GLP-1 Agonist for Weight Loss

GLP-1 agonist drugs have gained popularity in recent years due to their effectiveness in weight loss and weight management. Our medical weight loss clinic specializes in GLP-1 agonist and GLP-1 inhibitor medications for weight loss. We can help you chose the best GLP 1 for weight loss and prescribe the GLP-1 approved for weight management.

GLP-1 Agonist for Weight Loss

GLP-1 Agonist Drugs

 

 

Tired of battling stubborn excess weight with no success? Struggling to lose those 10, 20, or more pounds gained over the years? You’re not alone. At Weight Loss Clinic LA, we understand how age, life changes, and declining hormones make slimming down much harder as we age.

 

Modern medicine now offers new hope with targeted prescription medications that tap into your body’s own appetite signals. Exciting new drug classes like GLP-1 agonists use your natural hormones to help control hunger, boost satisfaction after meals, and stimulate effective weight loss.

 

What Are GLP-1 Agonists?

 

To understand what GLP-1 agonists are and how they aid in weight loss, we need to understand GLP-1. GLP-1 is a hormone that your body naturally produces [1]. The main functions of GLP-1 are:

  • Stimulating insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.
  • Suppressing glucagon, a hormone that can reduce hunger.
  • Increasing the feeling of fullness by delaying the emptying of the stomach.

Best GLP 1 For Weight Loss

GLP-1 agonists work by mimicking the hunger-regulating hormone GLP-1 to activate receptors in the brain that suppress appetite, making you feel fuller faster, and longer. Thus, GLP-1 agonists are a powerful new class of injectable prescription medications used specifically for chronic weight management in obese and overweight adults.

 

How Do GLP-1 Agonists Work For Weight Loss

 

GLP-1 agonists target receptors in the brain and gastrointestinal tract to influence both appetite signaling and blood sugar regulation. They activate GLP-1 receptors, which stimulate insulin release from the pancreas. Insulin allows cells throughout the body to take up glucose from food to use as energy and properly regulate blood sugar levels.

 

In addition, activation of GLP-1 receptors in the brain increases feelings of fullness and suppresses appetite by slowing stomach emptying and intestinal motility. This leads to reduced food intake and decreased calorie consumption overall, which drives weight loss.

 

By tapping into this key pathway involved in appetite regulation, GLP-1 drugs promote weight loss by:

  • Improving satiety signals of fullness
  • Reducing hunger signals
  • Increasing insulin for better blood sugar control
  • Slowing digestion for decreased food intake

Weight Management Benefits

 

GLP-1 agonists offer a variety of weight loss and metabolic benefits when used appropriately under medical supervision:

Reduced Appetite and Hunger

By activating receptors involved in appetite regulation, GLP-1 agonists suppress hunger signals and help patients feel satisfied with less food. Patients report decreased drive to eat and reduced cravings throughout the day.

Increased Feelings of Fullness

GLP-1 agonists slow digestion, which promotes satiety after meals. Patients describe feeling full and content faster after starting a meal while taking these medications.

3.5 to 6.5 Pounds of Average Weight Loss

According to a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials published in the British Medical Journal. The study looked at people taking a GLP-1 agonist medication versus people not taking the medication over 12 months. 

On average, the group taking the GLP-1 medication lost 2.3 kg (about 5 pounds) more weight than the comparison group not getting the medication. The researchers are 95% confident that people on the medication lost between 1.6 and 3 kg (3.5 to 6.5 pounds) more than those not on medication [2].

Improved Body Composition

Because of substantial fat loss, weight loss reflects improved body composition – losing fat while retaining or even increasing lean muscle mass through metabolic changes.

Sustainable Results

Appetite regulation and weight effects persist with continued treatment over 1-2 years to achieve long-term weight maintenance

How it works

Contact us at +1 424-283-4273 to schedule an in office consult or virtual consult

or Book Online to receive your prescription of Wegovy or other Semaglutide or Trizepatide for weight loss.

