What is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a newly FDA-approved weight loss injection medication sold under the brand name Wegovy. Semaglutide works with your GLP-1, which is a hormone that plays a role in your appetite and digestion. Incretins (hormones released by your small intestine) are sent out by your body after you’ve

What does it do?

The weekly Semaglutide injection slows down the rate at which your stomach sends food to your large intestine. This results in slower digestion (which improves blood sugar) and a longer feeling of fullness. It also stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin, removing sugar from the bloodstream. Patients on Semaglutide have reported reduced appetite and reduced cravings, both of which contribute to weight loss. Patients also report that over-eating while on Semaglutide results in unpleasant side effects, which discourages poor eating habits. Semaglutide is prescribed in combination with customized education from Dr. Russell and our medical team. Dr. Russell and her staff work with each patient on how they should be eating to lose weight, with habit forming changes that create sustainability.

How is Semaglutide Administered?

You will come into the office for a once weekly injection, on the same day each week. It can be given at any time of day, and can be given with or without food. Semaglutide is injected just under the skin (subcutaneously) in your abdomen or thigh. Since Semaglutide slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach, you may experience side effects like nausea and vomiting. The goal is to have limited unfavorable side effects and feel the benefits of the medication, including decreased appetite, cravings, portion sizes. We will do this by adjusting your dosing every month to achieve that goal if tolerated. While no medication is without risks and side effects, Semaglutide is relatively safe for most people. Semaglutide can be used in people with most heart, kidney, liver, and endocrine conditions.