The Skinny on Drugs like Mounjaro and Ozempic

With its burgeoning prevalence worldwide, obesity is proving to be a health disaster of the century. Yet, amidst this chaos, the emergence of novel medicine provides hope. One such innovative drug is the GLP-1 agonist. Since the FDA approved GLP-1 agonist for weight loss in 2014, drugs like semaglutide have shown excellent performance in helping people achieve a healthier weight. 

If you or a loved one is struggling to lose weight and looking for better ways to achieve a sustainable healthy weight, this blog will be an excellent resource for you. 

So, without further delay, let's get into it.

What are GLP 1 Agonists?

Glucagon-like peptide 1 agonists are drugs most commonly used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Recently, these drugs have also found their use in obesity. They mimic the action of a natural hormone GLP-1, secreted into the circulation in response to feeding. GLP-1 then acts on the pancreas and signals it to release insulin. Finally, insulin acts on the special proteins in the body to regulate glucose levels in the blood. 

Besides boosting insulin release, GLP-1 agonists act on the gut tissues to slow gastric emptying. This creates a feeling of fullness and compels you to stop eating, ultimately reducing your overall caloric intake. 

The effects of GLP-1 agonists for weight loss go beyond their local actions on the gut. They act on the appetite-regulating pathways in the brain, with a significant reduction in hunger. This creates an enhanced feeling of fullness after meals. This pathway reduces the intake of calories and, by doing so, promotes weight loss. 

Several clinical trials support the efficacy of GLP-1 agonist for weight loss. Research even indicates that GLP-1 agonists show superior results in long-term weight management compared to other anti-obesity medicines. Additionally, it was also revealed that a newer GLP-1 agonist, Tirzepatide, shows superior weight loss outcomes compared to older ones, like Semaglutide or Liraglutide. 

Apart from their greater efficacy, GLP-1 agonists also have a good safety profile. Therefore, these medications are becoming a cornerstone in treating conditions related to metabolic syndrome. Their popularity is because they benefit users by combating both diabetes and weight issues.

What Are the Different Types and Administration Routes of GLP-1 Agonists?

Different forms of GLP-1 agonists are available in the market. However, they differ slightly in their chemical structure and duration of action. A few important ones are Semaglutide, Liraglutide, and Tirzepatide, which are commonly prescribed for their proven efficacy and safety. Among these, Semaglutide can be used once weekly and is known to have remarkable effects on reducing weight and glucose control.

GLP-1 agonists are available in oral or injectable form. Among these, injectables are more popular and are more effective than their oral counterparts. Injectables are usually given through the subcutaneous route. This route of administration is very convenient for the patient and has a long half-life. Therefore, it can be used with less frequent dosing. 

Oral GLP-1 agonists likeSemaglutide are also present, and they can be easily taken by mouth. This form is good for those who dislike needles. The presence of more than one route of administration offers convenience to patients and boosts their adherence to the dosages. This makes GLP-1 agonist an excellent drug for weight loss. 

Whether you should opt for the oral forms or injectables depends on your personal preference, lifestyle, or your specific condition. You should know that proper administration is the key to the best outcomes. This highlights why it is incredibly important for you to seek professional guidance before starting to take GLP-1 agonists for weight loss. 

How GLP-1 Agonists Work to Provide Weight Control?

The GLP-1 agonist has several mechanisms through which it causes weight loss. But, it does so mainly through the ability to regulate the hunger signals in the brain and boost a feeling of fullness. At the time of administration, the drug interacts with the brain receptors responsible for regulating hunger. This action leads to a reduced appetite. 

Additionally, it increases the time for emptying the gastric contents—the process by which food empties from the stomach to the small intestines. This slows the passage of food through the gut and favors a reduced caloric intake. 

More so, GLP-1 agonists stimulate insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner. This action prevents an exaggerated high insulin peak that otherwise predisposes your body to fat storage. Such a balanced insulin response not only helps with weight but also with maintaining your energy throughout the day and reducing the tendency to overeat. 

