- Jeffrey Viscomi | M.D.
How Do You Qualify for Semaglutide Injections?
If you’re thinking about your weight loss options and whether Semaglutide would bring you results, you’re not alone. But who is Semaglutide meant for? How do you know if you’re a candidate for medical weight loss programs?
These types of programs are some of the safest and most effective ways to lose weight when nothing seems to work on your own. Professionally monitored Semaglutide programs allow patients to not only reduce the risk of health conditions associated with obesity but also feel better in their clothes every day.
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Semaglutide for Weight Loss in Non-Diabetics
Back in 2017, the FDA approved Semaglutide for type 2 diabetes, and it became a popular solution for managing blood sugar. Semaglutide mimics the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone that the gut releases in response to eating. One of the main roles of GLP-1 is to prompt insulin production to reduce glucose. In lower amounts, this is an excellent way to manage type 2 diabetes.
Even though weight loss was not the initial use, the benefits of Semaglutide injections can’t be denied. In higher amounts, GLP-1 can suppress appetite, helping you feel full. Combining this with the proper diet and exercise for your body can bring transformational results.
It only makes sense that the medication would become increasingly popular for weight loss when other options fail.
Can You Be Prescribed Semaglutide Without Diabetes?
Yes! Though it wasn’t the original intent, Semaglutide is highly useful for those struggling with healthy weight levels who don’t have diabetes.
To qualify for Semaglutide for weight loss purposes, patients must undergo a medical evaluation and meet certain criteria. These steps are in place to determine whether Semaglutide is the right treatment to reach your individual goals.
Getting Approval for Semaglutide Weight Loss Injections
In most situations, patients must be either obese or overweight with one weight-related health condition at minimum to qualify for Semaglutide. This determination can typically be made during a medical evaluation.
During the medical evaluation, your healthcare provider may review your:
- Medical history
- Current medications
- Potential risks
- Weight loss goals
Patients should be 18 years of age or older and ready to commit to check-ins as progress is made.
Semaglutide for PCOS: Does it Help?
Many women with PCOS are obese as there are metabolic and hormonal issues present that influence weight gain. The challenging part is that this predisposition to weight gain can only make PCOS symptoms worse.
A recent study shows an improvement in body weight for most PCOS patients taking Semaglutide, as about 80% saw at least a 5% decrease. Obesity is more common among those with PCOS than those without it. Since lifestyle modifications that include diet and exercise are among the first steps toward improving long-term prognosis, a program that includes Semaglutide can work wonders.
What BMI Qualifies You for Semaglutide?
As useful as it is for many patients, Semaglutide is only for some people, not everyone. To determine candidacy for Semaglutide, patients generally fall into the obese category or overweight with at least one weight-related health condition. Physicians classify overweight as a patient with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher. Obesity falls into a BMI of 30 or higher.
How Long Can You Use Semaglutide?
For most patients, Semaglutide prescription durations last around 68 weeks with varying dosages. While everyone’s journey is different with weight loss programs, the factors that contribute to how long you stay on Semaglutide include:
- Individual weight loss goals
- Response to the medication
- Overall health and wellness
- Recommendations from healthcare provider experience
It takes your body time to adjust to the medication, which is why providers will gradually increase dosage and monitor results as weight loss benefits are seen.
Some patients stay on Semaglutide far longer, especially if they have a health condition that makes weight management challenging. Whether you’re taking the medication long-term or for a little while, there are certain foods to avoid with Semaglutide to maximize your experience.
Setting Realistic Weight Loss Expectations with Semaglutide
As nice as it would be, there is no miracle way to instantly reach your weight goals and maintain that weight. Before starting Semaglutide, you should be committed to a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating well and staying regularly active. Not only will these things boost your results, but they will also set you up for success long term.
Who Should Not Take Semaglutide?
For most individuals struggling with obesity, Semaglutide is a safe and effective long-term solution. With that being said, there are a few reasons that some people cannot or should not try this weight loss injection method.
Patients are not recommended to use Semaglutide if there is a history of:
- Pancreatitis
- Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
- Gastrointestinal disease
- Gastroparesis
- Gallbladder disease
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)
Anyone who is pregnant (or planning to become pregnant), or breastfeeding should not use Semaglutide as its safety has not been tested for these situations. Naturally, the medication is not recommended if anyone has an allergy to Semaglutide or its components.
Current Medications & Semaglutide
Semaglutide may interact with other medications, which makes it important to discuss your current supplements and prescriptions with your provider. If you have diabetes and already take a different medication, talk to your doctor about the possibility of safe combinations.
Other nonprescription medications such as aspirin, cold medicines, etc. should not be taken with Semaglutide. The right provider will work with you to create a medication plan to smooth the transition.
Side Effects
Semaglutide for weight loss should only be taken by those who have a recommendation from a medical professional. It’s best as part of a medically supervised weight loss program with dosage adjustments as necessary.
The most common side effects patients can experience with Semaglutide are:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Indigestion
Every Semaglutide patient should prioritize a balanced diet and active lifestyle with the support of a weight loss injection professional.
Does Insurance Cover Semaglutide?
Insurance coverage with Semaglutide generally depends on the insurance company and the reason for treatment. For weight loss purposes alone, it’s not likely that patients will receive coverage. Patients with diagnosed conditions that Semaglutide can help manage symptoms have a better chance of insurance coverage (or partial coverage).
Semaglutide Injections Near Me: Weight Loss Assistance in Strongsville, OH
Determine whether you are eligible for Semaglutide weight loss injections in Strongsville with the specialists at Dōcerē. We are happy to help you make the best decision for your health and goals with an individualized treatment plan and guidance throughout your journey. With professional care and support, Semaglutide can be the tool to achieve long-term success in weight loss.
Call (440) 238-3331 to learn more about customizable Semaglutide injections in Ohio.
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Important Safety Information
CoolSculpting® is FDA-cleared to treat visible fat bulges in 9 areas of the body. Some common side effects include temporary numbness, discomfort, and swelling.
Dr. Jeffrey Viscomi
Dr. Viscomi received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Dayton. He then went on to graduate from Wright State University School of Medicine in the top 10% of his class. Following residency at the Cleveland Clinic, Dr. Viscomi began his Family Practice in Strongsville and quickly became a nationally recognized leader in primary care for his unique practice model. Dr. Viscomi is a member of the Aesthetics Practice Association and has completed extensive training in the use of laser in aesthetic procedures.