Our Approach to GLP-1 Agonists
Introduction
We know there is a lot of hype around weight loss injections, like GLP-1 agonists, and the impact they can make on overall health and wellness.
We always want to bring the best to Elite, so, after extensive research, we have created a functional weight loss program that we believe is both safe and effective and can provide lasting weight loss and health results.
Our program isn’t just about prescribing medications, but teaching and providing tools for our clients to be successful in losing and keeping their weight off, while reaching their optimal health goals, too! There are a plethora of health benefits from weight loss peptides (outside of weight loss) that will probably shock you like it did, us.
Read more below about common weight loss injection FAQs, additional health benefits, and our overall approach to weight loss peptides.
**Important Disclaimer:
Before reading further, it is important to note that there are two ways to receive weight loss medications:
1. From a traditional/primary care provider through your insurance. This is if you apply and are a candidate for the medication. There is general criteria individuals must meet before they qualify for brand name, standard dose weight loss medications.
2. From providers like us! We use these medications for “off label” indications and individualized micro doses. This method is not FDA approved because we are not using, prescribing, or dosing the medication for the same reasons as above. We are using this medication for health optimization and longevity, through a customized program that includes coaching on diet, lifestyle, and exercise.
Table of Contents
What are GLP-1 Agonists?
GLP-1 (Glucagon-like Peptide-1) agonists, are typically used to treat type 2 diabetes and cases of obesity. In general, they work to mimic the effects of our natural GLP-1 hormones to help promote the feeling of being full and to regulate blood sugar levels after eating, to ultimately assist in weight loss. This is done by stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin, slow down stomach emptying, and reduce appetite.
In addition to the above, GLP-1 agonists help repair damage to our metabolism and repair pathways that are broken and leading to stubborn weight or health issues.
What are the benefits of GLP-1 Agonists?
There are many benefits of GLP-1 agonists (other than just weight loss), the most common are explained below:
- Improved metabolic health: Weight loss medications can reduce blood sugar levels, lower blood pressure, and reduce cholesterol levels. In turn this can reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, strokes, and much more!
- Total body longevity: Optimizing the body’s total health helps to reduce the risk of chronic disease.
- Cellular regeneration: When our body’s cellular processes are working optimally, we are healthier individuals overall.
- Reduced inflammation: Once blood sugar levels are leveled, inflammation within the body decreases.
- Improved body composition & fat burning : When given the right dose and implementing diet and exercise, weight loss injections can reduce body fat percentages and increase muscle mass for an overall healthier body.
- Improved mental health: Many people struggling with weight issues can have depression, anxiety, body dysmorphia, and lack of self confidence. Weight loss medications may play a role in helping people feel more confident in their bodies which can improve mental health.
- Appetite/Craving Suppression: Reduction in unhealthy cravings is beneficial overall
What is Tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide is a dual GLP-1 and GIP agonist peptide. These peptides are natural gastrointestinal hormones found in the GI tract released in response to eating.
Tirzepatide improves glucose control by enhancing insulin secretion and (mostly) suppressing glucagon release, helping to lower blood sugar levels. It promotes weight loss through appetite suppression, slowed gastric emptying, and improved fat metabolism. Additionally, it may help improve cholesterol levels and offer some heart health benefits.
Is GLP-1 the same as Ozempic?
Yes and no. GLP-1 agonists are a class of peptides and Ozempic (Semaglutide) is one brand name that falls under the category of GLP-1 agonists. Semaglutide may be thought of as the “generic” name for the peptide and Ozempic is the brand name. Kind of like how Advil is a brand name drug for the generic drug ibuprofen.
What are all the GLP-1 agonist medications?
There are many GLP-1 agonist medications on the market. Below are the most common, listed by generic name first with brand name in parentheses:
- Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic)
- Tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro)
- Liraglutide (Saxenda)
- Orlistat (Xenical)
Some of these peptides work differently in the body to aid in weight/fat loss. Read below for further explanation:
- Semaglutide and Liraglutide are glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists that suppress appetite and slow down digestion to aid in weight loss.
- Tirzepatide is a dual GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide) that has been shown to have a better effect on blood sugar regulation, appetite suppression, and fat metabolism with less side effects.
- Orlistat is a medication that focuses on blocking fat, to prevent the absorption of dietary fat in the body.
Deciding which is best for you may depend on several factors such as your baseline, goals, medical history, etc. It is best to speak with a medical provider on which option is best suited for you!
