Excess weight and obesity have become significant health concerns, affecting millions of people worldwide. In vibrant New Orleans, residents are increasingly seeking effective and sustainable solutions to manage their weight. Among the innovative approaches gaining popularity is the use of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) medications. These medications, initially developed for managing type 2 diabetes, have shown promising results in weight loss, providing a solution for busy individuals striving for a healthier lifestyle. 

At Slimmetry Medical Center we offer GLP-1 medications in NOLA including Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. Book a consultation with us today to learn more. 

What are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 medications work by mimicking the action of a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1 in the body. GLP-1 is responsible for various physiological processes, including regulating appetite, promoting satiety, and slowing down gastric emptying. By enhancing these effects, GLP-1 medications can assist individuals in achieving significant weight loss while maintaining improved glycemic control.

The Benefits of GLP-1 Medications

GLP-1 medications can support your weight loss efforts and result in a 20% or more reduction of your starting body weight. There are several benefits of adding GLP-1 medications to your weight loss regimen including:

• Appetite Suppression: GLP-1 medications act on the brain's receptors to suppress appetite and reduce cravings, making it easier to adhere to a reduced-calorie diet. Patients often experience a decreased desire to eat, leading to better portion control and reduced snacking.
• Satiety Enhancement: GLP-1 medications promote feelings of fullness and satiety by delaying stomach emptying. This helps patients feel satisfied with smaller meals, reducing overall caloric intake and facilitating weight loss.
• Weight Loss Facilitation: GLP-1 medications have consistently demonstrated efficacy in promoting weight loss. Studies have shown that patients using GLP-1 medications in combination with lifestyle modifications have achieved substantial and sustained weight loss compared to those in placebo groups.
• Metabolic Benefits: In addition to weight loss, GLP-1 medications have positive effects on metabolic parameters. They can improve insulin sensitivity, reduce blood pressure, and lower cholesterol levels, leading to improved overall health.

Types of GLP-1 Medication

There are a variety of GLP-1 medications that can support your weight loss goals. Some of the most commonly prescribed medications include:

• Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy): Semaglutide is a once-weekly injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist that is FDA-approved for weight loss. Typically prescribed as Ozempic, it is also approved at a higher dose for chronic weight management under the brand name Wegovy. Semaglutide has demonstrated significant improvements in glycemic control and weight reduction.
• Tirzepatide (Mounjaro): Tirzepatide is a dual agonist medication as it combines the actions of both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. It is a once-weekly injection that has similar effects to semaglutide.  
• Liraglutide (Saxenda): Saxenda is approved for chronic weight management. It is usually administered once daily and has been shown to be effective in improving glycemic control and aiding weight loss. Because it has to be administered daily, most patients prefer a medication that only has to be injected once a week.
• Dulaglutide (Trulicity): Dulaglutide is a once-weekly injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist. It has shown positive results in reducing blood sugar levels and supporting weight loss efforts.

How to get GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss

GLP-1 medications require a prescription and therefore, a doctor’s visit is required. You may see a variety of doctors or online services offering GLP-1 medications, but patients will get more personalized treatment by visiting a clinic that specializes in weight loss.

If you are prescribed a GLP-1 medication for weight loss, your doctor will instruct you on how to administer the medication at home. Most GLP-1 medications are administered through a small injection that goes under the skin in the abdomen, thigh, or arm. 

At our esteemed clinic in NOLA, Slimmetry Medical Center understands the unique challenges individuals face in their weight loss journey. Our highly-trained healthcare providers recognize the potential of GLP-1 medications and are committed to offering cutting-edge weight loss solutions that help our patients reach their goals. With personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs and goals, we empower our clients to take control of their weight and achieve long-lasting results.

Who is a candidate for GLP-1 Medications?

Most patients who are overweight, obese, or struggling to meet their weight loss goals will qualify for treatment with GLP-1 medications in NOLA. Our doctor will meet with you to discuss your health history and take blood samples to ensure that the medication is safe. 

Those who should not take GLP-1 medications include pregnant or breastfeeding women, those with a history of thyroid disease, patients with pancreatic cancer or diseases, and those with an allergy to GLP-1 medications. 

If you are not a candidate for GLP-1 medications we offer other weight loss programs that can help you reach your goals. 

What type of weight loss can I expect on GLP-1 medications?

The amount of weight you will lose depends on a variety of factors including the medication you take, consistency with medication, and lifestyle changes. Some of the most effective GLP-1 medications, like Ozmepic, are clinically proven to reduce a patient’s weight by 20% or more over several months.

We typically start patients at the lowest dose of medication to monitor their response and gauge side effects. Once side effects subside at a dose, we can move you to a dosage that has the most impact on your weight loss efforts. We will consistently monitor your progress to adjust medication and/or dosing as needed. 

GLP-1 Medications vs Diet and Exercise

Diet and exercise are an important part of a healthy lifestyle, but many struggle to get to a healthy weight with these interventions alone. Studies have shown that GLP-1 medications drastically increase the amount of weight patients lose over time. 

GLP-1 medications can also act as a support if you are new to healthy eating and exercise. The medication will help you to establish healthy portion sizes and crave healthier foods. 

GLP-1 Medications vs Surgery

Many who are looking to achieve drastic weight loss have considered surgery such as gastric bypass. While surgery can be effective, it requires anesthesia and significant downtime that is not an option for many. GLP-1 weight loss injections offer convenience and similar results to weight loss surgery. Additionally, GLP-1 medications can help you make sustainable lifestyle choices that may not accompany surgery. 

Get Started with GLP-1 Medication in NOLA today! 

If you’ve been searching for weight loss solutions, GLP-1 medications are a safe and effective way to lose weight without drastically impacting your lifestyle. With GLP-1 medications, you can count on reliable and consistent weight loss progress with the help of a doctor. 

At Slimmetry Medical Center, we offer GLP-1 medication in NOLA. We service the entire New Orleans metropolitan area including Metairie, Kenner, Slidell, Covington, Marrero, and Gretna. Book a consultation with us today to learn more about weight loss with GLP-1 medications.