Kick-Start Your Weight Loss Journey with Semaglutide

  • What is Semaglutide for Weight Loss?
  • How Semaglutide Works
  • Who is Semaglutide For?
  • Risks & Side Effects of Semaglutide
  • What Patients Can Expect

What is Semaglutide for Weight Loss?

Originally developed as a treatment for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Semaglutide is an FDA-approved medication that has also proven effective in supporting physician-supervised weight loss programs by helping control your appetite leading to reduced caloric intake.

Semaglutide — more commonly known by its brand names, Ozempic, Rybelsus and Wegovy — is a once-weekly injection (or a daily pill as Rybelsus) that became available in the US in 2017.

Several clinical studies show that weekly Semaglutide injections promote weight loss. In 2021, the FDA approved Wegovy, which is Ozempic with a higher dosing potential, in addition to diet and exercise to help reduce weight in obese or overweight adults.

At Vital Living Healthcare in Atlanta, we offer semaglutide weight loss injections as part of our comprehensive physician-supervised medical weight loss programs to help our patients achieve safe, sustainable weight loss.

How Semaglutide Works for Weight Loss?

Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 agonists. These drugs work by mimicking the blood-sugar regulating hormone Incretin.

Incretin receptors exist throughout the body, particularly in the stomach, brain, and pancreas. When bound to these receptors, the action of GLP-1 has the following effects:

  • Stimulates the production of insulin
  • Reduces glucagon production in the liver
  • Signals to the brain a feeling of fullness
  • Slows the rate of gastric emptying

This results in:

  • Better regulation of blood sugar levels
  • Reduction of appetite
  • Reduction of food intake
  • Weight loss

In other words, patients get full quickly, stay full longer, and rarely have food cravings or hunger.

Studies also indicate that the use of GLP-1 medications helps preserve lean muscle mass versus other weight loss methods. Semaglutide is administered as a subcutaneous injection into the lower abdomen once weekly.

The medication should not be taken any sooner than every 7 days, and doing so could cause the levels to build up and cause more frequent side effects. It is so easy, patients self-administer at home.

Who is Semaglutide For?

Semaglutide is ideal for individuals seeking a science-backed method for weight loss, especially for those who have:

  • Struggled with traditional diets or exercise programs
  • A BMI categorized as overweight or obese (27+)
  • Related health concerns, such as prediabetes

At Vital Living Healthcare, our physicians will determine if semaglutide is the right treatment plan for you based on your health profile and wellness goals.

Risks & Side Effects of Semaglutide

As with any medication, semaglutide may cause side effects that vary in type, duration, and severity for each patient. Here are some of the most notable side effects, both minor and severe.

Common Risks & Side Effects

The most common side effects of Semaglutide include mild digestive issues that typically occur in the early stages of usage:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Fatigue
  • Injection-Site Redness
  • Swelling & Discomfort

Most patients report that these side effects diminish or disappear over time as their bodies adjust to the medication.

Uncommon Risks & Side Effects

While serious side effects are rare, Semaglutide may increase the risk of:

  • Gallstones
  • Pancreatitis
  • Low Blood Sugar

If you experience any of these symptoms or persistent side effects, it’s important to inform your physician right away. Our team can adjust your dosage or modify your treatment plan to help minimize discomfort and ensure your body responds well to the medication. We closely monitor each patient throughout the program to support their health and well-being.

What Patients Can Expect From Semaglutide

Initial Consultation

Before beginning a GLP-1 medication each patient meets with a member of our experienced medical team for an initial consultation to discuss:

  • Potential medication allergies, whether to Semaglutide specifically or other medications.
  • Full medical history to determine potential effectiveness of treatment.
  • Other patient medications that could interrupt or complicate treatment.
  • Overall health goals, to better understand how Semaglutide can support them.

