Ozempic (semaglutide) and other GLP-1 agonists are medicines used to treat type 2 diabetes.
GLP-1 agonists work by imitating the effects of a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1. GLP-1 is released in reaction to food intake and helps lower blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin secretion, slowing glucose absorption from the gut, and reducing glucose production in the liver.
They are typically used along with diet and exercise to help improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is administered once a week via subcutaneous injection and is available in different doses. Your healthcare provider can help determine the appropriate dose for you.
While GLP-1 receptor agonists are mainly utilized to treat type 2 diabetes, it has been also approved by FDA for weight management in non-diabetic people with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or more and at least an obesity-related health condition such as elevated blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, or heart disease.
Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro can aid weight loss by reducing appetite, intensifying feelings of fullness, and reducing calorie intake. It can also improve insulin resistance and glucose metabolism, possibly contributing to weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes.
However, it is essential to note that these drugs should not be used as a standalone weight loss medication and are not recommended for people with a medical history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome types 2 (MEN II). It should be used in combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise to reach optimal results.
If you are considering using Ozempic or other GLP-1 agonists for weight loss, you must speak with your healthcare provider to determine if these medications are a safe and appropriate options for you, considering your medical history, current medications, and other factors that may affect your weight loss journey.
Joy Medical offers personalized doctor-backed medical weight loss programs that utilize FDA-approved injections to help individuals lose weight safely, especially those who have difficulty shedding excess fat mass (and in particular, visceral fat mass) despite the efforts. We’re here to help.
Please call (818) 464-4870 or complete the Contact Us form to schedule your appointment with Dr. Sheybani, a board-certified internist and primary care physician at Joy Medical Clinic in Sherman Oaks today. Your journey to better health starts now!