GLP-1 is an incretin hormone that plays a role in your appetite and digestion. Incretins (hormones released by your digestive tract) are sent out by your body after you’ve eaten a meal. They help lower your blood sugar by triggering insulin release and blocking sugar production. They also slow down how quickly food leaves your stomach (called gastric emptying).  The result of these actions causes you to feel full — lowering your appetite and causing you to lose weight. Medications like GLP-1 agonists are referred to as incretin mimetics since they “mimic” these effects.

Multiple GLP-1 medications were initially FDA approved for treatment of Type 2 diabetes.  More recently, they have been FDA approved for weight loss in non-diabetic patients.  They are commercially sold under brand names Wegovy and Ozempic.  In most cases, they are not covered by insurance unless you meet the BMI and other requirements.  For patients that qualify, we offer the commercial FDA approved GLP-1 medications in various brands.  For patients that don’t qualify for the commercial brands, we offer specially-compounded GLP-1 medications that are compounded with B12 to give you more energy while losing weight.

Is it effective?  The largest clinical trial showed that adults taking GLP-1 medications lost an average of almost 15% of their initial body weight. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8589135/. 

Here is the summary from the study:

“Used with lifestyle changes, 2.4 mg of subcutaneous SGT weekly resulted in a mean 10% to 15% weight loss (10 to 15 kg) over 68 weeks versus 2% to 3% (3 to 4 kg) with placebo (PC). Most (70% to 80%) lost 5% or more of their body weight. About 75% had gastrointestinal side effects, but few discontinued treatment. Weight was regained on medication discontinuation.”

In short, the GLP-1 medications are a major helper, but alone they are not “magic”. But when combined with our metabolic rejuvenation program, we can help every patient achieve sustainable weight loss.  With our metabolic rejuvenation program, we help patients identify and correct their specific metabolic issues.  What are you waiting on to get started?

Ready to get Proactive Wellness engaged to help you lose weight?

1. Call us between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM Monday through Friday on (703) 822-5003.
2. Text “Weight Loss” to -1-833-341-0780 along with a good time to call you for a fast, private response
3. Fill the contact form below and we will get back to you within 1-2 hours except weekends.