What is Semaglutide? Gravity is proud to announce Semaglutide (generic for Wegovy and Ozempic) as a treatment option for weight loss. Learn how an average individual can lose up to 15 (+) % or 35 lbs of their body weight with Semaglutide. In June 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Semaglutide (Wegovy) injection once weekly for weight management in patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or greater who have at least one weight-related medical condition or in patients with a BMI of 30 or greater. Semaglutide was originally used for diabetes and sold under the name Ozempic at a low dose of 1 mg. Wegovy, a higher dose of the same drug Semaglutide, was evaluated for weight loss and the results were dramatic. How it works: Semaglutide works by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) that targets areas of the brain that regulate appetite and food intake; it is a powerful appetite suppressant. It also works by increasing the production of insulin and appears to enhance growth of β cells in the pancreas, which are the sites of insulin production. Additionally, it inhibits glucagon in the liver, which is a hormone that increases blood sugar. It has been known to aid not only in weight loss, but helps to lower glucose levels in those who are pre-diabetic or who have type 2 diabetes, delays stomach emptying, and slows intestinal motility. This leads to a feeling of fullness. At Gravity we start at a low dose which can be increased gradually over 16 to 20 weeks to a max of 2.4 mg weekly. Not all patients will need the max of 2.4 mg weekly though; it is common for patients to have great success with minimal side effects around 0.25 - 1 mg weekly. What to Expect: For your initial visit, you will need to schedule an appointment with our office. Prior to arriving for your appointment, you will have paperwork to complete and then you will have your consultation with a provider who will use their discretion (based on the FDA recommendations for treating obesity) to determine if Semaglutide is a safe and good option for you. Your treatment will be determined by evaluating your past medical history, any current medications you take, your vital signs, and your body mass index (BMI). You are NOT a good candidate for Semaglutide if you have any of the following: diabetic retinopathy, low blood sugar, decreased kidney function, pancreatitis, medullary thyroid cancer, family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2.