Ozempic
Semaglutide
Ozempic (Semaglutide) is a medication that was designed to be used for diabetes but is finding use in the area of weight loss. It is part of a class of drugs called GLP-1 agonists. The letters stand for glucagon-like peptide. There are GLP-1 receptors in the intestinal tract, liver, pancreas, heart, and brain. Among the many effects this hormone has is that it causes a slowing of intestinal transit, improvement in cardiovascular protection, increased sense of satiety, and a decrease in cravings.
Wegovy
Semaglutide
Wegovy (Semaglutide) is the same drug present in Ozempic but packaged and marketed with a specific goal of weight loss. The packaging allows for higher dosing. In clinical trials, it has shown up to 16% weight loss. We are finding that the best use of the product is to slowly titrate up to address the hunger needs of the individual. We are getting even better results than are being represented in the studies when we combine this drug with a diet that is designed to be low in refined carbohydrates. We are at times, also augmenting with other specific medications that are designed around individual patient needs and getting excellent results.
Mounjaro
Tirzepatide
Like Ozempic, Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is currently indicated for type II diabetes. It is considered to be a dual agonist drug. It works on the GLP-1 receptor but it has an even greater effect on the GIP (glucose insulinotropic polypeptide or gastric inhibitor peptide) receptor. The drug manufacturer has currently been granted fast track status by the FDA to seek approval for use as an anti-obesity medication. It works by increasing feelings of satiety (or fullness), decreasing food intake, slowing gastric emptying, and improving insulin sensitivity. Early clinical trials have shown up to a 22% loss of weight in a 6 month time period. This is being considered as a drug that can compete with bariatric surgery in terms of results. Post marketing studies are showing even better results in an obesity medicine clinic settings. Like Wegovy, we are finding that slowly titrating this drug according to individual needs and combining with a diet low in refined carbohydrates results in the best results. We have experienced an individual who struggles with severe obesity who has demonstrated 80 lbs of weight loss in 4 months. While these results are not likely to be typical for most patients, it demonstrates the power of this medication.