Semaglutide is the active ingredient in three popular weight loss medications available today: Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. In addition to being used for weight loss, these medications help control diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors such as high cholesterol and high triglycerides.
While Ozempic and Mounjaro are FDA-approved for diabetes, at present, Wegovy is the only medication FDA-approved for weight loss.
Frequent Questions About Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro
How Do These Medications Make You Lose Weight?
Ozempic and Wegovy are part of a new generation of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, also known as incretins.
Incretins not only increase the production of insulin but also its sensitivity, producing a type of insulin that works better at clearing excessive blood sugar in the bloodstream. Incretins also have the ability to slow down the digestion of food, so you feel fuller for a longer period of time.
Mounjaro is in the same class as Ozempic and Wegovy but contains an extra ingredient to help diabetic patients to lose weight and control blood sugar. However, as we speak, Mounjaro is FDA-approved for diabetes but not yet for weight loss.
How Much Weight Can You Expect to Lose?
The average patient using the abovementioned medications can lose 25 to 35 pounds.
Typical treatment comprises a weekly self-injected medicine, increasing the dose steadily over three months.
Are There Any Side Effects in Taking the Medications?
Some patients might initially experience nausea, stomach upset, and diarrhea, but they usually subside in a few weeks. Some patients may also tolerate the medicine very well without any difficulties.
Prescription Medication for Weight Loss in Montclair, NJ
Getting a prescription for weight loss medication in Montclair, NJ, is not as simple as calling your doctor and asking for a script.
First, you will need to complete a medical evaluation and blood work. In addition, you will need to meet specific criteria, such as:
- A BMI of at least 30; or
- A BMI of at least 27 if there are concomitant risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or both.
Semaglutide is also available through compounding pharmacies, and some clinics can prescribe it to patients—however, they are not FDA-approved.
Finally, in addition to using Wegovy or Ozempic, it is always recommended to follow a healthy diet and regular physical activity.
Dr. Aurora DeJuliis is well-trained in prescribing weight loss medications and helping patients establish a healthy lifestyle and diet—contact (973) 542-7533 to schedule an appointment today.
Love your health.