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. 

Semaglutide acts like the body’s own GLP1. Prescribers use Semaglutide to help people lose weight. 

Yes, there is a massive shortage because many doctors put their patients on these medications to help their patients lose weight.   

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.   

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. 

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.  

2) factors such as inadequate sleep or unmanaged chronic stress can impair weight loss 

3) a small percentage of patients don’t fare as well with semaglutide but do better with an alternative agent (similar but slightly different) called tirzepatide. We carry this item as well. 

4) 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. 

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%)

In rodents there is dose and duration dependent basis. It is unknown whether humans are affected in the same manner. 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   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37531876/ 

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 additonal assistance, seek the consultation of a Registered Dietitian. The services of an exercise coach or trainer could be valuable as well.