Getting Treatment

Semaglutide GLP-1 patients must follow an easy but structured plan to achieve continued results:

  • Inject Semaglutide once a week via subcutaneous injection either in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
  • Take medication on the same set schedule including the same day each week, same time, and with or without meals.
  • Inject a missed dose within 4 days of scheduled treatment, or skip does altogether.

As patients continue to undergo treatment, our team will adjust dosage to maintain top results.

While results vary, patients tend to feel the appetite-suppressing effects within days of the first injection, and typically start experiencing gradual weight loss within the first 4 weeks.

As part of our comprehensive program, we offer regular check-ins and support combined with lifestyle counseling. Our physicians monitor and track patient progress throughout the treatment plan, monitor fat loss and skeletal muscle mass while adjusting methods or dosages as needed.

Treatment Results

While results vary from patient to patient, Vital Living Healthcare semaglutide patients typically notice gradual weight loss and experience meaningful results within 2-3 months while titrating up to the appropriate dose for them.

With Vital Living Healthcare’s whole-person approach to health and vitality, our patients see consistent results and lasting health improvements.

What is Semaglutide for Weight Loss?

What is Semaglutide for Weight Loss?

Originally developed as a treatment for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Semaglutide is an FDA-approved medication that has also proven effective in supporting physician-supervised weight loss programs by helping control your appetite leading to reduced caloric intake.

Semaglutide — more commonly known by its brand names, Ozempic, Rybelsus and Wegovy — is a once-weekly injection (or a daily pill as Rybelsus) that became available in the US in 2017.

Several clinical studies show that weekly Semaglutide injections promote weight loss. In 2021, the FDA approved Wegovy, which is Ozempic with a higher dosing potential, in addition to diet and exercise to help reduce weight in obese or overweight adults.

At Vital Living Healthcare in Atlanta, we offer semaglutide weight loss injections as part of our comprehensive physician-supervised medical weight loss programs to help our patients achieve safe, sustainable weight loss.

How Semaglutide Works

How Semaglutide Works for Weight Loss?

Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 agonists. These drugs work by mimicking the blood-sugar regulating hormone Incretin.

Incretin receptors exist throughout the body, particularly in the stomach, brain, and pancreas. When bound to these receptors, the action of GLP-1 has the following effects:

  • Stimulates the production of insulin
  • Reduces glucagon production in the liver
  • Signals to the brain a feeling of fullness
  • Slows the rate of gastric emptying

This results in:

  • Better regulation of blood sugar levels
  • Reduction of appetite
  • Reduction of food intake
  • Weight loss

In other words, patients get full quickly, stay full longer, and rarely have food cravings or hunger.

Studies also indicate that the use of GLP-1 medications helps preserve lean muscle mass versus other weight loss methods. Semaglutide is administered as a subcutaneous injection into the lower abdomen once weekly.

The medication should not be taken any sooner than every 7 days, and doing so could cause the levels to build up and cause more frequent side effects. It is so easy, patients self-administer at home.

Who is Semaglutide For?

Who is Semaglutide For?

Semaglutide is ideal for individuals seeking a science-backed method for weight loss, especially for those who have:

  • Struggled with traditional diets or exercise programs
  • A BMI categorized as overweight or obese (27+)
  • Related health concerns, such as prediabetes

At Vital Living Healthcare, our physicians will determine if semaglutide is the right treatment plan for you based on your health profile and wellness goals.

Risks & Side Effects of Semaglutide

Risks & Side Effects of Semaglutide

As with any medication, semaglutide may cause side effects that vary in type, duration, and severity for each patient. Here are some of the most notable side effects, both minor and severe.

Common Risks & Side Effects

The most common side effects of Semaglutide include mild digestive issues that typically occur in the early stages of usage:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Fatigue
  • Injection-Site Redness
  • Swelling & Discomfort

Most patients report that these side effects diminish or disappear over time as their bodies adjust to the medication.

