Ever wondered how people get prescribed injectable weight loss meds like Wegovy®? These injections can really change your weight loss game. But, it’s important to know about the risks too.
For example, Wegovy® (semaglutide) 2.4 mg helps beat heart issues like heart attacks and strokes if you dress down your calories and move more. It’s for adults with heart problems, who are also overweight or obese1. Are you looking into getting these injections the right way?
Wegovy® is out to help. Anyone 12 or older who struggles with extra weight or obesity can use it1. But mixing it with similar meds is a no-go1. Also, keep in mind that it can cost around $1,349.02 per month. Insurance might help cover this though2.
Chat with your doctor about other meds you take and possible risks like pancreatitis. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or if thyroid cancer runs in your family, Wegovy® isn’t for you1. This med is a close match to a hormone in your body and can work wonders with the right precautions2. And don’t forget, with the WeGoTogether savings, it could be more affordable, especially with insurance2.
Key Takeaways
- Wegovy® is meant to be used with lower calories and more exercise to fight off weight and heart issues1.
- It’s the most prescribed chronic weight loss med in the U.S.2.
- Plan on about $1,349.02 for a month’s supply, but savings are possible2.
- Don’t combine Wegovy® with similar meds1.
- You need to check with your doctor about your other meds and any health risks before you use Wegovy®1.
Understanding Injectable Weight Loss Medications
Injectable weight loss medications are now key in fighting obesity and related health problems. For example, GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy, Saxenda, and Ozempic help by acting like natural hormones. They work to control your hunger and desire to eat, making weight loss achievable.
What are Injectable Weight Loss Medications?
These drugs mimic natural gut hormones to reduce appetite and increase feeling full. They are FDA approved for long-term use combined with lifestyle changes. This makes them important in the fight against obesity and its health risks, including those related to diabetes.
Popular Injectable Weight Loss Medications: Wegovy, Ozempic, Saxenda, and Mounjaro
Wegovy, with semaglutide, has recently shown great results in heart health benefits over five years3. Ozempic, also with semaglutide, is known for aiding in diabetes and weight loss3. Saxenda, containing liraglutide, helps control appetite too. Mounjaro, with tirzepatide, was approved for type 2 diabetes and may offer even more weight loss help3. Finally, drugs like retatrutide, acting on three gut hormones, helped obese patients lose around 24% of their body weight in 48 weeks3.
Benefits and Risks of Injectable Weight Loss Medications
Weight loss shots offer many benefits. They reduce appetite, control hunger, and support lasting weight loss alongside healthy habits. They can also help you think less about food and decrease binge eating3. Compared to just lifestyle changes, these shots lead to more weight loss, sometimes up to 12% extra4. Losing 5% to 10% of your body weight brings important health improvements like lower blood pressure and blood sugar4.
Yet, these medications might cause side effects. Common ones include nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. More serious effects like pancreatitis and gallbladder problems can occur too. Some drugs can cause vision changes, low blood sugar in diabetes patients, and can even lead to anxiety and insomnia4. Wegovy and Ozempic, both containing semaglutide, might cause vomiting, stomach pain, headaches, and tiredness4. Also, they are not for people with certain thyroid cancers due to a possible increased tumor risk.
How to Get a Prescription for Injectable Weight Loss
Want to get a prescription for weight loss shots like Wegovy® or Saxenda®? First, talk to a healthcare expert. Knowing the steps and cost factors makes it easier to get these shots.
Steps to Get a Prescription for Weight Loss Shots
First, you’ll meet with a healthcare provider. They will look at your health history, goals to lose weight, and how you live. You should also talk about the medicine’s side effects and if it’s a good fit for how you plan to manage your weight. You’ll also share what you eat and how you exercise.
Consulting with a Healthcare Professional
Seeing a doctor, physician assistant, or nurse is key to getting a shot prescribed. They’ll see if you need the medicine and if it’s right for you. They might send you to a dietitian or another expert to help you lose weight safely. This talk is very important, especially if you’re thinking of using Saxenda®. This medicine has some serious side effects, like thyroid tumors and pancreatitis5.
