FAQ: Everything you need to know about Semaglutide
Have more questions? Feel free to talk to one of our pharmacists.
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is in a class of medications called “GLP1 agonists”. Semaglutide is series of amino acids arranged in a sequence that is very similar to a hormone our bodies produce named “glucagon like peptide-1” (also known as GLP1).
What does GLP1 do?
Our body secretes GLP1 when food is consumed. In basic terms, GLP1 helps the body secrete insulin and lets the brain know to reduce appetite. Medications that simulate natural GLP1 are useful to help type two diabetics manage their blood sugar and weight. These same effects are why GLP1 type medications are useful for weight loss in non-type 2 diabetic patients.
What does Semaglutide do?
Semaglutide acts like the body’s own GLP1. Prescribers use Semaglutide to help people lose weight.
Is there a shortage of Semaglutide and other similar medications?
Yes, there is a massive shortage because many doctors put their patients on these medications to help their patients lose weight.
Is there illegal or black market, counterfeit GLP1 Semaglutide being sold without a prescription?
Legitimate Semaglutide that is not dispensed by a pharmacy or doctor and which is labeled “for research purposes”, or “not for human use” is highly suspect for not having gone through the approved drug distribution channels in the United States. Such medication should be avoided. These sources are in all probability violating the regulatory requirements that must be in place for appropriate dispensing of Semaglutide.
Who is Health Dimensions and how do they get Semaglutide?
Health Dimensions (HDRx) is a nationally accredited compounding pharmacy. We are one of the nation’s first accredited compounding pharmacies. Materials that are legally authorized for compounding are defined in the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Therefore, a compounding pharmacy (503A and 503B) must meet certain requirements established by the FDA and the Board of Pharmacy to prepare Semaglutide. HDRx sources Semaglutide from an FDA registered supplier. Our facility and quality management system are accredited by the Accreditation System for Healthcare for compliance with the United States Pharmacopeia, the scientific body that creates standards for both drug manufacturing and pharmacy compounding. HDRx compounded Semaglutide meets the regulatory requirements for compounding.
How long does it take to lose weight with Semaglutide?
Most patients start losing weight within 6-10 weeks but some people experience weight loss sooner. Dosage is generally adjusted upward every 4 weeks until weight loss occurs.
My Semaglutide Injection is not working
A number of items could be in play:
1) A larger dose may yet be needed. Dosing based on Semaglutide is usually as follows. If satisfactory weight loss is occurring, dosage does not need to be increased.
| Treatment | Weeks | Once weekly Subcutaneous Dosage |
| Initiation | 1 through 4 | 0.25 mg |
| Escalation – as needed | 5 through 8 | 0.5 mg |
| 9 through 12 | 1 mg | |
| 13 through 16 | 1.7 mg | |
| Maintenance | 17 and onward | 1.7 mg or 2.4 mg |
2) Factors such as inadequate sleep or unmanaged chronic stress can impair weight loss.
3) We do advise the implementation of the Mediterranean diet to improve the success of your weight loss medication. The services of a registered dietitian and exercise coach can be helpful as well.
How long can you take semaglutide injection?
There is no defined time limit for taking semaglutide injection. At this point, there are patients who have been taking semaglutide for up to 3 years.
What side effects can occur with GLP1's
The most common side effects reported in ≥5% of patients treated with Ozempic are:
- nausea (16% to 20%)
- vomiting (5% to 9%)
- diarrhea (8% to 9%)
- abdominal (stomach) pain (6% to 7%)
- constipation (3% to 5%)
Is there an increased risk of cancer when taking GLP1's?
Patients with family history of thyroid cancer to discuss this with their doctor. A recent NIH study showed no increased risk of cancer in humans after 1-3 years of GLP1 use.
Semaglutide and cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis
What lifestyle changes should be employed to help the weight loss process?
To the extent that poor dietary habits and inactivity contributed to weight gain, new habits must be formed. In very simple terms, one could learn and practice an eating habit reflecting the Mediterranean diet. For exercise, one could target walking as a basic form of exercise. Some experts recommend 10,000 steps daily. For additional assistance, seek the consultation of a Registered Dietitian. The services of an exercise coach or trainer could be valuable as well.
What supplements might be helpful while taking Semaglutide?
Semaglutide reduces the movement of contents through the GI tract. To aid the digestive process, some patients have found Ortho Digestzyme to be a helpful addition. Since semaglutide can slow GI tract motility, leading to constipation and even nausea, we recommend a fiber supplement called Guar Gum. These are the products we sell and which go by the trade name of Acacia Fiber as well as Sunfiber.
Are there any recommendations once you’ve completed Semaglutide injection?
Hi-Phenolic (2 caps either once or twice daily before meals) may be an appropriate supplement to take.
How do I request for a consultation?
A BHRT consultation with a pharmacist is a 15 minute paid appointment. Contact the pharmacy to schedule.
Any prescription recommendation that results from the consultation must be authorized by a prescriber. Rx recommendations can be sent to the prescriber of your choice.
Related Blogs
Unlocking the Potential of Semaglutide in Michigan: Your Guide to Accessing It Safely
Semaglutide: MedSpas & Weight-Loss Clinics
Compounded Semaglutide: A Strategic Solution During Ozempic Shortage
Nutritional Support for Semaglutide using Ortho Molecular Supplements