  • Virtual Consult with MD & Nutritionist $450
  • 3 Month Supply of the best compounded semaglutide injection  $750 ( Special Pricing) 
  • Follow Ups $250
  • Lose 10 – 20% of body fat safely and effectively
Dr. David Nazarian

List of GLP-1 Medications & Prices

 
  • Wegovy (semaglutide) – $1,349.02
  • Saxenda (liraglutide) – $1,349.02
  • Ozempic (semaglutide) – $935.77
  • Rybelsus (semaglutide) – $935.77
  • Byetta (exenatide) – $940
  • Mounjaro (tirzepatide) – $1,023.04
  • Victoza (liraglutide) – $744.54
  • Trulicity (dulaglutide) – $930.88
  • Bydureon BCise (exenatide) – $855

GLP-1 Approved For Weight Loss

Wegovy

Wegovy is an FDA-approved medication for chronic weight management in adults. In 2021, Wegovy received regulatory approval for long-term obesity treatment based on strong clinical trial efficacy and safety data.

In a 2021 research review, the efficacy of taking 2.4 mg of Wegovy weekly in weight reduction was highlighted across multiple studies, proving more effective than a placebo [3].

In separate studies involving 803 and 1,961 obese individuals, those on a 2.4 mg weekly dosage of Wegovy experienced notable reductions in body weight by 7.9% and 14.9%, respectively. Moreover, they showed improvements in waist circumference, HbA1c levels, blood pressure, total cholesterol, and triglycerides [4,5].

In a 2022 study involving 338 participants, Wegovy (semaglutide) was compared with Saxenda (liraglutide) alongside diet and exercise modifications. Over 68 weeks, Wegovy users exhibited significantly greater weight loss, attributed to reduced cravings and hunger leading to decreased food intake [6].

Compared to the placebo group following the same diet and exercise regimen, Wegovy users either prevented weight gain or exhibited more significant weight loss.

However, it’s crucial to note that the researchers of these studies received funding from Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Wegovy, raising potential concerns about bias and conflicts of interest.

Saxenda

Saxenda is an injectable GLP-1 agonist used for weight management in adults and children over 12 with obesity. It is taken daily in conjunction with diet and exercise changes. Saxenda was approved by the FDA for chronic weight management in adults in 2014, also gaining pediatric approval in 2020 based on clinical trial evidence.

In a 2021 study with 169 individuals with obesity, 62.1% experienced a minimum 5% body weight reduction within 6 months using liraglutide. Moreover, about 17.2% of those on liraglutide achieved a significant 10% reduction in body weight [7].

Another 2021 study involving 277 participants revealed that a daily 3 mg dosage of liraglutide led to an average weight loss of 9 pounds (4.1 kilograms) after 7 months, equivalent to about 4.2% of their initial body weight [8].

It’s important to note that the latter study was funded by Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Saxenda.

While Saxenda isn’t approved for treating type 2 diabetes, some research suggests it may aid in managing blood sugar levels [9].

Ozempic

Ozempic (semaglutide) is an injectable medication approved to enhance blood sugar control in adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Despite being the same medication as Wegovy, Ozempic is offered in a lower dosage and is not specifically intended for weight loss purposes.

In a 2018 study involving individuals with type 2 diabetes, both high (1 mg weekly) and low (0.5 mg weekly) doses of Ozempic demonstrated greater efficacy compared to Trulicity (dulaglutide), another GLP-1 agonist. These doses effectively improved blood sugar control and led to weight reduction [10].

Similarly, a 2019 study with 577 participants diagnosed with type 2 diabetes compared the effects of Ozempic (1 mg per week) and Victoza (liraglutide), a daily-administered GLP-1 agonist, over 30 weeks. Notably, Ozempic not only proved more efficient in long-term blood sugar management but also resulted in participants losing more than three times the amount of weight [11].

