WEIGHT LOSS
Hiraya Medical Spa is proud to offer cutting-edge treatment options for weight loss under the supervision of our medical doctor, Dr Cristina Ignacio. Under her guidance, you can embark on a transformative journey toward better health. With medical consultation to review medical history/labs, choosing the right treatment plan and guidance for lifestyle modifications so you can unlock your full potential and regain control of your weight-related concerns.
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SEMAGLUTIDE
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). GLP-1 medications simulate the natural hormone produced in the intestines that helps people feel full after they eat.
Semaglutide improves control of eating, with patients reporting fewer cravings, reduced hunger, and increased feelings of fullness thus leading to weight loss.
Studies have shown that it is effective in reducing HbA1c, body weight, and systolic blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes. It was also studied for its potential to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke or death with patients with Type 2 Diabetes and heart or blood vessel disease.
Compounded Semaglutide ** contains Semaglutide + B12 which stimulates insulin production and reduces glucose production. As a result, this helps to lower blood sugar levels. Combined with B12, it further supports this process by promoting the proper functioning of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Additionally, B12 can reduce feelings of nausea, which can occur with Semaglutide use.
Who should take Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is typically recommended for adults with a BMI of 30 or greater, or anyone who has a BMI of at least 27 and also has another weight-associated medical condition such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, is a potential candidate for medication. In all cases, however, discussing your options with a knowledgeable healthcare provider is important.
When someone repeatedly fails at weight loss or loses only to regain, it can be frustrating and discouraging. These new classes of drugs have been giving those people hope. “For people who have not had success with lifestyle alone or have been previously unsuccessful with other medications, these medications offer a new option that may support their health goals,” Dr. Gudzune says.
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Who should NOT take Semaglutide?
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People who have a history or family history of a rare thyroid cancer (medullary thyroid carcinoma) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 should not use this medication. Similarly, anyone with a history of pancreatitis and heavy alcohol use should discuss the safety of these medications with a healthcare provider.
Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using these medications, and anyone who plans to become pregnant should have a discussion with their doctor about whether and how to use these medications.
Finally, individuals with a history of disordered eating should discuss the drugs with their doctor and therapist before starting.
How do I use Semaglutide and when do I see the results?
Semaglutide is injected under the skin in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm as directed by your doctor, usually once weekly. It may be used with or without food. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor will start you on a low dose first to decrease your risk of stomach/abdominal side effects, and gradually increase your dose.
While taking semaglutide, some people begin to see results within the first eight weeks or earlier but most begin to see results within 12 weeks. Clinical trials have shown that patients had an average reduction in body weight of 5-10%. Healthy weight loss is defined as 1-2 pounds per week. The most successful patients supplement their medication with diet and lifestyle changes.
Here are a few tips:
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Consume a balanced diet. Focus on nutrient-rich foods like fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins. Cut back—or even eliminate—processed snacks.
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Stay active. The best way to do this is to choose an exercise you enjoy. It might be hiking, dancing, swimming, or hitting the gym. Regular exercise improves your overall well-being, including your mental health.
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Get plenty of sleep. Studies show lack of sleep can lead to weight gain. Try to sleep for 7 to 9 hours nightly.
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Keep a positive outlook. A good attitude can help you through the more challenging times of your weight-loss journey. Be kind to yourself and celebrate even small successes.
What are the side effects of semaglutide?
Common side effects of semaglutide include:
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Nausea
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Vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Abdominal pain
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Constipation
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Headaches
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Strategies for reducing or managing side effects include a slow titration [which means adjusting the dose], adequate hydration and use of medication for symptom control as needed.
**All medications are made in a State Board of Pharmacy licensed sterile compounding pharmacy. We work with pharmacies licensed in all 50-states using only the highest ingredients.
The medication you may be prescribed is a compounded medication and is not associated with the Novo Nordisk™ company or the name brand medications Saxenda®, Victoza®, Wegovy®, or Ozempic®.
2. TIRZEPATIDE
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Tirzepatide, while introduced as a diabetes medication, is now known as a popular weight loss injection, helping countless people worldwide take control of their weight once and for all. Not only does this prescription injection help improve weight, but it has been improving blood sugar (glucose) in adults with type 2 diabetes for decades. Now, studies show that Tirzepatide is an excellent option for weight loss. It can help people lose weight and maintain a healthy weight, reduce hunger, reduce cravings, regulate blood sugar, improve metabolic health, and more. This medication is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor, making it the first drug of its kind. As a result, the innovative weight management tool is a game changer for many people who have tried multiple attempts to lose weight and improve their health with no luck.
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How Does Tirzepatide Enhance Weight Loss Treatment?
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Tirzepatide works like similar Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) weight loss treatments, like Semaglutide injections. However, there is a big difference between the two formulas. Tirzepatide has an extra molecule to give it an edge when helping people lose weight. The dual-action formula mimics the action of not one but two incretin hormones involved in blood sugar control: GLP-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). The unique dual action makes Tirzepatide the first-in-class medication that acts on both receptors.
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GIP is a hormone that may complement the effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists. In preclinical models, GIP has been shown to decrease food intake and increase energy expenditure, resulting in weight reductions. When combined with GLP-1 receptor agonist, may result in greater effects on markers of metabolic dysregulation such as body weight, glucose, and lipids.
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What is the difference between Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide?
Many people now consider these two new weight loss prescriptions very similar. In most ways, they are. They are administered on a weekly basis and dose titrated depending on the patient’s response.
First, Semaglutide is a GLP-1 weight-loss injection. While Tirzepatide is also a GLP-1, it has a leg up on Semaglutide by being a dual-action medication acting on both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors.
Studies show that Tirzepatide is as effective as Semaglutide with weight loss. One of the most notable benefits of using Tirzepatide is that it has a lower incidence of side effects, including nausea.
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Clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of both Tirzepatide and Semaglutide in aiding weight loss. Tirzepatide studies has shown impressive results with over half of the study participants losing over 20% of their body weight when administered the highest dose of 15mg weekly. To consider, side effects will be dose dependent.