Using Telehealth Services for Prescription Weight Loss
Telehealth is a simple way to get injections. Places like PlushCare let you talk to weight experts online. Noom Med and Calibrate mix Wegovy® with personal help, making losing weight easier. You’ll also save money if your insurance works with these services.
Insurance Coverage and Cost Considerations
Weight loss shots, like Wegovy®, can cost a lot, around $1,349.02 a month. Getting insurance to help pay isn’t always easy. You and your health expert might need to work with the insurance company for support. There are also ways to save money with the help of the drug’s makers and other programs.
Always chat with your healthcare expert about the best choices for your wallet and insurance.
Conclusion
Prescription weight loss injections are a new, powerful way to fight obesity. Drugs like Wegovy® and Saxenda® are leading this battle. They show good results in weight loss when people also change their lifestyle. A drug called semaglutide can reduce weight by 15% in about 14 months. Another drug, tirzepatide, can cut more than 20% in about 15 months6. Some other helpful medicines, like orlistat and phentermine/topiramate, also help lose weight. But they may cause side effects like feeling sick, throwing up, and stomach problems6.
Before trying these weight loss shots, know there might be serious side effects. Talk to your doctor about the risks of kidney, thyroid, and gallbladder problems, especially with certain drugs6. Also, it might be harder than it seems to lose a lot of weight with these medicines. There’s a big drop in how many people can lose enough weight to make a real difference7. Think about the cost, too. These treatments can be pricey, often over $1,000 each month.
The battle against obesity is hard, but drugs like Wegovy® and Saxenda® can make a real difference. They are most effective when used with a healthy diet and exercise. Remember, these drugs are not a quick fix. They are not for everyone either. Only about one in four people, including doctors, choose to use these drugs for obesity, showing they are not widely favored8. So, it’s very important to know all about the benefits and risks of these drugs. This way, you can decide what’s best for your weight loss journey.
FAQ
What are Injectable Weight Loss Medications?
Injectable weight loss medications are drugs you get through a shot. They help control how much you eat and lose weight. Some names you might hear are Wegovy®, Ozempic®, Saxenda®, and Mounjaro®.
How do I get prescribed weight loss injections?
You’ll need to see a healthcare pro to get weight loss shots. They’ll look at your weight past, goals, lifestyle, and health. This is to see if these meds are right for you.
Can I get weight loss injections prescribed online?
Getting weight loss shots online is possible through special services. Places like PlushCare and programs including Noom Med and Calibrate allow you to talk with a specialist online. If they think it’s a good match, they can give you a prescription.
What are the common side effects of injectable weight loss medications?
These shots can cause stomach issues, allergies, and more serious stuff like pancreatitis or thyroid tumors. Make sure to talk about these risks with your doctor.
What are GLP-1 medications?
GLP-1 meds like Wegovy® and Saxenda® act like natural hormones for appetite control. They help you eat less and lose weight. These meds help with weight management over the long term and are FDA approved.
How much do weight loss injections cost?
Weight loss shots can be pricey. For instance, Wegovy® can cost over a thousand dollars for a month. Check if your insurance helps out. Also, look into any discount programs from the makers.
Does insurance cover weight loss injections?
Whether insurance helps with shot costs depends on your plan. Working with your healthcare team might help persuade your insurance to cover the shots.
Are injectable weight loss medications safe?
The FDA says these shots are safe with a doc’s check-up. But, they could cause some serious issues and allergies. Talk about these with your doctor before starting.
Who should avoid using weight loss injections?
Don’t use these shots if you or your family have had certain cancers, or if you’re pregnant or nursing. Always check with your doctor to make sure they’re okay for you.
What results can I expect from weight loss injections?
Patients who use shots like Wegovy® can lose a lot of weight when they also change how they live. But, each person’s experience is different. Some might see bigger weight loss than others.
Source Links
- https://www.wegovy.com/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/how-to-get-wegovy
- https://healthmatters.nyp.org/understanding-ozempic-wegovy-and-weight-loss-medications/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/in-depth/weight-loss-drugs/art-20044832
- https://www.saxenda.com/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/weight-loss-medication
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6544176/
- https://www.webmd.com/obesity/features/weight-loss-medication
