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Weight Management
A formulation of GLP-1 weight loss medications is a synthetic version of a naturally occurring hormone, classified as a GLP-1 analog. Its primary functions include boosting insulin production, reducing glucagon secretion, and influencing brain areas responsible for appetite regulation and food intake. A slight molecular modification allows a formulation of GLP-1 weight loss medications to remain active in the body for weeks, unlike the body’s natural version which lasts only minutes.
GLP-1 Weight loss medications operate through several pathways:
- Slows gastric emptying, promoting a feeling of fullness with smaller meals
- Decreases intestinal motility, prolonging satiety
- Lowers blood sugar levels, partly by reducing hepatic glucose production
- Stimulates pancreatic insulin secretion
- Reduces systemic inflammation, leading to adiponectin release and fat breakdown
- Appetite and craving reduction
- Weight loss
- Improved blood glucose control
Dosing Protocol
GLP-1 Weight loss medications typically follow a gradual dose escalation:
- Weeks 1-4: 0.25 mg (5 units)
- Weeks 5-8: 0.50 mg (10 units)
- Weeks 9-12: 1.0 mg (20 units)
- Weeks 13-16: 1.75 mg (35 units)
- Weeks 16+: 2.5 mg (50 units)
Common side effects include nausea and constipation. Less frequent effects may include acid reflux, abdominal discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you experience these symptoms, please inform your healthcare provider as it may indicate the need for a dosage adjustment.
Serious side effects are more likely in patients with conditions such as hypoglycemia, kidney problems, or a history of allergic reactions. Formulations of GLP-1 weight loss medications are not suitable for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. They should not be combined with other GLP-1 medications.
Caution: Patients with a personal or family history of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2 or Medullary Thyroid Cancer should avoid formulations of GLP-1 weight loss medications due to the risk of thyroid c-cell tumors. Those with a history of pancreatitis should consult their healthcare provider before use.
Decreased appetite and cravings, weight-loss and improved Blood Glucose control.
What are GLP-1 weight loss medications?
A formulation of GLP-1 weight loss medications is a modified molecule our bodies make, called a GLP-1 analog. It works by increasing insulin production, lowering glucagon secretion, and targeting areas in the brain that regulate appetite and food intake. A small change in the molecule allows the medication to last weeks in our bodies rather than the natural version our bodies make, which lasts minutes.
How Do GLP-1 weight loss medications Work?
Delays how quickly our stomachs digest food, leading to a feeling of fullness and satisfaction with smaller meal sizes. Slows intestinal motility so you will feel fuller longer after meals. Lowers blood sugars, in part by reducing the production of sugar in the liver. Stimulates insulin secretion by the pancreas. Decreases inflammation throughout the body, which leads to Adiponectin release and fat lipolysis.
What Does The Dosing For GLP-1 weight loss medications Look Like?
The dosing for every patient starts at 0.25mg (5 units), and typically, we adjust the dose every 3-4 weeks. However, every patient will respond differently—some may increase faster, while others may remain at the same dose longer.
We like to explain formulations of GLP-1 weight loss medications as a lifestyle change. While on the medication, we want to ensure you are building healthier habits. For example, we encourage our patients to eat more protein and fewer carbs, exercise more, drink more water, and reduce alcohol consumption.
Every patient is different, and responses to treatment will vary. That’s why we schedule follow-up appointments to customize the program to your individual needs.
Weeks 1 – 4: 0.25 mg (5 units)
Weeks 5 – 8: 0.50 mg (10 units)
Weeks 9 – 12: 1.0 mg (20 units)
Weeks 13 – 16: 1.75 mg (35 units)
Weeks 16+: 2.5 mg (50 units)
What Are The Side Effects Of GLP-1 weight loss medications
The most common side effects are nausea and constipation. Other possible side effects include acid reflux, stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you experience any of these symptoms, please inform your provider, as you may be on too high of a dose.
The risk of serious side effects increases in patients with hypoglycemia, kidney problems, or a history of allergic reactions. This medication is not insulin and should not be used if you have type 1 diabetes or develop diabetic ketoacidosis. Formulations of GLP-1 weight loss medications should not be used with any other GLP-1 medications.
