Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist medication (originally developed for type 2 diabetes) that mimics a hormone your body naturally releases after eating.

It’s now widely used for medical weight loss under various brand names like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus and in compounded forms.

Key Benefits of Semaglutide

1. Significant Weight Loss
   Clinical trials show average loss of 15–20% of body weight in 68 weeks.
2. Powerful Appetite Suppression
   Slows stomach emptying and acts on brain centers to reduce hunger and cravings, making it easier to eat less without feeling deprived.
3. Improved Blood Sugar Control
   Increases insulin release when blood sugar is high and reduces liver glucose production — excellent for prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and insulin resistance.
4. Better Metabolic Health
   Lowers A1C, blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation markers. Reduces risk of heart disease (proven cardiovascular benefits in high-risk patients).
5. Sustainable Results
   Weight loss is gradual and steady (1–2 lbs per week), helping preserve muscle when combined with protein and exercise.
6. Additional Benefits
   • Increased energy and mental clarity  
   • Reduced joint pain from less body weight  
   • Improved PCOS symptoms and fertility in some women  
   • Decreased addictive food behaviors (“food noise” quiets down)

Common Side Effects of Semaglutide

Usually mild to moderate, improve over time or with dose adjustments.

• Nausea (most common, affects ~30–50% of users)  
• Vomiting  
• Diarrhea or constipation  
• Abdominal pain / bloating  
• Heartburn or acid reflux  
• Fatigue or headache  
• Injection-site reactions (redness, itching)

Long-Term Considerations

• “Ozempic face” (facial sagging from rapid fat loss) – can be minimized with strength training and adequate protein  
• Muscle loss – prevented by resistance exercise and ~1.6g protein/kg body weight  
• Gastrointestinal changes may persist while on the medication  
• Rebound weight gain is common if stopped without lifestyle changes

How Lifespark Minimizes Side Effects

• Slow, individualized dose titration (e.g., starting at 0.25 mg)  
• Anti-nausea support and dietary guidance  
• Weekly check-ins to adjust as needed  
• Lab monitoring when appropriate

At Lifespark Health & Wellness, our physicians customize dosing, monitor progress weekly and pair Semaglutide (or Tirzepatide) with nutrition guidance and body composition tracking for optimal, long-term success.

Semaglutide is a game-changer for many. Schedule your consultation today!

‍