Semaglutide
Conveniently located to serve the areas of Tualatin and Portland, Oregon
Semaglutide is a medication originally designed for type-2 diabetics that is now also used in weight management. Also known as Ozempic or Wegovy, semaglutide treatment is a once-weekly injection through which patients can effectively suppress hunger and make smarter, healthier food choices. Semaglutide not only reduces unwanted cravings, but it can boost metabolism and improve glycemic control, allowing the body to more efficiently use glucose (sugar) instead of storing it as fat or within the bloodstream. Semaglutide is safe for long-term use and allows patients to reap the health and cosmetic benefits of attaining and sustaining a healthier weight.
To find out if semaglutide is right for your weight-loss needs, get in touch with Gorin Plastic Surgery & Medspa near Portland, and we will properly evaluate your health and weight-loss goals.
Call our practice at (503) 692-7222 or use our online form, and our team will get back to you promptly.
Contents
How Semaglutide Works
Semaglutide affects metabolism and the way the brain processes satiation and hunger. After numerous studies proving its effectiveness in helping participants of varying BMIs lose weight, the FDA approved its use in 2017. It works by triggering the pancreas to produce more insulin, a hormone that breaks down glucose, the sugars/carbs within food. In a healthy body, after every meal, blood sugar rises, but insulin quickly regulates its levels by metabolizing it. In people with diabetes, the pancreas is impaired, so this process is much slower and blood sugar remains higher than what is considered healthy. This is what causes the serious medical problems that uncontrolled diabetes can lead to.
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 agonist, an imitator of the naturally occurring GLP hormone. This hormone directs when insulin is produced and released into the bloodstream. Not only can GLP-1 agonists help diabetics get a handle on their condition, but they can also cause an influx of insulin that sends satiation signals to the brain. Specifically, this extra insulin goes to the hypothalamus area of the brain.
How Effective is Semaglutide?
With proper dosing, semaglutide is effective for diabetics and non-diabetics. Recently, it has taken the world by storm as a remedy for helping people get their weight under control, and many semaglutide studies have explored this. Participants in one study reaped extensive weight loss benefits from just a 2.4 mg weekly dose. With this minute amount, the participants (with a collective average BMI of 37.9) lost an average of 28% of their body weight, a much-needed BMI reduction for the prevention of type 2 diabetes and other weight-related diseases. (1) The study also lasted for 68 weeks, demonstrating that providers could prescribe semaglutide for long-term use, not for temporary, unhealthy, and rapid weight loss. Finally, studies also find that semaglutide slows down gastric emptying, meaning that food stays within the stomach for longer. (2) With this feature, the medication helps users feel physically fuller for longer periods.
What is Tirzepatide?
Like semaglutide, tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) has shown promise in aiding weight loss. As a dual agonist for GLP-1 and GIP receptors, it helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduces appetite. Clinical trials have demonstrated significant weight reduction in individuals using tirzepatide, making it an effective option for managing obesity and related metabolic conditions. Its dual action mechanism enhances its efficacy, offering a new approach to weight management and metabolic health.
Benefits of Semaglutide
Semaglutide does not just help you lose weight, but it creates a chain reaction of benefits, including:
Candidates for Semaglutide
Semaglutide injections are suitable for men and women over 18 years of age who are either considered overweight or obese. We will not prescribe semaglutide to those who are currently using another GLP-1 agonist medication or those who directly inject insulin. The treatment also may not be appropriate for those who have ever had gallstones, kidney disease, thyroid cancer, or a pancreatic condition.
Personal Consultation
The benefits of semaglutide are extensive and allow for drastic changes in both your health and confidence in your appearance. Our staff is knowledgeable in the intricacies of this medication and works to deliver the most comprehensive, thorough care with this highly sought-after weight-loss solution. We will speak with you about your specific weight loss goals and when you would like to achieve them. We will then outline a treatment plan that will allow you to see gradual, consistent results over time.