Risk of thyroid c-cell tumors: Patients with a personal or family history of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2 or Medullary Thyroid Cancer should not take formulations of GLP-1 weight loss medications. Additionally, patients with a history of pancreatitis should consult their medical provider, as using these medications may increase the risk of developing pancreatitis.
GLP-1 weight loss medications are once-weekly injectable treatments that act as dual glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonists. They work by increasing insulin production, lowering glucagon secretion, and targeting areas in the brain that regulate appetite and food intake. A small modification in the molecule allows these medications to remain active in the body for weeks, whereas the natural version produced by the body lasts only minutes.
These medications are ideal for individuals struggling with weight management who have not found success with traditional methods like diet and exercise alone. They may be particularly beneficial for those with obesity or weight-related health conditions, helping to regulate appetite and support long-term weight loss efforts. However, they are not suitable for everyone, and a healthcare provider should be consulted to determine if they are the right option based on individual health needs
GLP-1 weight loss medications are innovative, once-weekly injectable treatments that function as both GLP-1 receptor agonists and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonists. They enhance insulin production, reduce glucagon secretion, and target brain areas responsible for appetite regulation. A slight modification in their structure allows for an extended duration of action, making them effective for long-term weight management.
GLP-1 weight loss medications works through multiple mechanisms:
- Delays gastric emptying, promoting satiety with smaller portions
- Slows intestinal motility, extending the feeling of fullness
- Lowers blood sugar by reducing hepatic glucose production
- Stimulates pancreatic insulin secretion
- Increases energy expenditure through GIP receptor activation, contributing to weight loss
Primary Benefits
- Reduced appetite and food cravings
- Significant weight loss
- Improved A1C levels
- Enhanced cardiometabolic measures
GLP-1 weight loss medications: Dosing Schedule
The typical dose escalation for GLP-1 weight loss medications is as follows:
- Weeks 1-4: 2.5 mg (25 units)
- Weeks 5-8: 5 mg (50 units)
- Weeks 9-12: 7.5 mg (75 units)
- Weeks 13-16: 10 mg (100 units)
- Weeks 21-24: 15 mg (150 units)
The side effect profile of GLP-1 weight loss medications is similar across treatments. Common side effects include nausea and constipation, with less frequent occurrences of acid reflux, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you experience these symptoms, inform your healthcare provider, as they may indicate a need for dosage adjustment.
The risk of serious side effects is higher in patients with hypoglycemia, kidney issues, or a history of allergic reactions. GLP-1 weight loss medications are not suitable for individuals with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis and should not be used alongside other GLP-1 medications.
Important: Patients with a personal or family history of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2 or Medullary Thyroid Cancer should not use GLP-1 weight loss medications due to the risk of thyroid c-cell tumors. Those with a history of pancreatitis should consult their healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Decreased appetite and cravings. Weight loss. A1C reduction. Improved cardiometabolic measures.
How Do GLP-1 weight loss medications Work:
Delays how quickly the stomach digests food, leading to a feeling of fullness and satisfaction with smaller meal sizes. Slows intestinal motility so you will feel fuller longer after meals. Dual action receptors allow for lower blood sugars, in part by reducing the production of sugar in the liver. Stimulates insulin secretion by the pancreas. GIP increases energy expenditure, resulting in weight loss.
What Does The Dosing for GLP-1 weight loss medications Look Like:
The dosing for dual glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonists typically follows a gradual titration schedule to minimize side effects like nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort. The general dosing progression is as follows:
Typical Dosing Schedule
- Starting Dose: 2.5 mg once weekly for 4 weeks (to allow the body to adjust).
- Dose Increase: If tolerated, increase to 5 mg once weekly for at least 4 weeks.
- Further Adjustments: Based on individual response and tolerability, the dose may be increased to:
- 7.5 mg once weekly after at least 4 weeks at 5 mg
- 10 mg once weekly after at least 4 weeks at 7.5 mg
- 12.5 mg once weekly after at least 4 weeks at 10 mg
- Maximum dose: 15 mg once weekly after at least 4 weeks at 12.5 mg
Key Considerations
- Personalized Adjustments: Some patients may stay at a lower dose for longer if side effects are significant.
- Medical Supervision: Dosing adjustments should be made under healthcare provider guidance.
