State of the art exercise equipment and classes are available 24/7 at (/). There is a location right in central Apache Junction! Whether you love Zumba, yoga, weights, swimming or basketball, there are options for every fitness level.
The encouraging staff and members help newcomers feel comfortable trying new equipment and pushing past perceived limits. Having a team to turn to on challenging days can make all the difference in sticking to healthier habits. Know your goals are supported on your path to healing your relationship to food and physical activity.
Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic is honored to be a part of your wellness journey! Contact us today to see if semaglutide treatment is appropriate for you.
