Semaglutide for Weight Loss

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Walnut Creek, CA

Semaglutide is a medication that was initially approved to treat type 2 diabetes. Also known as Wegovy or Ozempic, Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist, a natural hormone that acts on your brain to regulate your appetite and food intake. Semaglutide lowers your appetite and how much food you eat to help you lose weight. It works best with a balanced diet and exercise and can be used long-term to maintain weight loss results. Losing weight can be a challenging and confusing journey to embark on, especially with the barrage of weight loss trends and fad diets on the market. Instead of short-term commitments to unsustainable weight loss methods with highly variable results, start your healthy weight loss journey under a doctor’s supervision. 

At Evolved Medical, we offer Semaglutide as part of our FDA-approved weight loss program. Our Staff will work closely with you to determine if Semaglutide is a suitable option for your weight loss journey. We are here to help you achieve your best physical shape in a science-backed, healthy, and reliable method. Say goodbye to crash diets and hello to a healthier you contact our office at 925-433-8444 today to book a free consultation.

More About Semaglutide

Semaglutide belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic the effects of GLP-1. GLP-1 is a jack of all trades regarding appetite regulation and weight management. Different body parts, such as the pancreas, intestine, and neurons in the brain, produce GLP-1. [1] What’s unique about this hormone is its ability to slow down digestion and emptying of the stomach, making us feel full for longer periods. Think of it like a traffic jam in your gut – food takes longer to pass through, leaving you feeling fuller longer. [2]

But that’s not all – GLP-1 also directly influences our appetite by inhibiting food intake, regardless of whether or not we’re hungry. It’s like having a personal appetite regulator that tells us when we’ve had enough to eat, regardless of what our stomachs say! Additionally, when GLP-1 is administered peripherally, it can affect the central regulation of feeding, impacting our brain’s perception of hunger and fullness.

So, how does GLP-1 accomplish all of this? By working on both central and peripheral receptors in the gut and brain. This two-pronged approach makes GLP-1 effective in promoting satiety and aiding in weight loss. 

Like GLP-1, Semaglutide can slow down gastric emptying and gut motility, which helps people feel fuller for longer periods. Semaglutide is also known to suppress appetite, which can lead to reduced calorie intake and weight loss.

What are the Benefits of Semaglutide?

Semaglutide has been shown to improve several markers of metabolic health, such as reducing insulin resistance and inflammation, which can help to prevent chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. [3] Furthermore, the weight loss achieved with semaglutide has been associated with improved quality of life and psychological well-being, including reductions in symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Improve Glycemic Control

By activating GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas, semaglutide stimulates insulin production, which helps lower blood sugar levels.

Reduce Blood Pressure

Semaglutide has been shown to benefit blood pressure by reducing systolic and diastolic blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes. [4]

Improve Lipid Profiles

Semaglutide has been shown to improve lipid profiles by decreasing triglyceride levels and increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels, which are both important indicators of cardiovascular health. [5]

Ideal Candidates

Studies have shown that semaglutide is particularly effective for individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher, which is classified as obesity, and for individuals with a BMI of 27 or higher who also have weight-related health conditions such as 

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol

Semaglutide should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise programDr. Rajguru has put together a comprehensive program that maximizes the chances for successful weight loss.

Testimonials

“After 4 pregnancies, now in menopause, a failing thyroid, and messed up metabolism, I couldn’t lose a pound on my own without gain two back. My weight kept creeping up more and more and I felt trapped in my own body and hated where I was. Most of my weight couldn’t be accounted for necessarily in calories or lack of activity, and no matter what diet or excerises I tried did not work and I was stuck. I’ve lost 36 pounds in 5 months, and am slowly and steadily reaching my lowest weight in 32 years. I am extremely happy and grateful to use semaglutide! Getting help is not cheating! I honestly look and feel better now than in my younger days! When I’m with my grandson, people think I’m young enough for him to be mine!” 

Annette, Age 54
“I haven’t been using semaglutide for very long and have had an unusually busy and chaotic personal life for the time I’ve been on the medication so I haven’t noticed drastic numbers yet. However, I am very pleased with this program because I have no side effects at all and I feel very good on it. I’ve always been physically active but struggle with bloating and hormonal weight fluctuations. Since starting semaglutide, I’ve noticed that I have a lot less bloat and my weight has been very stable with almost no fluctuations. I am less stressed about my weight and have been able to eat with less restriction. Mentally it has put me in a good place with my relationship with food and weight.” 

Dawn, Age 54

    Personal Consultation

    Before prescribing semaglutide for weight loss, Dr. Rajguru and the staff at Evolved Medical will conduct a thorough personal consultation to determine if it is the right choice for the patient. The consultation will typically involve a comprehensive medical history, physical examination, and discussion of the patient’s weight loss goals and prior weight loss attempts. 

    We will also review existing medical conditions, medications, and allergies to ensure Semaglutide is safe and appropriate for the patient. In addition, we may perform laboratory tests, such as blood work or a lipid panel, to assess the patient’s overall health and determine if any underlying medical conditions may impact the effectiveness or safety of semaglutide. 

    Based on the results of the consultation, we will develop a personalized treatment plan for the patient that may include Semaglutide, as well as other lifestyle modifications and medications as necessary. The goal of the personal consultation is to ensure that the patient receives the best possible care and achieves the desired weight loss results in a safe and effective manner.