It’s important to note that Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic, funded both of these studies.

Mounjaro

The FDA recently approved a new GLP-1 agonist medication called Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for adults with type 2 diabetes. This once-weekly injectable drug was designed to help manage blood sugar levels in combination with diet, exercise, and other diabetes treatments. Mounjaro is mainly prescribed for managing blood sugar levels. However, one study suggests that it can facilitate weight loss with proper diet and exercise.

In a 2022 study examining the impact of once-weekly tirzepatide doses (5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg) on individuals with obesity or overweight and at least one weight-related condition, results after 72 weeks showed average weight reductions of 15%, 19.5%, and 20.9% for the respective dosage groups [12].

 

Common Side Effects of GLP-1 Agonists

Common Side Effects of GLP-1 Agonists

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Headache and fatigue
  • Stomach pain
  • Dizziness
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Low blood sugar
  • Mood swings
  • Heartburn 
  • Indigestion
  • GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
  • Bloating
  • Belching or flatulence

Usage and Administration

 
  • Wegovy: It is administered weekly and begins with smaller doses (ranging from 0.25 mg to 1.7 mg) for the initial 16 weeks. If well-tolerated, individuals may proceed to a maintenance dose of 2.4 mg weekly, continuing as long as it aids in weight loss.
  • Saxenda: It is recommended at a daily dosage of 3 mg. Starting at 0.6 mg per day, the dosage gradually increases weekly until it reaches the recommended 3 mg daily.
  • Ozempic: It is typically administered once a week. Initially, it’s advised to begin with a dose of 0.25 mg per week, advancing to 0.5 mg after 4 weeks. With doctor approval, the weekly dosage can be further adjusted, reaching up to 1 mg or 2 mg per week.
  • Mounjaro: The recommended starting dose is 2.5 mg per week, increasing to 5 mg after 4 weeks. If necessary, the dose can be raised in 2.5 mg increments every 4 weeks, up to a maximum of 15 mg per week, as directed.

Who should not take GLP-1 agonists?

 
  • Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN-2), as GLP-1 drugs may increase this rare cancer risk.
  • Pregnant or actively trying to become pregnant women should avoid, as weight loss during pregnancy can risk fetal health. There is limited safety data.
  • Patients under 18 years old unless explicitly prescribed Saxenda for pediatric obesity treatment. 
  • Other GLP-1s safety/efficacy are not established yet in youth.
  • Those with a personal or family history of thyroid C-cell tumors.
  • People with severe kidney disease, end-stage renal disease (ESRD), or on dialysis are given a lack of data in these groups.

GLP-1 Agonist FAQs

1. How long does it take to see weight loss results?

Most patients notice some appetite and eating habit changes within a few weeks. Early weight loss of around 5% may occur in the first 3 months. Maximum results take upwards of 9-12 months for full effects on body weight.

2. Do I still have to diet and exercise?

Yes, lifestyle modifications are critical for success! GLP-1 drugs enhance your body’s natural appetite signals, but dietary changes and increased activity maximize weight loss outcomes.

3. What are the costs/coverage?

Costs range from $1000-1500 monthly without insurance. Some plans do cover, often with prior authorization needed. Manufacturer savings cards can provide co-pay assistance for those with coverage.

4. How long can I stay on the medication?

GLP-1 drugs are approved for chronic long-term treatment, not just short-term use. Maintaining weight loss requires prolonged use in most patients for 1-2 years or potentially longer under medical supervision.

5. What if I’m taking other medications?

Certain interactions may exist, especially with diabetes medications, so your provider must review your full drug regimen before starting.

6. When would GLP-1 treatment stop being effective?

If you develop persistent, severe side effects or fail to respond with at least 5% weight loss in 3-6 months, your prescriber may reassess suitability and explore alternative therapies or interventions.

