Losing weight is rarely easy; in fact, it can be incredibly challenging for many people. From trying different diets to engaging in various exercise routines, reaching sustainable weight loss goals can often feel like an uphill battle. Furthermore, some people struggle with medical conditions that make it even more challenging to lose weight. Over the years, there have been many weight loss medications available on the market, but not all of them have been effective for everyone – and many of them have come with unwanted side effects.
One medication gaining attention is semaglutide, which has shown potential in aiding weight loss when prescribed and supervised by a healthcare provider. Like all medications, it is essential to consult a doctor to determine if it’s right for you and to understand any associated risks.
Understanding Semaglutide In Its Compounded Form
Semaglutide is a medication that was initially used as an active ingredient in treating type 2 diabetes. Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which mimics the effects of the natural GLP-1 hormone released in the gastrointestinal tract. This hormone helps to regulate your blood sugar levels by stimulating the body’s production of insulin.
As a diabetes medication, semaglutide has shown great success in managing blood sugar levels. It’s been used as an active ingredient in popular FDA-approved medications. However, researchers noticed that patients who took semaglutide also experienced significant weight loss as a side effect. This discovery led to the development of semaglutide for weight loss purposes.
Compounded medicine is created when compounding pharmacies combine different ingredients and change strengths or dosage forms to create a customized medication. This allows for more
flexibility in dosages and delivery methods, making it easier for patients to adhere to their
treatment plans; however, it is important to remember that even though compounded drugs may
have the same active ingredients as other FDA-approved drugs, they are not regulated by the
FDA.
MCP’s compounded semaglutide is a modified version of the commercial medication, often formulated with cyanocobalamin, which is a form of Vitamin B12.
The Role Of GLP-1 Hormone In Weight Management
The GLP-1 hormone plays an essential role in appetite regulation and weight management. It is released by specialized cells in the gastrointestinal tract, particularly after meals. This hormone acts on the brain’s appetite control center, signaling a feeling of fullness and slowing down digestion, allowing for better absorption of nutrients from food. This also helps reduce hunger
and food intake.
In individuals with obesity or diabetes, there may be a deficiency or resistance to GLP-1, leading to increased appetite and weight gain.
Semaglutide As A GLP-1 Receptor Agonist
Semaglutide acts as a GLP-1 receptor agonist, meaning it binds to the GLP-1 receptors in the body and activates them. This enhances the function of GLP-1 and helps regulate appetite and weight by stimulating insulin production and reducing food intake.
As a member of the GLP-1 class of medications, semaglutide works similarly to other GLP-1 receptor agonists to manage blood sugar levels and promote weight loss.
How Semaglutide Works For Weight Loss
Semaglutide helps with weight loss by suppressing appetite and reducing calorie intake. It does this by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which signals to the brain that the body is full and doesn’t need more food. This leads to decreased food cravings and a reduced desire to eat, resulting in a decrease in overall calorie intake.
When the body consumes fewer calories than it burns, it turns to stored fat for energy, resulting in weight loss. Therefore, semaglutide can help individuals achieve their weight loss goals by reducing calorie intake through suppressed appetite.
Additionally, semaglutide has been shown to have other weight loss benefits, such as improving insulin sensitivity and decreasing fat storage. This makes it a powerful tool in managing obesity and related health conditions.
Is It Safe To Use The Compounded Version For Weight Loss?
In general, mass-produced medications undergo rigorous testing and approval processes by the FDA to ensure their safety and effectiveness. Commercially produced semaglutide has been deemed safe and effective for diabetes treatment and weight management by the FDA.
Compounded versions of semaglutide are not FDA-approved, as compounded medications are specifically customized for individual patient needs and are not subject to the same regulatory standards as commercially manufactured drugs. It’s important to note that these medications should only be prepared and prescribed by qualified healthcare professionals to ensure appropriate use and compliance with safe compounding practices.
The FDA permits compounding FDA-approved medications in specific cases, such as if there is a shortage of a particular medication – which there has been for semaglutide, due to its increasing popularity as a weight management aid.
However, it’s crucial to obtain compounded medications from reputable compounding pharmacies that adhere to strict quality standards. Unfortunately, not all compounding pharmacies operate at the same level, leading to variations in the safety and effectiveness of compounded medications. Therefore, you should consult a healthcare provider before using compounded semaglutide for weight loss and only obtain it from a trusted source.
The Advantage Of Semaglutide Shots Versus Other Interventions
There are many different interventions available for weight loss. Each approach has advantages and disadvantages, making it essential to understand the options before deciding on a suitable weight loss plan. The following compares the use of semaglutide to other common weight loss approaches:
- Traditional medications: Traditional weight loss medications often work by suppressing appetite or reducing the absorption of fat and carbohydrates. While effective, they may come with side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. In contrast, semaglutide helps people feel fuller and reduces food intake while improving insulin sensitivity and addressing appetite regulation and underlying metabolic issues. However, it’s important to note that semaglutide may also have similar side effects; you can read more about them here. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any weight loss medication or program.
- Diet and exercise: Although both diet and exercise are essential components of weight loss, they may not be sufficient for some individuals. Semaglutide can be a helpful addition to a healthy lifestyle by reducing appetite and making it easier to maintain a calorie-controlled diet. It can also help with weight maintenance once an individual has reached their target weight.
- Surgical interventions: Weight loss surgeries such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy can effectively promote significant weight loss. However, these procedures also have potential risks and complications, including infection, bleeding, and nutrient deficiencies. Moreover, surgery may not suit everyone due to underlying health conditions or personal preferences. Semaglutide offers a non-invasive alternative that can be tailored to an individual’s specific needs and preferences.
Compounded Semaglutide Available For You
At MediVera Compounding Pharmacy™ (formerly known as University Compounding Pharmacy), we understand the importance of custom and quality medications. We offer compounded semaglutide in the following strengths to meet individual needs and preferences.
Semaglutide/Cyanocobalamin 2mg-0.4mg/mL 1mL vial
This is the smallest strength of compounded semaglutide we offer, containing 2mg of semaglutide and 0.4mg of cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12) per milliliter. This strength is suitable for those who may be new to the medication or have a lower starting dose prescribed by their healthcare provider.
Semaglutide/Cyanocobalamin 5mg-0.4mg/mL 2mL vial
Our highest dose of compounded semaglutide is 5mg per milliliter, combined with 0.4mg of cyanocobalamin. This strength is ideal for those who require a higher dose to achieve their desired results.
Secure Your Compounded Semaglutide With Us
At MediVera Compounding Pharmacy (formerly known as University Compounding Pharmacy), we prioritize the health and safety of our patients. Our compounded semaglutide is prepared in a state-of-the-art facility that adheres to strict quality standards. However, you should consult a healthcare provider before beginning any type of medication, including semaglutide. Remember, regular exercise and a healthy diet should be used to support a healthy lifestyle.
Secure your supply of compounded semaglutide. Explore our weight loss management solution today!