    Schedule your consultation today by calling (925) 433-8444 or filling out our online form to get started.

    Preparation

    Following a healthy diet and exercise program is important, as Semaglutide works best with these lifestyle modifications. Patients should be prepared for potential side effects of semaglutide, including nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting, particularly during the initial weeks of treatment. Patients who are diabetic and on blood sugar-lowering medications, should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and how to treat it, as Semaglutide can increase the risk of hypoglycemia in individuals with type 2 diabetes who are taking insulin or other diabetes medications. [6] 

    Patients should be committed to following their treatment plan and attending follow-up appointments to monitor progress and adjust treatment as necessary.

    The Procedure

    Semaglutide is administered via injection, much like insulin. During your consultation, you will receive detailed instructions on how to properly administer the medication, including:

    • The appropriate injection site
    • Injection technique
    • Dosage

    You will also be provided with supplemental resources, such as instructional videos and written materials, to ensure you have all the necessary information to use Semaglutide safely and effectively. 

    It is important to follow the instructions provided to you carefully and to ask any questions that you may have, as using the medication incorrectly or at the wrong dose could impact its effectiveness or safety.

    We will further guide you on

    • How to properly store the medication
    • How to dispose of used needles and syringes

    With proper instruction and support, most patients find using Semaglutide for weight loss easy and convenient, and it quickly becomes a routine part of their daily self-care regimen.

    How Much Weight Will I Lose with Semeglutide?

    The amount of weight loss a patient can expect with Semaglutide will vary depending on various factors, including:

    • Starting weight
    • Lifestyle habits
    • Underlying health conditions

    In one of the largest studies using once weekly semaglutide injections, the average patient lost approximately 15% of their total body weight.  That means a 200 lb person lost 30 pounds on the medication. Other studies show that the estimated change in mean body weight from the beginning of treatment to week 68 was -9.6% for those taking semaglutide 2.4 mg.

    Patients taking semaglutide 2.4 mg achieved long-term weight reductions of at least 5%. [7]

    Long-term weight loss success depends on continued commitment to healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet. We will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that considers your needs and goals and will provide guidance and support throughout your weight loss journey.

    What is the Cost of Semaglutide for Weightloss in Walnut Creek, CA?

    Evolved Medical offers a simple and transparent pricing model.  The commercial form of this medication costs $1000-1500/month.  Since we get the medication through our compounding pharmacy, the costs are a fraction of this amount.

    Please contact us to get the latest pricing.

    The best part is no insurance is required, so you won’t have to worry about any deductibles or copays. We take pride in offering straightforward pricing that is easy to understand, with no hidden fees or surprises. Plus, we stand behind our services with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, allowing you to cancel anytime for a full 30-day refund, no questions asked. With our program, you can have peace of mind knowing that your healthcare needs are handled without any financial or bureaucratic obstacles.

    FAQ

    Do you offer telehealth visits?

    Yes, both in-office and telehealth are offered.

    How long can I be on Semaglutide? 

    Semaglutide has been demonstrated to be safe for long-term use. People have been safely using it for years.

    Where does the medication come from?

    This medication is formulated with B12 at our compounding pharmacy. 

    Will my use of this medication limit it from others? 

    No. Diabetic patients have been having difficulty obtaining the commercial form of semaglutide known as Ozempic.  Our semaglutide is supplied by our compounding pharmacy and will not impact the availability of the commercial forms of this medication like Ozempic and Wegovy. 

    Will I gain weight after stopping the medication?

    Trials show that a third of the weight loss is permanent a year after stopping the medication.  We taper this medication on an individual basis for each patient. This allows more sustained weight loss, but may require more long term use of the medication at lower dosing in order to avoid rebound weight gain.     

    References

    1. Cabou C, Burcelin R. GLP-1, the Gut-Brain, and Brain-Periphery Axes. The Review of Diabetic Studies. 2011;8(3):418-431. https://doi.org/10.1900/rds.2011.8.418
    2. Shah M, Vella A. Effects of GLP-1 on appetite and weight. Reviews in endocrine & metabolic disorders. 2014;15(3):181-187. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11154-014-9289-5
    3. Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Calanna S, et al. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine. 2021;384(11). https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
    4. Di Folco U, Vallecorsa N, Nardone MR, Pantano AL, Tubili C. Effects of semaglutide on cardiovascular risk factors and eating behaviors in type 2 diabetes. Acta Diabetologica. 2022;59(10):1287-1294. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00592-022-01936-6
    5. Hjerpsted JB, Flint A, Brooks A, Axelsen MB, Kvist T, Blundell J. Semaglutide improves postprandial glucose and lipid metabolism, and delays first-hour gastric emptying in subjects with obesity. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism. 2017;20(3):610-619. https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.13120
    6. Mayo Clinic. Semaglutide (Subcutaneous Route) Side Effects – Mayo Clinic. www.mayoclinic.org. Accessed April 1, 2023. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/semaglutide-subcutaneous-route/side-effects/
    7. Davies M, Færch L, Jeppesen OK, et al. Semaglutide 2·4 mg once a week in adults with overweight or obesity, and type 2 diabetes (STEP 2): a randomised, double-blind, double-dummy, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial. The Lancet. 2021;397(10278):971-984. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(21)00213-0