To get started with a complimentary consultation with a professional, call our Portland location at (503) 692-7222 or inquire online, and we can guide you through the next steps.
Treatment Plan
At the beginning of your treatment, we will prescribe a weekly dose of semaglutide, allowing you to slowly adjust and reduce the likelihood of experiencing negative side effects. We will provide a month’s worth of injections (four doses) and teach you how to safely self-administer. The most common injection site is the abdomen; after cleansing the skin with alcohol, you will need to pinch the tissue and inject subcutaneously. If you experience any of the common side effects like nausea or bloating, we can lower your dose to an amount that will still be effective at reducing your hunger.
How to Maintain Weight Loss Results
Every patient responds to semaglutide differently and at different times throughout their treatment, which is why a customized plan is so essential. Maintaining healthy habits in your daily life is crucial for success with these injections over time. For most patients, the basic guideline of eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole foods in place of more processed, high-calorie foods is helpful. One of the main aspects of eating that semaglutide can help with is portion control, but you will need to put in effort to make healthier choices. It is still possible to fail to lose the desired weight if you eat a diet heavy in unhealthy, fatty, and high-carb foods.
All in all, these are the factors that will influence your results:
- Unique metabolism
- Food choices
- Weight at the beginning of treatment
- Activity level
- Dosage
If you are in the severely obese weight range, you may find that you will shed weight faster than slimmer people using semaglutide. You may see noticeable results in just a couple of weeks. If you are in the class 1 obese weight range or considered overweight, it may take around a month. It varies greatly from person to person, but the results are worth it! Semaglutide will promote greater energy and leave you with a more positive outlook on your appearance.
Corresponding and Complementary Treatments
Dr. Gorin typically needs the BMI (Body Mass Index) to be under 30. In many cases, semaglutide and tirzepatide can help patients achieve their goal weight before proceeding with surgery. The most common surgical procedures for Dr. Gorin after patients lose weight would be tummy tucks and breast lifts. Click here for our gallery.
Cost of Semaglutide in Portland
The cost of your semaglutide injections will depend on the dosage, length of treatment, and follow-up appointments at Gorin Plastic Surgery & Medspa. At your first appointment, we will give you a breakdown of all costs involved to help you make an informed decision.
Get in contact with our practice at (503) 692-7222 or request your complimentary consultation online. We are also available to answer any questions you have about semaglutide, other treatment options, or basic questions about our office.
FAQ
Is semaglutide FDA-approved for weight loss?
Yes, semaglutide has been approved by the FDA for weight management in obese adults and overweight adults with weight-related comorbidities.
How long does semaglutide treatment last?
Semaglutide treatment is typically long-term, but the duration will depend on each individual’s response and goals. It is important to continue treatment as prescribed by your healthcare provider to maintain results.
Are there any significant side effects of semaglutide for weight loss?
Semaglutide may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. However, these side effects are generally mild and temporary.
Will semaglutide replace the need for diet and exercise?
While semaglutide can aid in weight loss, it is essential to continue following a healthy diet and engaging in regular exercise for sustainable results.
References
- Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Calanna S, et al. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine. 2021;384(11). doi:https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
- Chaudhry A, Gabriel B, Noor J, Jawad S, Challa SR. Tendency of Semaglutide to Induce Gastroparesis: A Case Report. Cureus. 2024;16(1):e52564. doi:https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.52564
- Vaughan RW, Cork RC, Hollander D. The effect of massive weight loss on arterial oxygenation and pulmonary function tests. Anesthesiology. 1981;54(4):325-328. doi:10.1097/00000542-198104000-00013
- Singh G, Krauthamer M, Bjalme-Evans M. Wegovy (semaglutide): a new weight loss drug for chronic weight management. Journal of Investigative Medicine. Published online October 27, 2021:jim-2021-001952. doi:https://doi.org/10.1136/jim-2021-001952