If you’ve struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise, you’re far from alone—and advances in medicine have introduced new paths to success. One such path is semaglutide, a once‑weekly injectable drug initially used for type 2 diabetes (under names like Ozempic and Rybelsus) and now FDA‑approved for chronic weight loss under the brand Wegovy. In Rio Rancho, several local clinics and telehealth programs offer semaglutide injections for non‑diabetic patients seeking sustained weight loss. Here’s a full breakdown of what you need to know—how it works, where to get it, what it costs, and how to navigate the process safely. What is Semaglutide and How Does It Help Semaglutide acts like a hormone called GLP‑1, affecting hunger and metabolism. Its main weight-loss actions include: Slowing stomach emptying, so you feel full longer Suppressing appetite, reducing cravings and calorie intake Supporting metabolic health, including weight, glucose, an...
Semaglutide, marketed under brand names like Ozempic and Wegovy, has revolutionized weight management, offering significant weight loss for many individuals. However, a common concern arises: what happens after discontinuation, and can a gradual reduction in dosage help maintain the achieved weight loss? Understanding Semaglutide's Role in Weight Loss Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that aids in weight loss by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which regulates appetite and insulin secretion. Clinical trials have demonstrated that semaglutide can lead to an average weight loss of approximately 15% of body weight when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. However, weight regain is a significant concern after stopping the medication. The Impact of Gradual Discontinuation While research on the effects of tapering off semaglutide is limited, some experts suggest that a gradual reduction in dosage may help mitigate potential weight regain. Dr. Henrik...