Tirzepatide and Semaglutide are both GLP-1 medications that can offer life-changing results for people who are struggling with their weight. When exercise and diet don’t seem to be enough, weight loss can be frustrating. At Magnolia Medical & Aesthetics San Antonio, our medically supervised semaglutide and tirzepatide GLP-1 program are science-backed medications to support sustainable weight management.

If you’re curious about GLP-1 medications and how they may help you lose weight, we have answers below.

How Do GLP-1 Medications Work for Weight Management?

First, let’s talk about what GLP-1 is. GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone naturally produced in the gut that helps regulate insulin secretion, appetite, and digestion. And GLP-1 medications mimic this hormone.

So, How Do GLP-1s Work?

Well, originally, GLP-1 medications were developed as part of a drug regimen to treat Type 2 diabetes. But during clinical trials, doctors noticed that GLP-1 medications also helped participants in the trial lose weight because it significantly reduced hunger.

In short, GLP-1 medications work with your body and help you lose weight by reducing and regulating your appetite. These medications also improve how your body uses and produces insulin, which prevent food cravings and blood sugar spikes. In addition, they help your body burn fat more efficiently. GLP-1s are shots taken once a week, generally by injecting the medicine into your upper buttock, arm, belly, or thigh.

Who Is a Good Candidate for GLP-1 Medications?

If you’re looking for GLP-1 medications for weight management, Magnolia Medical & Aesthetics medical weight loss program could be for you. Our semaglutide and tirzepatide medically supervised programs have been shown to support safe and effective weight loss. We combine these medications with medical monitoring, lifestyle guidance, and ongoing support to help you reach and maintain your goals.

To find out if you’re a good fit for GLP-1 medications, our providers will first do a complete physical exam. We will also discuss your weight history, weight loss options you’ve tried in the past, and other factors to determine if GLP-1 medication could be right for you.

How To Get the Most Out of Your GLP-1 Treatment

If you’re considering using GLP-1 medications for weight management, it’s important to understand that these medications are not miracle drugs. In short, they will not magically melt fat. Instead, they are a tool that can be used in conjunction with other tools, such as exercise and a healthy diet. This is a much better regimen because it helps you to more efficiently lose weight and maintain it. So, while talking a GLP-1 medication, it’s important to engage in plenty of exercise, choose healthy foods, and eat balanced meals.

Taking GLP-1s Long-Term

While GLP-1 medication is designed to be taken long-term, you should not take it forever. When you and your medical provider agree it’s the right time, you should stop taking the medication. Some of the factors involved in choosing the right time are based on your specific weight loss goals, any side effects, and your ability to maintain lifestyle changes.

For these reasons, Magnolia Medical & Aesthetics providers will develop a long-term maintenance plan for you. For example, lower dose or alternative treatment to taper you off slowly to minimize rebound hunger and weight gain. This is why it’s so important to combine your GLP-1 medication with other tools like healthy meals and regular exercise. Once you completely stop taking your GLP-1 medication, you will already have a plan in place to maintain your weight and a healthy lifestyle. In this way, the risk of regaining weight should be minimal.

Are GLP-1s Safe Medications for Weight Management?

Many people worry about the side effects of GLP-1s because of stories they’ve heard on the news or social media. But GLP-1s are considered safe when used as prescribed and under the supervision of your healthcare provider. As with any medication, there is a risk of side effects. Some of the most common side effects associated with GLP-1s are:

• Forgetting to eat
• Muscle loss (if you’re not eating enough)
• Diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and vomiting
• Dizziness or fatigue (especially as your body adjusts)

How To Get Started With GLP-1 Medications

Albeit there are lots of online services that promise access to inexpensive GLP-1s, beware who you trust. It’s essential to consult with your doctor and work with a trusted medical provider to obtain a prescription for a GLP-1 medication. In this way, you can be assured it’s beneficial for you versus randomly buying it for a purpose that may not be right for you. Moreover, online services don’t have access to your complete medical history that Magnolia Medical & Aesthetics and your doctor has.

Schedule an appointment with Magnolia Medical & Aesthetics to discuss GLP-1 medications for weight management and find out if you’re eligible for our medical weight loss program.