- Consistency: The medication should be taken on the same day each week.
- Injection Site Rotation: Administer subcutaneously in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, rotating sites to avoid irritation.
What Are The Side Effects Of GLP-1 weight loss medications:
Most common side effects are nausea and constipation. Other side effects: acid reflux, stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you experience any of that, please let your provider know as to you may be on too high of a dose.
The risk of serious side effects increases in patients with hypoglycemia, kidney problems, and risk of allergic reactions. This medication is not insulin and should not be used if you have type 1 diabetes or if you develop diabetic ketoacidosis. GLP-1 weight loss medications should not be used with any other
GLP-1 medication. Risk of thyroid c-cell tumors. If a patient or any of their family members have been diagnosed with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2, or Medullary Thyroid Cancer, they should not take GLP-1 weight loss medications. If a patient has ever had pancreatitis, they should consult with their medical provider, as using GLP-1 weight loss medications can increase their risk of developing pancreatitis.
Why We Choose STRIVE
We opt for Strive Compounding Pharmacy for our GLP1 medications due to their exceptional commitment to patient satisfaction. Strive’s quality control process is rigorous, with 26 additional testing cycles compared to standard pharmacies. This extensive testing assures us that the products we prescribe are both safe and effective.
A key advantage of Strive is its unique formulation of GLP1 medications. Both their semaglutide and GLP-1 weight loss medication compounds are enhanced with two beneficial additives:
1. Glycine: This addition is designed to help maintain muscle mass. We understand the effort you’ve put into achieving your current physique, and the inclusion of Glycine aims to preserve your hard-earned muscle during the weight loss.
2. Vitamin B12: A small amount is incorporated to potentially boost energy levels.
By selecting Strive, we ensure you receive high-quality GLP1 medications with thoughtful enhancements to support your overall health and weight management goals.
Why “STRIVE”:
We choose to use Strive Compounding Pharmacy for our GLP1 needs because Strive is a Pharmacy that cares about our patients’ satisfaction. Strive tests their products for their potency and cleanliness 26 more times than other pharmacies. We want to know that our product is safe and effective and using Strive, we know that we can have that guarantee.
In addition to that, Strive compounds both of their GLP1’s (Semaglutide and Tirzepatide) with Glycine and B12. Glycine helps prevent muscle mass loss. We know you have worked so hard to get your body to where it is at, so with the additive of Glycine, it will help with preventing losing your muscle mass. There is a little amount of B12 in the compound as well, and B12 helps with energy!
Face & body aftercare instructions MORPHEUS8
NORMAL HEALING PROCESS INCLUDES
- Hot or stinging feeling at the treatment site. This should subside within a few hours but can last longer.
- Redness and swelling are normal. It can last a few hours or several days.
- Demarcations are a normal process that typically lasts a few days. You may not notice these at all, or you may have very prominent areas that look like red and raised with visible needle pinpoint scabbing. These can last a few days and, in some cases, up to six months.
- Histamine reactions can occur and involve raised and bumpy areas. This type of reaction is indicated by itching that can be mild or severe. Using the right post care can help prevent this reaction. Severe Itching can be managed with medications, please contact us if this occurs.
- Bruising can be common, especially around the eye area and neck. Bruises fade within 1- 2 weeks.
AFTERCARE INCLUDES
- Keep the treated area clean and protected with a thin layer of occlusive ointments such as Aquaphor or post laser ointments. You may resume your normal skincare routine after 32 hours. Sunscreen use resumes after 32 hours.
- Avoid sun exposure for up to 2 weeks or until any demarcations have faded. Darker skin tones need to be extra careful and avoid the sun for longer periods of time. Avoid retinol, AHA’s, and BHS’s for 2 weeks post treatment or until skin appears normal. Avoid self-tanning products until completely healed.
- Mild exercise is okay, avoid intense heated exercise or heavy sweating.
MANAGING COMPLICATIONS
- Itching is the most common side effect. Take any type of antihistamine or anti-allergy medication as directed. Hydrocortisone 1% OTC can also be used to aid in itching relief.
- Use a cold compress for swelling and seep slightly elevated. Demarcations can last a few days or as long as 1-6 months.
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