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The Complete Guide To Injections For Weight Loss
Weight loss injections have transformed obesity treatment and paved a new path toward a healthier lifestyle. What started as a medical aid for managing type 2 diabetes has now opened doors for many people who are struggling with losing and maintaining their weight. These injections for weight loss, backed by scientific research, offer new hope for effective weight management.
Learn about the different weight loss injections available, how they work, and what you can expect during and after treatment. If you’re curious about how these injections can fit into your weight loss plan, contact Boston Medical Group. We can explore how injections for weight loss can contribute to your journey toward a healthier lifestyle.
How Do Weight Loss Injections Work? The Science Behind Them
Weight loss injections are now a more accessible option for people struggling with their weight to manage their body mass index, appetite, and thoughts about food. Drugs like semaglutide and liraglutide reduce feelings of hunger, helping you maintain a healthier weight.
- Table Of Contents
- How Do Weight Loss Injections Work? The Science Behind Them
- The Most Common Weight Loss Drugs Out There
- Benefits of Weight Loss Shots
- How an Average Weight Loss Injection Program Works
- A Weight Loss Journey Includes Diet and Physical Activity
- Best Candidates for Weight Loss Medication
- Contact Boston Medical Group for a Free Weight Loss Injection Consultation
The Role of GLP-1 Receptor in the Body and Relationship with Insulin Production
The GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor regulates your body’s metabolism. Weight loss drugs typically target this receptor to help control hunger and blood sugar levels by managing the release of GLP-1.
GLP-1 is a hormone made in the small intestine when you eat. It’s found in various parts of the body, including the pancreas, heart, stomach, and brain. When GLP-1 latches onto its receptor, it triggers a cascade of biological responses that help control various functions, including:
Boosting insulin production. A primary function of the GLP-1 receptor is to signal to the pancreas to release more insulin, but only when our blood sugar is high. This is beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes, who often have trouble making enough insulin or using it properly. Increasing insulin production with GLP-1 helps lower blood sugar levels, a key part of managing diabetes.
Reducing glucagon and controlling appetite. Besides helping with insulin, the GLP-1 receptor also dials down the release of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels. This is another way it helps keep blood sugar under control.
GLP-1 is also responsible for how hungry you feel. It works on the brain to make you feel full, slowing down how fast your stomach empties after eating. This helps you eat less and smooths out blood sugar spikes after meals.
Promotes weight loss. Because it reduces appetite and calorie intake, activating the GLP-1 receptor can lead to weight loss. This has led to the creation of GLP-1 receptor agonists – drugs that act like GLP-1. These are helpful for people who need to lose weight, whether or not they have diabetes.
The Most Common Weight Loss Drugs Out There
When exploring medication-assisted weight loss, familiarize yourself with the available pharmaceutical treatments, how they function, and possible side effects. Frequently prescribed weight loss medications include:
Semaglutide
Originally developed for diabetes management, semaglutide is a prescription injection that works by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which is naturally produced in the body.
In diabetes treatment, semaglutide helps regulate blood sugar levels. It does this by stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin when blood sugar levels are high. Additionally, it slows down digestion, preventing spikes in blood sugar after meals.
For weight loss, the effectiveness of semaglutide is linked to its ability to reduce appetite. It acts on receptors in the brain that control hunger and helps people feel fuller for longer, reducing overall calorie intake. This appetite-suppressing effect, combined with its impact on slowing gastric emptying, makes it a powerful tool for weight management.
Semaglutide is typically administered via subcutaneous injection in the abdomen or upper arm and is effective in lowering blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes and aiding in weight loss.
A 2021 double-blind study found that participants who took a 2.4 mg injection of semaglutide once weekly in addition to lifestyle changes experienced a 14.9% reduction in body weight. This was compared to just 2.4% in the placebo group.
Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide is a relatively new diabetes management and weight loss drug. It’s unique because it combines the actions of two different hormones: GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). This dual-action approach differentiates tirzepatide from other diabetes and weight loss medications.
Tirzepatide targets areas in the brain that regulate appetite and food intake for weight loss. By mimicking GLP-1, it reduces hunger and increases feelings of fullness, decreasing calorie consumption. The GIP component enhances this effect. Like GLP-1 agonists, tirzepatide helps slow gastric emptying, which contributes to a prolonged feeling of fullness after meals and helps control blood sugar spikes.
