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Medical Weight Loss
Dr. Mary Kim, a board-certified plastic surgeon, will personally manage the patient’s weight loss journey and assess whether it is the appropriate treatment. She will review patient’s medical history along with weight loss goals, and blood work results and develop a personalized treatment plan for the patient. She will monitor the progress and administer the medication. Many patients reach their target weight and may have skin laxity or residual stubborn areas of fat. Dr. Mary Kim can also offer finishing touches on their transformation with liposuction, facial fillers, tummy tuck, or body contouring surgery such as brachioplasty or thigh lift.
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are medications used to manage type 2 diabetes and, more recently, have garnered attention for their effects on weight loss. They belong to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists and, in the case of tirzepatide, an additional action as a GIP (Gastric Inhibitory Peptide) receptor agonist.
Semaglutide
Classification: Semaglutide is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist.
Brand Names: It is marketed under the brand names Ozempic (for type 2 diabetes) and Wegovy (for weight management).
GLP-1 Receptor Agonist: Semaglutide mimics the action of the natural hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar levels by enhancing insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar), and slowing gastric emptying.
Appetite Regulation: It also affects areas of the brain that regulate appetite and food intake, contributing to weight loss.
Type 2 Diabetes: Helps control blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing glucose production.
Weight Loss: Wegovy, a higher dose of semaglutide, is approved for chronic weight management in addition to diet and exercise.
Form: Semaglutide is administered via subcutaneous injection.
Dosing: Typically injected once a week. The dose may be adjusted based on blood sugar control and tolerance.
Tirzepatide (also known as Mounjaro)
Semaglutide is administered by injection and is typically used as part of a comprehensive weight loss program. The medication is generally well-tolerated but may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation in some individuals.
Overall, semaglutide offers promising options for individuals struggling with obesity or overweight who have not achieved success with diet and exercise alone.
Consultation: The medication requires a prescription and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. A thorough evaluation of the patient’s health, including potential contraindications and interactions with other medications, is essential.
Lifestyle Modifications: The medication is intended to be used in conjunction with lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, to achieve optimal results.
Monitoring: Regular follow-ups are necessary to monitor blood sugar levels, weight, and any side effects.
Note individual results may vary.
Tirzepatide (also known as Mounjaro)
Classification: Tirzepatide is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist.
Brand Name: Mounjaro.
Dual Receptor Agonist: Tirzepatide activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. GLP-1 helps regulate blood sugar and appetite, while GIP has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and potentially contribute to weight loss.
Enhanced Effect: The dual action provides a more comprehensive approach to blood sugar control and weight management.
Type 2 Diabetes: Effective in managing blood glucose levels, often leading to significant improvements in HbA1c (a measure of long-term blood sugar control).
Weight Loss: Clinical trials have shown that tirzepatide can significantly aid in weight loss, often more effectively than some other diabetes medications.
Form: Tirzepatide is administered via subcutaneous injection.
Dosing: Typically injected once a week. The dose is individualized based on patient response and tolerance.
Tirzepatide is administered by injection and are typically used as part of a comprehensive weight loss program. The medication is generally well-tolerated but may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation in some individuals.
Overall, tirzepatide offers promising options for individuals struggling with obesity or overweight who have not achieved success with diet and exercise alone.
Consultation: The medication requires a prescription and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. A thorough evaluation of the patient’s health, including potential contraindications and interactions with other medications, is essential.
Lifestyle Modifications: The medication is intended to be used in conjunction with lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, to achieve optimal results.
Monitoring: Regular follow-ups are necessary to monitor blood sugar levels, weight, and any side effects.
Note individual results may vary.
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