What is Ozempic?
Ozempic and Wegovy are weight loss medications that are gaining popularity. These medications are in a class of drugs that mimic the effects of naturally occurring gastrointestinal hormones called Glucagon- like peptide 1 (GLP-1).
Mounjaro is a similar medication that not only mimics GLP-1 but it also mimics Gastric Inhibitory Polypeptide (GLP). These drugs were initially developed and approved for patients with diabetes but have shown to have improvement in cardiac disease as well as in patients with obesity or who are overweight and have additional conditions such as high blood pressure or sleep apnea for example.
What are the active ingredients in these medications?
The active ingredients in these drugs are semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro).
What is the difference between these two semaglutide and tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide has been shown to result in greater appetite suppression and is associated with greater weight loss. It can result in less side effects such as less nausea and is used off-label for obesity.
Tirzepatide can also be prescribed at higher doses which will result in a greater weight reduction.
How do these medications work?
This class of medications work by suppressing your appetite after a meal and results in delayed gastric emptying. This leaves you feeling full. It is also shown to increase insulin production.
How often do I take this medication?
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are medications that must be taken weekly by a subcutaneous injection. Instructional videos and guidelines will be provided to ensure you feel safe and confident giving yourself these injections.
Am I a candidate for these medications?
These medications are FDA approved for diabetes and obesity or obesity related conditions. It can be used off-label for weight loss. If you are overweight or have stubborn weight to lose you are a good candidate.
We ensure your blood work is normal prior to starting and you meet directly with the doctor. We encourage a healthy lifestyle with a balanced healthy diet and exercise to have success in your weight loss journey.
What are some risks or side effects?
Side effects are typically related to delayed gastric emptying. These symptoms can include
burping, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dehydration or constipation. In rare cases, patients may develop Pancreatitis, Kidney dysfunction, or Gallbladder problems.
Addtionally, with large amounts of weight loss or rapid weight loss, patients can develop loose skin in areas throughout the body including the face, termed Ozempic face.
What does the weight loss program include?
The SR Plastic Surgery Concierge weight loss program includes direct MD oversight and a personalized treatment plan. Prior to enrolling in the program, the doctor will meet with the patient virtually to discuss their weight loss goals.
After blood work has been reviewed, the patient will be sent information to enroll in the program. With an easy to use online subscription plan, patients will be billed automatically every 28 days to ensure that there are no skipped days of treatment and patients have their next month’s supply. Medications can be picked up in the office or shipped to your door for an additional charge.
Additionally, patients will have access to a HIPAA-compliant patient app with 24 hour access to the medical team and easy texting and communication. Instructional videos and forms are shared as well. The doctor will check in every 3 months with labs and a virtual follow-up appointment.
What is the cost of this program?
You can expect to pay a consultation fee and initiation fee to be enrolled in this program. This includes all appointments as well as treatment by the doctor. The cost of the medications varies based on the dosage and the medication itself. You can expect semaglutide to start between $400-500 per month for four weekly injections. Tirzepatide is slightly more expensive starting at $500-600 per month for 4 weekly injections
Do I need to continue semaglutide and tirzepatide after I reach my goal weight?
We encourage you to maintain a healthy lifestyle after you have reached your weight loss goals to maintain your weight. It is not uncommon however to require a small dosage or to space out your dosages to maintain your weight loss.
Book Your Weight Loss Program Consultation
Booking your weight loss program with Dr. Smita is the first step towards a healthier you. Dr. Smita, a renowned expert in weight management, offers personalized plans tailored to your unique needs.
Begin by scheduling an initial consultation where Dr. Smita will assess your current health status, lifestyle, and weight loss goals.
This comprehensive approach ensures a customized plan, incorporating balanced nutrition, exercise, and behavioral strategies. Follow-up appointments and ongoing support are integral parts of the program, helping you stay motivated and on track.
With Dr. Smita’s expertise and guidance, achieving your weight loss goals is within reach.