 

GLP-1 Agonist for Weight Loss Near Me

Weight Loss Clinic LA offers the best GLP-1 Agonist near me in Beverly Hills but can also come to your home or office throughout the Los Angeles area. We serve patients near Beverly Hills, Bel Air, West Hollywood, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, Culver City, Hollywood, Venice, Marina del Rey, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Downtown Los Angeles, Encino, Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, Calabasas, Burbank, Glendale, Hidden Hills, Agoura Hills, Northridge, North Hollywood, Topanga, Canoga Park, Reseda, Valley Glen, Chatsworth, West Hills, Winnetka, Universal City, Silverlake, Echo Park, and many more.

References:

  1. Müller TD, Finan B, Bloom SR, et al. Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1). Mol Metab. 2019;30:72-130. doi:10.1016/j.molmet.2019.09.010
  2. Moore, P.W., Malone, K., VanValkenburg, D. et al. GLP-1 Agonists for Weight Loss: Pharmacology and Clinical Implications. Adv Ther 40, 723–742 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12325-022-02394-w
  3. Singh G, Krauthamer M, Bjalme-Evans M. Wegovy (semaglutide): a new weight loss drug for chronic weight management. J Investig Med. 2022;70(1):5-13. doi:10.1136/jim-2021-001952
  4. Rubino D, Abrahamsson N, Davies M, et al. Effect of Continued Weekly Subcutaneous Semaglutide vs Placebo on Weight Loss Maintenance in Adults With Overweight or Obesity: The STEP 4 Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. 2021;325(14):1414-1425. doi:10.1001/jama.2021.3224
  5. Wilding J, Batterham RL, Calanna S, et al. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine. 2021;384(11):989-1002. doi:https://doi.org/10.1056/nejmoa2032183
  6. Rubino DM, Greenway FL, Khalid U, et al. Effect of Weekly Subcutaneous Semaglutide vs Daily Liraglutide on Body Weight in Adults With Overweight or Obesity Without Diabetes: The STEP 8 Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. 2022;327(2):138-150. doi:10.1001/jama.2021.23619
  7. Park JS, Kwon J, Choi HJ, Lee C. Clinical effectiveness of liraglutide on weight loss in South Koreans: First real-world retrospective data on Saxenda in Asia. Medicine (Baltimore). 2021;100(2):e23780. doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000023780
  8. Haase CL, Serratore Achenbach MG, Lucrezi G, Jeswani N, Maurer S, Egermann U. Use of Liraglutide 3.0 mg for Weight Management in a Real-World Setting in Switzerland. Obes Facts. 2021;14(5):568-576. doi:10.1159/000518325
  9. Mehta A, Marso SP, Neeland IJ. Liraglutide for weight management: a critical review of the evidence. Obes Sci Pract. 2017;3(1):3-14. doi:10.1002/osp4.84
  10. Pratley RE, Aroda VR, Ildiko Lingvay, et al. Semaglutide versus dulaglutide once weekly in patients with type 2 diabetes (SUSTAIN 7): a randomised, open-label, phase 3b trial. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology. 2018;6(4):275-286. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/s2213-8587(18)30024-x
  11. Capehorn MS, Catarig AM, Furberg JK, Janez A, Price HC, Tadayon S, Vergès B, Marre M. Efficacy and safety of once-weekly semaglutide 1.0mg vs once-daily liraglutide 1.2mg as add-on to 1-3 oral antidiabetic drugs in subjects with type 2 diabetes (SUSTAIN 10). Diabetes Metab. 2020 Apr;46(2):100-109. doi: 10.1016/j.diabet.2019.101117. Epub 2019 Sep 17. PMID: 31539622.
  12. Jastreboff AM, Aronne LJ, Ahmad NN, Wharton S, Connery L, Alves B, Kiyosue A, Zhang S, Liu B, Bunck MC, Stefanski A; SURMOUNT-1 Investigators. Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2022 Jul 21;387(3):205-216. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2206038. Epub 2022 Jun 4. PMID: 35658024.

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