Weight Loss with GLP-1 medications

People with certain health conditions should not take GLP-1 medications:

• Allergy to Semaglutide or Tirzepatide or their ingredients

• History of pancreatitis, acute inflammation of the pancreas, or alcohol abuse

• Yourself or a family member has a history of thyroid cancer

• Diabetic retinopathy

• Renal disease or kidney dysfunction

• Gallbladder disease

• Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2

• Other conditions as indicated by a physician

• Unable to self administer medication using a small needle (injection)

People with certain health conditions should use caution when taking GLP-1 medications:

• Issues controlling blood sugar

• Type I Diabetes

• Type II Diabetes

• Hypoglycemia

• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrom (PCOS)

• Other conditions as indicated by a physician

If you are unable to take GLP-1 medications, BeXellent offers wight loss alternatives in pill form to help you on your weight loss journey.

Patients commonly experience the below side effects. Contact your physician if the side effects are severe or don't go away:

• nausea

• vomiting

• diarrhea

• abdominal pain

• constipation

• heartburn

• burping

If you have any of the serious side effects or symptoms listed below, call your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment:

• trouble breathing or swallowing; swelling of the throat, mouth, tongue, eyes or face; rash; itching; 

• pain that starts in the upper left or middle of the stomach and spreads to the back (with or without vomiting)

• deceased urination; swelling in the legs, feet, or ankles

• dizziness, fainting, or changes in eye sight

• rapid heartbeat

Semaglutide: Research studies found that the average weight loss for patient taking Semaglutide was 8% of their initial body weight after 2 months (at the 1mg equivalent dose) and 16% of their initial body weight after 9 months at the 2.4mg equivalent dose. Patients participating the in the research studies also made lifestyle changes, including eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly. 

Patients who stopped taking Semaglutide but maintained a healthy lifestyle gained back 10% of their weight loss. Patients who did not maintain a healthy lifestyle gained back 2/3rd of their weight loss. 

Tirzepatide: Tirzepatide is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist used primarily for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, with significant potential for weight loss. Research studies found that patients can lose up to 15-20% of their initial body weight over a 72 week period. After stopping the medication, studies indicate an average regain of around 10-15% of the weight loss after one year. The extent of weight regain can vary based on lifestyle factors and adherence to dietary and physical activity recommendations post-treatment.

Obesity is a chronic disease. Some patients may need to take medication long-term, or continue to take medication after they have lost weight to prevent weight gain.

Semaglutide: The starting dose for patients who have never taken Semaglutide is the 1mg equivalent dose. At this dose, patients will start with an even lower dose (.25mg) and slowly increase to the maximum tolerated dose, or until they reach optimal benefits (with minimal side effects). Many patients remain at the 1mg equivalent dose for the entire time they take the medication. Other patients may have their dose increased to the 2.4mg equivalent dose after several months. 

Tirzepatide: The starting dose for patients who have never taken Tirzepatide is the 7.5mg equivalent dose. At this dose, patients will start with an even lower dose (2.5mg) and slowly increase to the maximum tolerated dose, or until they reach optimal benefits (with minimal side effects). Many patients remain at the 7.5mg equivalent dose for the entire time they take the medication. Other patients may have their dose increased to the 15mg equivalent dose after several months. 

GLP-1 medications are injected into your body with a small needle once a week. You can inject the medication in your stomach, upper arm, or thigh. You will start on a low dose of the medication for the first four weeks, then increase the dose for the next four weeks, and continue this cycle until you reach optimal dosing. Most patients are at their optimal dose by week 9; optimal dose can be identified by how you respond to the medication and tolerate side effects.

GLP-1 medications are to be combined with a nutritious diet and routine exercise.  

It is important to continue taking your medication even when you feel well. Do not stop taking your medication without talking to your doctor. If you are unable to continue taking your medication or chose to stop taking it, BeXellent offers weight loss alternatives in a pill form to help you maintain your weight loss goals.