Prescriptions

These medications are prescription drugs. You’ll need a prescription from your healthcare provider to obtain them. Your doctor will assess your medical history and determine if these medications are appropriate for you.

Weight Maintenance

While these medications can be effective for weight loss, maintaining weight loss often requires lifestyle changes. These may include:

• Healthy diet: Consuming a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help support weight management.  
• Regular exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help burn calories, improve fitness, and boost metabolism.
• Behavioral changes: Developing healthy habits, such as mindful eating and stress management, can also contribute to weight maintenance.

It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider at Premier Wellness Florida for personalized advice on weight management and to discuss any concerns you may have about these medications.

Dosage and Administration

All three medications are administered as once-weekly injections. They come in prefilled pens that are easy to use.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss

Less common side effects may include:

• Pancreatitis
• Thyroid tumors
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

Interactions

These medications may interact with other medications, especially those that affect blood sugar levels. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.  

Cost

The cost of these medications can vary depending on factors such as insurance coverage and pharmacy discounts. It’s essential to check with your insurance provider to determine your out-of-pocket costs.

Long-Term Use

The long-term effects of these medications are still being studied. However, current research suggests that they are generally safe for long-term use.

Comparison to Other Diabetes Medications

Compared to older diabetes medications like metformin and sulfonylureas, Ozempic, Semglutide, and Tirzepatide offer several advantages:

• Improved blood sugar control: These medications often provide better blood sugar control than older treatments.
• Weight loss: They can effectively aid in weight loss, which can improve overall health.
• Reduced risk of cardiovascular events: These medications may lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

It’s important to note that these medications are not suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as severe gastrointestinal problems or a history of pancreatitis, may need to avoid them.

If you have any further questions about these medications, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide: A Closer Look

Semaglutide

• Dosage: Semaglutide is available in two formulations: once-weekly and once-monthly. The dosage is typically started low and gradually increased to the target dose.
• Side Effects: Similar to Ozempic, Semaglutide can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. In rare cases, more serious side effects like pancreatitis and thyroid tumors can occur.
• Interactions: Semaglutide may interact with other medications, especially those that affect blood sugar levels.
• Cost: The cost of Semaglutide can vary depending on factors such as insurance coverage and pharmacy discounts.
• Long-Term Use: Long-term studies are ongoing to assess the safety and effectiveness of Semaglutide.
• Comparison to Ozempic: While Semaglutide and Ozempic are both GLP-1 receptor agonists, they may have slightly different effects on some individuals.

Tirzepatide

• Dosage: Tirzepatide is administered once-weekly. The dosage is typically started low and gradually increased.
• Side Effects: Tirzepatide can cause similar side effects to Ozempic and Semaglutide, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. It may also cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
• Interactions: Tirzepatide may interact with other medications, especially those that affect blood sugar levels.
• Cost: The cost of Tirzepatide can vary depending on insurance coverage and pharmacy discounts.
• Long-Term Use: Long-term studies are ongoing to assess the safety and effectiveness of Tirzepatide.
• Comparison to Ozempic and Semaglutide: Tirzepatide is a dual agonist, mimicking both GLP-1 and GIP, which may make it more effective for weight loss and blood sugar control compared to Ozempic and Semaglutide.