Uncommon Risks & Side Effects

While serious side effects are rare, Semaglutide may increase the risk of:

  • Gallstones
  • Pancreatitis
  • Low Blood Sugar

If you experience any of these symptoms or persistent side effects, it’s important to inform your physician right away. Our team can adjust your dosage or modify your treatment plan to help minimize discomfort and ensure your body responds well to the medication. We closely monitor each patient throughout the program to support their health and well-being.

What Patients Can Expect

What Patients Can Expect From Semaglutide

Initial Consultation

Before beginning a GLP-1 medication each patient meets with a member of our experienced medical team for an initial consultation to discuss:

  • Potential medication allergies, whether to Semaglutide specifically or other medications.
  • Full medical history to determine potential effectiveness of treatment.
  • Other patient medications that could interrupt or complicate treatment.
  • Overall health goals, to better understand how Semaglutide can support them.

Getting Treatment

Semaglutide GLP-1 patients must follow an easy but structured plan to achieve continued results:

  • Inject Semaglutide once a week via subcutaneous injection either in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
  • Take medication on the same set schedule including the same day each week, same time, and with or without meals.
  • Inject a missed dose within 4 days of scheduled treatment, or skip does altogether.

As patients continue to undergo treatment, our team will adjust dosage to maintain top results.

While results vary, patients tend to feel the appetite-suppressing effects within days of the first injection, and typically start experiencing gradual weight loss within the first 4 weeks.

As part of our comprehensive program, we offer regular check-ins and support combined with lifestyle counseling. Our physicians monitor and track patient progress throughout the treatment plan, monitor fat loss and skeletal muscle mass while adjusting methods or dosages as needed.

Treatment Results

While results vary from patient to patient, Vital Living Healthcare semaglutide patients typically notice gradual weight loss and experience meaningful results within 2-3 months while titrating up to the appropriate dose for them.

With Vital Living Healthcare’s whole-person approach to health and vitality, our patients see consistent results and lasting health improvements.

Benefits of Semaglutide for Weight Loss

As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, Semaglutide acts to suppress appetite, extend feelings of fullness, and improve blood sugar control. This multifaceted approach not only aids in weight loss but also promotes healthier eating habits and lifestyle changes, setting the stage for sustainable results.

Appetite Suppression

Semaglutide shots reduce hunger cravings, making it easier to adhere to a controlled and balanced diet.

Extended Fullness

The shots promote prolonged feelings of fullness, helping individuals manage portion sizes and minimize overeating.

Blood Sugar Regulation

Semaglutide assists in maintaining stable blood sugar levels, reducing the likelihood of sudden cravings and energy crashes.

Healthier Lifestyle

The shots encourage the adoption of healthier eating habits and regular physical activity, contributing to a sustainable weight loss journey.

Semaglutide Weight Loss FAQs

How Long Do Semaglutide Side Effects Last?

Most side effects, such as nausea, are mild and often resolve within a few days to weeks as the body adjusts to the medication. Our team will help you manage any side effects you may experience, making adjustments to minimize discomfort throughout your treatment. Additionally, we provide guidance on lifestyle and dietary changes that can help reduce side effects and improve comfort during treatment.

Is Semaglutide Safe?

Yes, Semaglutide is FDA-approved and safe when administered under medical supervision. At Vital Living Healthcare, Dr. Cox oversees every stage of treatment so you receive the highest standard of safety and effectiveness. We offer regular check-ins, adjustments, and comprehensive patient education on managing potential side effects. Our goal is a smooth and effective weight loss journey.

Is Semaglutide the Same as Ozempic?

No, Ozempic is a patent protected formula of semaglutide that can only be marketed and sold by Novo-Nordisk, the patent holder. Is compounded semaglutide very similar to Ozempic in composition and action? Our experience over the past year leads us to believe it is. Ozempic is a brand name for semaglutide used to treat diabetes, while Wegovy, a higher-dose form of semaglutide, is specifically approved for weight loss. At Vital Living Healthcare, we use the most effective dosing strategy based on your needs, so you achieve your weight loss goals safely. Our expertise optimizes the specific benefits of semaglutide for weight management.

