Semaglutide is an injectable prescription medication used to improve blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes, as well as to promote weight loss in obese or overweight adults. When combined with diet and exercise, semaglutide can be an effective tool for managing diabetes and losing weight.
Semaglutide offers several key benefits:
- Semaglutide helps the body release more insulin when blood sugar levels rise after meals - It decreases glucose production in the liver - These blood sugar regulating effects can lower A1C levels (a key marker of blood sugar control)
- Semaglutide acts on appetite centers in the brain to reduce hunger - This often leads to decreased food intake and significant weight loss - In studies, people lost on average 12-16% of their body weight over 68 weeks
- Semaglutide has been shown in research trials to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events like stroke and heart attack
- Only needs to be injected under the skin once per week - Has a track record of safety and efficacy based on extensive research - Covered by most major insurance plans for diabetes and obesity treatment
With the right lifestyle changes, semaglutide can transform health in multiple ways. That's why Balance Hormone Clinic incorporates it into customized treatment plans.
There are two main groups that may benefit from semaglutide:
If you have type 2 diabetes and struggle to control blood sugar with oral medications or other injectables like insulin, semaglutide could be an option. Key criteria include:
Before starting, your doctor will check kidney function, liver enzymes, and additional safety parameters.
If your body mass index (BMI) is 30 or higher (or 27 with an obesity-related condition like high blood pressure), you may qualify for semaglutide weight loss treatment. Considerations include:
Balance Hormone Clinic will ensure you meet eligibility guidelines through labwork and a comprehensive exam.
Now that we've covered the basics of what semaglutide is and who may benefit, let's explore the step-by-step process if you pursue treatment with Balance Hormone Clinic:
- Review health history, medications, and weight loss attempts - Discuss lifestyle habits, challenges losing weight, readiness to change - Conduct physical exam, take vital signs - Order lab tests to confirm treatment is appropriate and safe
If approved for treatment based on consult and labs: - Provide injection instructions and supplies - Set weight loss goals and make a lifestyle plan - Outline schedule for follow-up and ongoing support
Once started on weekly semaglutide injections: - Check in regularly on progress, side effect management - Adjust dose based on response and tolerance - Modify diet, activity plan if needed to enhance weight loss - Continue treatment for 12-20 months based on clinical guidelines
The team at Balance Hormone Clinic guides patients through every phase of treatment. We optimize results while carefully monitoring safety.
Here is a 58-word interesting, unexpected and relatively unknown fact about semaglutide: Semaglutide was originally discovered in the saliva of a venomous reptile called the Gila monster. Scientists found that components of the lizard's saliva helped regulate blood sugar levels and used it as inspiration to develop semaglutide as a treatment for diabetes.
What sets Balance Hormone Clinic apart is our comprehensive, compassionate approach:
Treatment plans address the whole person for lifechanging yet sustainable results. We craft customized diet, exercise, and behavior change strategies to complement semaglutide.
Our nurses and clinicians follow clinical best practices informed by the latest research. We are led by Dr. Thomas Mulligan, a board certified physician with over 20 years specializing in obesity medicine and hormone therapies.
In addition to semaglutide and other weight loss medications, we offer medical weight loss injections, anti-aging therapies, sexual health treatments, and regenerative procedures. We continually adopt breakthrough technologies and treatment options as the medical field evolves.
Our modern clinic provides a relaxing atmosphere for vulnerable conversations. Treatment rooms ensure privacy during injections and consults. Our medical spa room offers massage chairs for a calm oasis between treatments.
Balance Hormone Clinic has the knowledge, technologies, and environment for semaglutide to transform your health.
To enhance semaglutide's effectiveness during treatment, we offer tips on lifestyle and leisure in the Leesburg area:
- Work with our dietitian to design a balanced, sustainable nutrition plan - Focus on whole, minimally processed foods high in fiber and protein - Incorporate strength training 2-3 times per week to boost metabolism - Build up to 150 minutes per week of moderate activity like walking or cycling
- Guided imagery, breathwork, and mindfulness can activate relaxation pathways - Enjoy soothing services like massage at Lakeside Medspa - Spend time outdoors around beautiful scenery at parks like James Taylor Park or Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
- Join a fitness class like Barre3 or a hiking group to expand social connections - Consider counseling for help overcoming emotional eating patterns - Stay accountable and motivated by checking in regularly with our staff
Building healthy habits and networks boosts semaglutide's effects. Our team guides patients on evidence-based ways to improve all facets of health.
There are several potential reasons someone may develop a hormone deficiency:
- As we get older, hormone levels naturally decline - For example, testosterone decreases 1% per year after age 30
- Disorders affecting glands that produce hormones can alter levels - Examples are type 1 diabetes, thyroid disorders, adrenal insufficiency
- Brain tumors, pituitary gland problems or other anatomical defects may impair hormone production
- Excess body fat, poor nutrition, inadequate sleep and activity, and high stress deplete hormones - Making healthy changes can often restore balance
- Certain prescription drugs impact hormone pathways - Steroids, opioids, and psychiatric medications are common culprits
Comprehensive lab testing is key for accurately diagnosing hormone imbalances. Tests estimate levels of target hormones along with other markers that provide context.
Blood tests check total and free hormone levels, binding proteins, organ function, red blood cells, and cholesterol ratios. Follow-up testing ensures treatment efficacy and safety.
Urine and salivary analyses offer convenient, non-invasive options. However, blood allows the most precise measurement for clinical decision making.
Balance Hormone Clinic leverages advanced testing technologies for insights into customize treatment plans. We explain all tests and results so patients understand health status.
If testing reveals clinically low hormone levels, Balance Hormone Clinic crafts a tailored treatment plan which may include:
- Testosterone, estrogen, thyroid hormone, or others taken to reach healthy levels - Multiple delivery methods: shots, pills, patches, pellets, gels and creams
- Key micronutrients like zinc, magnesium support hormone pathways - Targeted oral and IV vitamin formulas optimize levels
- Diet plans ensure adequate healthy fats, protein, fiber - Physical activity, sleep, and stress management bolster hormones
Follow-up testing coupled with symptom tracking allows medication adjustment for optimal wellness. Hormone therapy managed by specialists like those at Balance Hormone Clinic helps patients reclaim health, vitality and quality of life.