The weight loss effects of tirzepatide are promising. Clinical trials have shown that it can substantially reduce weight, especially when combined with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise.
A 2023 clinical trial demonstrated that participants on tirzepatide lose an average of 20.9% of their body weight. They were also able to lose an additional 5.5% during the maintenance phase, while those who switched to the placebo regained 14% of the weight.
Liraglutide
Liraglutide is a medication that has gained attention for its effectiveness in aiding weight loss. Classified as a GLP-1 receptor agonist, it works by emulating the GLP-1 hormone, which plays a role in appetite regulation. Liraglutide interacts with the brain, making you feel fuller after eating and reducing the urge to eat. This leads to a lower overall calorie intake, helping you to lose weight.
Liraglutide also has an impact on gastric emptying rate. It slows down this process and extends satiety after meals, helping curb your appetite. This slower digestion rate assists in controlling hunger and provides a more gradual and sustained energy release from foods.
Liraglutide is typically administered through injections and has been proven effective in promoting significant weight loss. A 2017 review of stage III clinical trials found that participants taking liraglutide consistently lost 4-6 kg (8.8-13.2 lbs.), with a large portion of patients experiencing 10% weight loss compared with the placebo group.
However, in a small percentage of people, liraglutide has been associated with gallbladder-related issues due to slowing down the rate at which the gallbladder empties.
Retatrutide
Retatrutide is an experimental drug that’s making strides in obesity treatment. It’s unique because it acts as a triple hormone receptor agonist, targeting GLP-1, GIP, and GCGR receptors, making it potentially more effective than similar agonists.
Retatrutide simultaneously activates these three receptors to help with weight loss. GLP-1 and GIP receptors are involved in controlling blood sugar and appetite, while GCGR receptors are linked to glucose regulation and metabolic processes. By targeting all three, retatrutide can reduce appetite, improve the body’s ability to manage glucose, and increase energy output.
This drug has shown promising results, with phase II clinical trials showing a significant mean weight reduction of over 24.2% in obese adults after taking 12 mg of retatrutide.
While detailed data from clinical trials are still forthcoming, there may be common effects seen with other GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, and potential changes in appetite when using retatrutide. However, the unique triple receptor action of retatrutide may also present a different side effect profile, which will become clearer as more research and trial data become available.
Oral Semaglutide
Oral semaglutide received FDA approval in 2019 and represents a groundbreaking development in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, marking a significant shift from the traditional injectable form of this medication. As the first GLP-1 receptor agonist available in pill form, it offers a more convenient option for those who are hesitant about injections.
Like injectable semaglutide, the medication works by imitating the GLP-1 hormone. Oral semaglutide increases insulin production when blood sugar levels are high and reduces the amount of sugar released by the liver. It slows down digestion, which helps in preventing rapid spikes in blood sugar after meals.
One of the key benefits of oral semaglutide is its ease of use, which can improve treatment adherence. Taking a pill is often more appealing and less intimidating than administering an injection. Learn more about how they fare vs weight loss injections here.
Benefits of Weight Loss Shots
Injections for weight loss, particularly those involving GLP-1 receptor agonists like liraglutide or semaglutide, offer several benefits for individuals looking to lose weight. Some key advantages include:
Effective weight loss. These injections have been proven to help users achieve significant weight loss, especially when combined with lifestyle changes like a calorie-deficit diet and moderate exercise.
Appetite suppression. Weight loss shots work by reducing appetite, which helps in lowering calorie intake. This is achieved through their action on hunger-regulating pathways in the brain.
Improved blood sugar control. Around 53% of obese people also have type 2 diabetes. Weight loss shots can also help manage blood sugar levels, providing a dual benefit of weight loss and better glycemic control.
Reduced risk of developing obesity-related conditions. A BMI over 30 is negatively associated with numerous health conditions. By aiding in weight loss, weight loss shots can decrease the risk of conditions associated with obesity, such as heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
Convenience. As an injection typically administered once a week, they offer a convenient option for individuals who struggle with daily medication regimens. Oral weight loss drugs, like semaglutide, offer an even more convenient option, allowing you to take the drug from the comfort of your own home.
