Semaglutide is an injectable medication used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.
Semaglutide helps lower blood sugar levels by stimulating the release of insulin when blood sugar is high, slowing digestion to reduce the rate at which sugar enters the bloodstream, and suppressing appetite. It also reduces food cravings and promotes feelings of fullness and satisfaction after eating.
Some key points about semaglutide therapy:
Benefits of semaglutide treatment include:
Semaglutide treatment offers people with diabetes substantial improvements in blood sugar control and cardiovascular risk factors. When combined with lifestyle changes, it can be a powerful tool for managing type 2 diabetes.
The first step is getting properly tested and diagnosed with diabetes by an endocrinologist or other specialist. This typically involves either:
Once diabetes is diagnosed, semaglutide may be prescribed if:
The potential benefits and risks are carefully considered before prescribing semaglutide. Doctors will also take medical history, any other medications being taken, and lifestyle factors into account.
Semaglutide comes in a disposable, prefilled pen device designed for easy self-injection under skin. Common injection sites are the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
Treatment starts with a low 0.25 mg weekly dose for 4 weeks to minimize side effects. The dosage is then increased to 0.5 mg, and often to a maintenance dose of 1 mg.
The medication is long-acting and stays in the body for over 1 week after each injection. It should be taken on the same day each week. If a dose is missed, it can be administered within 3 days.
Most insurance plans cover semaglutide with prior authorization. Out-of-pocket costs typically range from $50-150 monthly without coverage. Financial assistance may be available.
Once injected, semaglutide activates GLP-1 receptors that trigger the pancreas to secrete insulin when blood sugar rises, such as after a meal. It also:
These effects combine to lower overall blood sugar exposure, hemoglobin A1c, glucose spikes, and improve insulin sensitivity.
Beyond lowering blood sugar, semaglutide provides additional metabolic and cardiovascular benefits:
These enhancements lower risks for heart attack, stroke, blindness, nerve damage, kidney failure and amputation. Semaglutide protects health now and well into the future.
To get the most out of semaglutide therapy, we recommend paying special attention to healthy lifestyle habits:
We provide ongoing lifestyle coaching and support here at Balance Hormone Clinic. Small steps forwards make big differences over time!
Semaglutide was originally discovered in the saliva of a non-venomous species of gila monster lizard named Heloderma suspectum. Scientists found that the lizard's saliva contained a compound that regulates blood sugar, which inspired the development of semaglutide as a treatment for diabetes in humans.
Here at Balance Hormone Clinic in Long Island, we specialize in diabetics and metabolic health. Our experienced endocrinologists and other experts offer cutting-edge testing, diagnosis, treatment programs, and personalized guidance.
We perform comprehensive lab testing to accurately diagnose hormone imbalances, metabolic disorders like prediabetes and diabetes, and reasons for unwanted symptoms or conditions. State-of-the-art body composition analyses also provide insight.
Based on test results and medical history, we develop customized treatment plans utilizing medications like semaglutide when appropriate. We also incorporate lifestyle optimization through nutrition planning, physical activity recommendations, and more.
Ongoing follow-ups and support empower clients to take control of their health. We partner together every step of the way to help you feel your best now and into the future.
Balance Hormone Clinic also offers:
Contact us today to learn more or schedule your first appointment!
Gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are the most common side effects, especially when first starting. They typically resolve within 4-8 weeks as the body adjusts. These can be minimized by slowly increasing dosage.
No, semaglutide has a low risk of causing severely low blood sugar because it regulates insulin production based on current blood sugar levels. Symptoms like dizziness should be discussed with your doctor though.
Most people lose 10-15 pounds. Some may lose 20 pounds or more. This promotes better blood sugar control and reduced risks for other diabetes complications.
Benefits like lower blood sugar and hemoglobin A1c decline over several weeks after discontinuation. People generally regain some weight back as appetite returns to normal. Discuss long-term plans with your doctor.
Yes, semaglutide works well with metformin, SGLT2 inhibitors, TZDs, sulfonylureas, and other agents. Combination therapy is common to achieve better blood sugar control than possible with one medication alone. ConclusionWe hope this provided helpful information about semaglutide and the comprehensive care we offer here at Balance Hormone Clinic. Feel free to contact us with any additional questions you may have or schedule an initial consultation. We are here to provide compassionate, evidence-based care that helps you regain health, vitality and quality of life.
