It has been estimated that nearly 50% of adults living in American are overweight. Being overweight can be detrimental to your health. Some of the risks associated with being overweight include high blood pressure, diabetes, joint pain, poorly functioning gallbladder, coronary artery disease, sleep apnea, depression associated with body image, the list goes on and on. Weight loss can be very challenging for many people and often requires a customized plan for that individual.
In recent years there has been 2 new classes of medication developed to help patients lose weight. These classes of medications are GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptor and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist. These medications work mainly by slowing down how fast your stomach empties, this allows you to feel fuller longer and in theory you eat less helping you lose weight. They also help you burn adipose tissue(fat) and convert it to energy. GIP has decreased food intake and increased energy expenditure, resulting in weight reductions. While GLP-1 receptor agonist, has a more significant effect on glucose and body weight effects. Patient will notice the following:
- Substantial A1C reductions.
- Boosted weight loss.
- Improvements in cardiometabolic measures.
- Reduce appetite.
These medication typically work best in injection form and require a weekly injection. Studies show people lose 10-15% of their body weight being on treatment over the course of 6-12 months. Most patients will lose 2+ pounds a week on average.
How to get started
Typically I like to have recent blood work which looks at your complete blood count, comprehensive metabolic panel (liver, kidneys, electrolytes), thyroid, a glucose level and a HgbA1C. These can include previous blood work from another provider within the last 3-6 months. If you do not have recent blood work I can order you updated blood work. If you have health insurance it usually covers the cost of your blood work, but there may be some cost associated with blood work depending on your insurance.
Cost
Initial weight loss consultation fee is $250, plus the cost of the medication. Pricing of these medications vary depending on the patients dosing, and typically it is not covered under insurance. HSA/FSA are accepted however.