How Long Do You Stay on Semaglutide for Weight Loss?

The duration of semaglutide treatment depends on individual progress and goals. Most patients remain on the medication for a few months to a year, with adjustments made based on results. Vital Living Healthcare will work with you to determine the best treatment plan for sustainable results. Your individual treatment duration will align with your health needs and lifestyle.

Where to Inject Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is commonly injected into the abdomen but can also be administered in the thigh or upper arm. Our team will guide you through the process, teaching you how to safely and confidently perform the injections at home. We ensure you feel comfortable and equipped to incorporate this step seamlessly into your routine, addressing any questions or concerns along the way.

Is Semaglutide for Weight Loss Covered by Insurance?

Unfortunately, most health insurers do not cover the treatment of weight loss or obesity medications. To find out if you have coverage contact your benefits administrator at your workplace or check the formulary (list of approved medications for your particular health plan) online.

Even if you meet the treatment criteria established by the guidelines to take the medication, your health insurance can choose not to cover the medication, or you can be “covered” with copays up to $900 per month in our patients’ experience. If you pay the MSRP for Wegovy or Ozempic it will cost you anywhere from $900 to $1300/month or more. That is why we utilize the compounded version and can provide you with the medication regardless of dosage for $350 per month.

Who Should NOT Take Semaglutide?

You should not take Semaglutide if you are currently pregnant or breastfeeding or if you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2. If you have been diagnosed with gastroparesis (a stomach motility disorder) you should not take GLP-1 medications.

Additionally, if you have taken Ozempic, Wegovy, or Rybelsus in the past and did not tolerate them you should not use semaglutide. If you develop a rash around the injection site, alert your medical practitioner immediately and stop treatment.

If you are unwilling to change your lifestyle of unhealthy food choices or amounts, this medication will not be effective in the long term. There are many other reasons GLP-1 treatments may not be suitable for all persons; ask your doctor or NP if you need more information.

Get Started with Semaglutide for Weight Loss

Before
After

Kick-start your weight loss and healthy lifestyle journey with our physician-supervised weight loss program and Semaglutide.

Get a consultation and get your 1st Month of Semaglutide (4 pre-drawn syringes at the correct dosage for you) for just $299, and $350/month thereafter — no matter the dosage! This is a month-to-month program with no minimum commitments.

Your 1st month’s fee includes your:

Other Weight Loss & Fat Removal Treatments We Offer

Tirzepatide GIP/GLP-1 Injections

Available by prescription only, Tirzepatide is another weight-loss injection option combining GIP and GLP-1 for appetite control, managing blood sugar, and decreasing insulin resistance. These factors not only promote significant weight loss but also lead to healthier eating habits and lifestyle changes necessary to maintain results.

Often effective for patients who have not achieved their desired results with other treatments, Tirzepatide provides an alternative to other weight loss medications, many reporting less side effects.

When combined with regular exercise and a balanced diet, Tirzepatide’s GIP / GLP-1 makeup has shown to provide greater weight loss results than its GLP-1 counterparts like Semaglutide or Wegovy.

Tirzepatide GIP/GLP-1 Injections

Surgical & Non-Surgical Fat Removal

As a complement to our medical weight loss program, Vital Living Healthcare offers both surgical and non-surgical fat removal procedures to treat areas of fat that have not responded to regular diet and exercise or the injectable medications we prescribe for weight loss.

With Smartlipo (surgical) and SculpSure (non-surgical), we are able to remove unwanted fat from many areas of the body including the Abdomen, Arms, Chin, Jawline, Upper Back & Bra Fat, Hips & Love Handles, and Inner & Outer Thighs.

Both of these procedures utilize laser-generated heat to melt fat and tighten the skin — which can help alleviate saggy skin that can occur due to the rapid weight loss from GLP-1 medications.

Surgical & Non-Surgical Fat Removal