GLP-1 receptor agonist medications have transformed the landscape of medical weight loss. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes management, medications like semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) have demonstrated remarkable effectiveness for weight management. At Nurture Wellness & Aesthetics, we take a comprehensive, medically supervised approach to help you achieve sustainable results.
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone naturally produced in your gut after eating. This hormone plays several important roles: it signals your brain to feel full, slows down stomach emptying so you feel satisfied longer, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. GLP-1 medications mimic this natural hormone but last much longer in the body, providing sustained appetite regulation throughout the day.
How They Promote Weight Loss
GLP-1 medications work through multiple mechanisms to support weight loss:
- Appetite reduction: They act on brain receptors that control hunger, significantly reducing appetite and food cravings
- Delayed gastric emptying: Food stays in your stomach longer, keeping you feeling full between meals
- Blood sugar regulation: Stable blood sugar means fewer energy crashes and sugar cravings
- Improved insulin sensitivity: Better metabolic function supports more efficient fat burning
- Reduced food noise: Many patients report that the constant mental chatter about food simply quiets down
Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide
Semaglutide targets only the GLP-1 receptor and has shown average weight loss of up to 15% of body weight in clinical trials. Tirzepatide is a dual agonist that targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, demonstrating even greater results with some patients achieving up to 22.5% weight loss. The newer retatrutide is a triple agonist targeting GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors, showing even greater potential.
Our Approach at Nurture
Our medical weight loss program is far more than just prescribing a medication. We believe in a comprehensive approach that includes thorough initial consultation and baseline lab work, starting with microdoses to minimize side effects, peptide integration for improved body composition, ongoing monitoring and dosage adjustments, and nutritional and lifestyle guidance to support long-term success.
What to Expect During Treatment
Treatment begins with a consultation and required lab work ($80) to ensure these medications are safe and appropriate for you. You'll start with a low dose administered as a weekly subcutaneous injection, preferably at night on an empty stomach. Over 4-12 months, your provider will monitor your progress, adjust dosing, and provide ongoing support.
When you're within 5-10 pounds of your goal weight, we begin gradual weaning with 4-8 week cycling to maintain receptor sensitivity. This supervised approach prevents the rebound weight gain that can occur when medications are stopped abruptly.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects are gastrointestinal: nausea, reduced appetite, and occasional digestive discomfort. These typically improve over time and are minimized by our microdosing approach. Starting low and titrating slowly is key to a comfortable experience.
Is GLP-1 Medication Right for You?
These medications may be appropriate if you have a BMI of 30 or greater, or a BMI of 27+ with weight-related health conditions. They're also beneficial for patients who have struggled with traditional diet and exercise approaches. However, they require commitment to lifestyle changes, regular monitoring, and a willingness to engage in the full program — not just the medication.
Curious about whether GLP-1 medications could support your weight loss goals? Schedule a consultation to discuss your options with our medical team.
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