When looking at all of it together, it appears that while taking the GLP 1 agonist, you will experience a reduced appetite and a greater preference for healthier, less calorie-dense foods. Remarkably, these benefits also show positive behavioral changes in your eating habits.

Further evidence from clinical studies revealed that most individuals treated with Semaglutide achieve a reduction in body weight of up to 15% over 6 to 12 months, depending on baseline weight and treatment adherence.

Health Benefits of GLP-1 Agonists Beyond Weight Loss

The benefits of GLP 1 agonists go far beyond mere control of weight gain. These drugs show enormous benefits in all other aspects of metabolic health and hence are more and more increasingly used in clinical practice. 

Enhanced Glycemic Control

Improving insulin sensitivity and beta-cell function is important in glycemic control. GLP 1 agonists are thus specifically useful in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Improved control of blood glucose also leads to a decrease in the risk of microvascular and macrovascular complications of diabetes like neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy. 

Cardiovascular Benefits

There is supporting evidence that GLP- 1 agonists reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiovascular death, especially in high-risk populations with type 2 diabetes. 

Effect on Liver Health

GLP 1 agonists have been shown to cause reduced liver fat content, inflammation, and fibrosis.

Long-term Outlook and Realistic Expectations 

When using GLP-1 agonists for weight loss, you must have realistic expectations. Realistic goals are important, as these drugs can yield massive weight loss, but you also need to make modifications in your diet and lifestyle to achieve the full potential. 

Long-term management

Weight loss with GLP-1 agonists is gradual. The most substantial effects are usually noted with use over 6 to 12 months. It is important for you to clearly understand that GLP-1 agonists are not a medication for short-term use, but rather a long-term strategy for managing health. 

Sustainability

You may need long-term medication to sustain the weight you have achieved under the guidance of a healthcare professional. For example, sometimes discontinuation of the drug can make your body regain the shredded fat. In such cases, you must receive continuous evaluation and support from the healthcare professionals at R&G Elevated Health. 

Individualized plans

What if you are looking for an individualized plan that is made only for you? This is where our expert team at R&G Elevated Health saves the day. 

We guarantee that the treatment will be tailored according to your needs and health conditions, to ensure maximum benefit of using GLP-1 agonists. Our program includes regular follow-ups to modify the treatment when needed, with a commitment to a lifestyle that will help maintain weight control.

Where to Find Help?

Having professional support is important when it comes to using GLP-1 agonist for weight loss. Thankfully for you, we are here to help. We at R&G Elevated Health specialize in accessible and personalized programs for everyone. Prospective clients can start by booking an initial consultation with Dr. Rahman or NP Hannah who are experienced in tailoring weight loss plans to individual needs.

We at R&G Elevated Health use the Semaglutide magic because our clients are worth dropping those few pounds of extra body fats. Our starter pack, including the initial consultation and seven weeks of dose, costs just $275, thus making our program both pocket-friendly and accessible. Authorized by the unmatched coordination of the duo, Dr. Rahman and NP Hannah, our customized plans are dedicated to addressing the needs and preferences of each of our clients.

In the first consultation, we discuss your complete health history, current health status, and weight loss goals and advise a treatment plan accordingly. Next, we provide continuous and dedicated support through follow-up consultations, to make sure that the weight loss process is effective and sustainable. 

For more information and to book consultations, contact us directly through the website. Take the first step toward a healthier life.

A Quick Recap

GLP 1 agonist offers a remarkable solution for people who are struggling to achieve a healthier weight. Not only that, these drugs also promise an improvement in the overall health of your body and a better quality of life. 

By gaining control of your appetite and giving you a greater sensation of satiety, these remarkable novel medicines improve your metabolic health. In addition, it has a positive effect on your cardiovascular health and glycemic control and is also protective of liver health. 

Say no more to unhealthy weight gain!

At R&G Elevated Health, we are here to create a personalized plan for you. Contact us today to learn how our telemedicine program can be customized to your needs.