Long-term weight management. Research suggests that weight loss achieved with GLP-1 receptor agonists can be maintained over the long term, especially when coupled with ongoing lifestyle changes.
Improved metabolic health. Weight loss shots can improve various metabolic markers, including cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and insulin sensitivity.
Enhanced psychological well-being. Weight loss and improved metabolic health can contribute to better overall psychological well-being, including enhanced self-esteem and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Non-stimulant. Unlike some weight loss medications like phentermine and diethylpropion, GLP-1 receptor agonists are not stimulants, which makes them a suitable option for individuals who may not tolerate stimulant-based medications.
Potential cardiovascular benefits. Recent studies suggest that GLP-1 receptor agonists may offer cardiovascular benefits, including helping the heart muscle use glucose more effectively, reducing harmful oxidative stress, and preventing heart cells from dying prematurely.
How an Average Weight Loss Injection Program Works
Injections for weight loss are more than just a quick fix; they’re the starting point for a lasting health journey. By helping you shed pounds rapidly over a few weeks, they pave the way for you to establish positive habits in eating and exercising.
Medicated weight loss programs work by providing you with once-weekly injections, starting with a low dose and gradually increasing the amount until you reach your weight loss goals.
Dose
Most weight loss injection programs provide medications gradually in stages. This ensures that your body reacts well to the drugs, helps your physician find the right dosage, and promotes a safer, more effective approach to weight management, making it more likely that you’ll keep the weight off after treatment.
The four phases of a weight loss program include:
Initiation. The typical weight loss program using semaglutide injections begins with the Initiation Phase. This phase prepares your body to respond effectively to the treatment. The primary goal is to allow your body to acclimate to the medication, minimizing potential side effects such as nausea or vomiting. This phase is carefully structured over an 8-week period.
In the first 4 weeks, you start with the lowest possible dose of 0.2 mg per week. This conservative approach is key to monitoring how your body reacts to the medication. Following this, the dose is slightly increased to 0.5 mg per week for the next 4 weeks.
While some individuals may start experiencing weight loss even in this initial phase, the primary objective is to prepare the body for the next stages.
Therapeutic Phase. The Therapeutic Phase spans a duration of 2 months and is where the majority of weight loss typically occurs. During this phase, your dosage is adjusted to optimize the weight loss process, and over 90% of patients report significant weight loss. This phase sets the foundation for transitioning into long-term maintenance once you’ve reached your weight loss goals.
Maintenance Phase. Once you have successfully lost the weight during the Therapeutic Phase, you enter the Maintenance Phase. This phase is designed to help you maintain your new, healthier weight and manage food cravings more effectively.
The standard maintenance dose ranges between 1 mg and 1.5 mg per week. This dosage helps sustain the weight loss benefits you achieved in the previous phases. Most individuals continue with this standard dose, with a monthly recurring charge ensuring a continuous supply of the medication.
You can choose to discontinue the program at any point. However, your desire to overeat may reoccur several weeks after you stop getting the injections.
Escalation Phase. For some patients, the weight loss achieved in the Therapeutic Phase may not be sufficient. In these cases, your doctor or health care provider may prescribe an Escalation Phase. This phase involves administering a higher dose of the medication, ranging from 2 mg to 2.5 mg per week, for a short-term duration of 4 weeks.
The purpose is to induce additional weight loss before transitioning back to the Maintenance Phase. At the end of the Escalation Phase, your doctor or health care provider will assess your progress and determine the appropriate maintenance dose.
This could be the escalated dose of 2-2.5 mg per week or a reduction to the standard maintenance dose of 1-1.5 mg per week.
Cost
The cost of a weight loss injection program can vary based on the type of medication and the specific program you choose. If you opt for brand-name drugs like Ozempic or Wegovy, the price range can be quite steep. These injections for weight loss can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000 per month. The variation in cost largely depends on the dosage required for your specific situation. Higher doses typically mean a higher cost overall.
However, programs that don’t use brand-name drugs offer a more budget-friendly alternative, with monthly costs ranging from $399 to $499. This cost variation also depends on the strength of the medication needed for your weight loss journey.
