weight management options
GLP-1
GLP-1 agonists for weight loss
The FDA currently approves the use of GLP-1 agonists to help treat obesity. This is because these GLP-1 agonists have weight loss effects. Obesity is a chronic condition in which you have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher.
Healthcare providers may also prescribe GLP-1’s for people who are overweight along with other health conditions if losing weight can help manage the coexisting conditions. Overweight is a BMI of 25 to 29.9
***Compounded medications
Are NOT FDA-approved and are prescribed off-label based on individual medical need. Retatrutide is still in clinical trials. We utilize compounding pharmacies from the Green List.
Injections weekly in office
·
Compounded Tirzepatide
·
·
Injections weekly in office · Compounded Tirzepatide · ·
Risks / Benefits
What are the potential benefits of GLP-1 agonists?
Other than lowering blood sugar levels and reducing weight, studies show that GLP-1 agonists may have other potential benefits, like:
Lowering blood pressure.
Improving lipid disorders.
Improving fatty liver disease.
Reducing your risk of heart disease and kidney disease.
Delaying the progression of diabetes-related nephropathy.
What are the side effects of GLP-1 agonists?
The most common side effects of GLP-1 agonists include:
These side effects are more likely to happen when you start the medication or if you’re taking an increased dose.
Other side effects can include:
Mild tachycardia (increased heart rate).
Infections.
Indigestion (upset stomach).
You may also have temporary mild itchiness and/or redness on your skin at the site of the injections.
Severe — but rare —
side effects can include:
Acute (sudden) kidney injury.
Worsening diabetes-related retinopathy.
Tirzepatide is a once-weekly injectable prescription medication that mimics two natural gut hormones (GIP and GLP-1) to improve blood sugar control and reduce appetite.
How It Works
Insulin regulation: Tells the pancreas to release more insulin when blood sugar levels are high.
Digestion slowdown: Delays how fast food leaves the stomach to help you feel full longer.
Appetite suppression: Acts on brain regions that control hunger and reduce food cravings.
Side Effects & Risks
Mild to moderate: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, and decreased appetite.
Serious warnings: Risk of thyroid C-cell tumors (seen in animal studies); do not use if you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2.
Other risks: Pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, or severe low blood sugar when combined with other diabetes drugs like insulin.