The costs associated with the injections for weight loss are not just for the medication itself. They include a comprehensive program that includes medical oversight, support, and potentially other resources to aid in weight loss. This approach ensures that the program is effective in helping you lose weight while focusing on your overall health and well-being.
Some weight loss injection programs offer introductory rates or bundled packages. For instance, a complete 12-week program might be available for a total cost of $999. This package often includes the medication and may also cover additional services like telemedicine consultations, which are increasingly popular for their convenience.
Remember, these programs are a long-term commitment to your health, and you should evaluate the costs in the context of their potential to provide sustainable, healthy weight loss.
A Weight Loss Journey Includes Diet and Physical Activity
Weight loss injections work by regulating your appetite and insulin levels. However, you can increase their effectiveness and improve the success of your program when you combine the drugs with a healthy diet and physical activity.
As part of your weight loss injection program, your physician may suggest collaborating with a dietician or nutritionist. They may also have you partner with a personal trainer or physical therapist to develop a holistic plan that includes a modified diet and regular workout regimen.
Your workout program should include moderate-intensity exercise 3-5 times per week, including cardio, strength, and flexibility training. This may include brisk walking, swimming, water aerobics, resistance band exercises, body weight exercises, or Pilates.
Common nutritional plans for people undergoing a weight loss injection program include:
Calorie-controlled diet. Creating a calorie deficit doesn’t necessarily mean you need to eat very little; rather, it involves choosing foods that are less calorie-dense and more filling, like non-starchy vegetables, fruits with a high water and fiber content, and lean protein.
Low-carb and low-sugar diet. Refined carbs and sugars can cause spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels, increasing hunger and fat storage. Your nutritionist may advise you to plan meals focusing on complex carbohydrates, like vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
High-protein diet. Diets rich in protein can help in weight loss efforts. Protein can help satiate hunger more effectively than carbohydrates or fats, which can help reduce overall calorie intake by keeping you fuller for longer. Good protein sources include lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes, and plant-based alternatives.
Fiber-rich foods. Foods high in dietary fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, are often recommended. Fiber helps digestion, improves gut health, and keeps you feeling full, reducing the tendency to overeat.
Healthy fats. Including healthy fats in your diet is important. Fats from sources like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil can be beneficial for heart health and also aid in keeping you satiated.
Portion control. Learning to control portion sizes can be a key aspect of the diet. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help manage hunger and prevent overeating.
Limiting processed foods. Minimize your intake of processed and fast foods, which are often high in calories, fats, sodium, and sugars. These foods can undermine weight loss efforts and are not conducive to overall health.
Some benefits of incorporating a calorie-controlled diet and moderate exercise routine into your program include:
Sustainable weight loss. One of the biggest challenges in any weight loss journey is not just losing weight but keeping it off for a long period of time. While weight loss shots can help you lose weight quickly, diet and exercise are key to creating a sustainable lifestyle change. Relying solely on injections without addressing eating habits and physical activity levels often leads to temporary results.
Prevention of weight-related health issues. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help prevent or manage many health issues related to obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Psychological and emotional well-being. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can improve mental health. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, while a nutritious diet can positively impact your overall mental and emotional well-being.
Personal empowerment and control. Engaging in a diet and exercise regimen empowers you to take control of your weight loss journey. It instills a sense of personal responsibility and achievement, which can be highly motivating. Knowing that you are actively contributing to your weight loss and health can enhance your commitment to the program and overall self-esteem.
Best Candidates for Weight Loss Medication
Injections for weight loss are not a one-size-fits-all solution and are not suitable for everyone. The best candidates for weight loss medication are individuals who have not achieved their desired weight loss goals through diet and exercise alone and meet specific medical criteria. Typically, these include:
People with a BMI of 30 or higher. Weight loss injections are often recommended for those who are classified as obese, which is defined in the U.S. as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher.
Those with a BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related health issues. Individuals who are overweight (with a BMI of 27 or above) and have weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol may also benefit from injections for weight loss.
Patients who have struggled with weight loss in the past. Ideally, candidates should have made sincere efforts to lose weight through lifestyle changes in the past but have not seen long-term results. This includes people who have repeatedly gained back weight after losing it.
Individuals committed to lifestyle changes. Injections for weight loss are most effective when combined with ongoing lifestyle modifications. To be eligible for injections, you must be willing to adhere to a healthy diet and regular exercise regimen while taking the medication.
Those without contraindicating health conditions. If you have certain health conditions, like uncontrolled hypertension, severe liver disease, or hyperthyroidism, or take specific medications such as Warfarin, you may not be able to use weight loss drugs. Always disclose your full medical history with your healthcare provider before starting any weight loss medication.
Pregnant or breastfeeding patients. Injections for weight loss can potentially harm a fetus or a nursing infant and are generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Contact Boston Medical Group for a Free Weight Loss Injection Consultation
Start on your transformative health journey with Boston Medical Group’s SlimFitRx™ program, designed to support you in achieving your weight loss goals with a blend of medication and lifestyle changes. Using prescription drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide, alongside diet and exercise, this program offers a scientifically backed approach to weight management.
Whether you’re dealing with obesity, weight-related health risks, or striving for a healthier weight, SlimFitRx™ can provide the additional support you need. Take the first step toward a healthier you and schedule a free consultation with Boston Medical Group today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which weight loss shot is best?
The “best” injection for weight loss varies, depending on your health needs and medical history. Popular options include GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide, known for their appetite regulation and glucose control. Always consult a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable option, ensuring it matches your health profile and weight loss goals.
Can an injection reduce belly fat?
Injections for weight loss, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide can help you reduce belly fat. These drugs are primarily designed to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity by mimicking hormones that target areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation, leading to reduced hunger and calorie intake.
They can promote weight loss, including reducing visceral fat around the abdomen. While not directly targeting fat cells through lipolysis like some injectable treatments, they can indirectly reduce belly fat due to their impact on appetite and glucose metabolism.
For instance, patients using tirzepatide as part of Boston Medical Group’s SlimFitRX™ program lost around 22% of their initial body mass. This could help some lose 20 pounds or more, depending on their weight.
Do I lose my appetite or taste for food?
When you’re on medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide, you may find that your appetite decreases. These drugs are designed to interact with the body's natural hunger signals, making you feel satisfied more quickly and for longer periods, which naturally leads to a reduction in food intake.
You may notice a subtle shift in taste preferences or a decreased interest in foods you previously enjoyed. This can be beneficial for managing your weight, as it helps control calorie consumption.
The impact on appetite and taste varies from person to person, and not everyone will experience these changes. If you do notice an effect on your appetite, discuss it with your healthcare provider to ensure your nutritional needs are met and adjust any dietary plans accordingly.
What is the Ozempic Face?
Ozempic Face refers to facial changes, such as a more gaunt appearance, that can occur from rapid weight loss associated with weight loss injection medications. This effect is due to the loss of facial fat, which can lead to a sunken look and more pronounced facial lines.
The phenomenon is not permanent and depends on individual factors such as skin elasticity, which can vary with age. Younger patients might see their skin elasticity return over time, allowing the skin to adjust to their new facial contours more easily. Older patients might experience more lasting changes due to naturally decreasing skin elasticity with age.
If you’re concerned about your appearance after rapid weight loss, consult a healthcare provider for strategies to manage or mitigate these effects. This can include a more gradual weight loss plan or treatments to improve skin elasticity and volume.
How long does 1 weight loss injection last?
For semaglutide, each injection is intended to last one week. The medication is designed as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection, with the maintenance dose being 2.4 mg. The process to reach this maintenance dose involves gradually increasing the dose over 17 weeks to help reduce side effects.
This dosing regimen is part of a long-term treatment plan for obesity and requires continuous weekly injections to maintain its effectiveness in weight management.
What is the 1 weekly weight loss injection?
The 1 weekly weight loss injection contains the active ingredient semaglutide. Semaglutide is FDA-approved for long-term weight management in adults who are either obese or overweight with at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.
It is also approved for use in adolescents 12 years and older with an initial BMI at or above the 95th percentile for age and sex. It is administered through subcutaneous injections rather than intravenous injection or intramuscular injection.
Semaglutide works by mimicking a hormone that targets brain receptors involved in appetite, reducing hunger and leading to lower calorie intake. The maintenance dose of semaglutide is 2.4 mg, administered once weekly as a subcutaneous injection.
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