The GLP-1 Agonist We Offer:
At Elite, we only provide the highest quality and safest products on the market, especially when it comes to medications. With that being said, after extensive research, we offer compounded Semaglutide and Tirzepatide in titrated, micro/low doses to our clients. Important note: This is not FDA approved because we are not using these medications in standard doses or for standard reasons, but rather for optimizing health, overall. The compounded peptides we use also have additional ingredients such as B12 to help with nausea and glycine to help maintain muscle mass.
Safety is based on the provider’s screening and dosing, not solely on the medication itself. We also feel it is best to offer both options because we see clients as individuals, and decide what medication is best for them.
Additionally, as part of our program, we provide tools and education on crucial foundational changes such as diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits.
Clients can expect individualized treatment plans that consider your current health and weight loss goals. We thoroughly screen to ensure clients are ready for treatment and are set up for success!
Bottom line: At Elite, weight loss is a 360 approach. With our program, we’ve taken the “guess work” out of it for you.
What does it mean to micro dose GLP-1 agonists?
To begin, the term micro dosing can be defined as:
“The action or practice of taking very small amounts of a drug, in order to test or benefit from its physiological action, while minimizing undesirable side effects.” Dr. Tyna Moore.
When someone receives a micro dose of a GLP-1 agonist, they are essentially utilizing a small dose of the medication to help jump start the metabolism and other health changes.
It is important to note that medications at lower, or micro doses, can have a different impact on the body compared to standard or higher doses.
What are the benefits of micro dosing GLP-1 agonists?
Alongside minimal side effects, there are many other benefits from micro dosing GLP-1 agonists, this may include:
- Lowering inflammation
- Healing and repairing metabolism
- Increasing longevity
- Ease of maintaining weight after stopping medication
We especially love micro dosing in our weight loss program because it provides flexibility and customization in how we treat and dose our clients. Each individuals’ needs are different and will change over the course of the program.
Overall, micro dosing is very unique and customizable compared to standard dosing.
How long should you be on weight loss medication?
The length of time someone is on a weight loss medication varies on their baseline health and weight goals. We want to emphasize two points here:
#1: Cycling/rotating on and off weight loss medications. This is beneficial because it keeps them potentized and working optimally.
- Cycling on and off may look like: 3 months on, 1 month off OR 3 weeks on, 1 week off. The most important thing with cycling is during the “off phase”, appetite will return, so prioritizing heavy weight lifting/strength training and healthy balanced meals is key to maintaining.
#2: MOST individuals will be healthier after stopping medications. How? Because their metabolism is repaired (so long as they continue weight lifting and nutritional changes).
How is Tirzepatide different from Semaglutide?
The main difference between Tirzepatide and Semaglutide is that Tirzepatide works on the GIP AND GLP-1 receptors, while Semaglutide works on the GLP-1 receptors.
To break down the difference between GIP receptors and GLP-1 receptors read below:
How GIP receptors work:
- Increases insulin, aka reduced blood sugar levels
- Improves fat metabolism and prevents fat storage
How GLP-1 receptors work:
- Enhances fat metabolism
- Reduces appetite and cravings
- Lowers blood sugar levels
⭐️ In some cases, cycling/rotating between the two may be beneficial for clients and best results.
What are the side effects of GLP-1 agonists?
Thorough screening and appropriate dosing by your provider can limit or eliminate side effects. A majority of these common symptoms can be mitigated by a healthy lifestyle and diet/nutrition, as well.
Mild side effects among them all include:
- Gastrointestinal issues: constipation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, gas, stomach pain/cramping, and general upset stomach
- Skin reactions: swollen, red or irritated skin at the injection site, or pigmentation (patches of darker skin)
- Mental health: signs on depression, increase in anxiety, brain fog, fatigue, headache, and dizziness
Serious side effects are RARE, and if you experience any of the following to call your provider ASAP:
- Kidney issues
- Pancreatitis
- Gallbladder issues
- Thyroid issues
- Bowl obstruction
- Severe and lasting stomach pain/cramping
- Severe mental health such as thoughts of depression
- Blindness (in cases of existing diabetic retinopathy)
*Note: This is just a list of possible side effects. Side effects may vary per person. Always consult with your provider before taking medication, and if you experience unwanted side effects or are concerned about your health contact them ASAP.
What is the safest weight loss agonist?
Safety is based on the thorough screening and proper dosing of the medication and should be individualized for each person. AKA- the provider you see helps determines the safety of the weight loss medication.
Our program at Elite provides total customization for weight loss, therefore we carry both compounded Tirzepatide and Semaglutide for “off label” reasons, because some people may respond better to one medication, have less side effect on another medication, or find best results cycling between the two.
Bottom line, we see clients as individuals and customize their weight loss journey to fit their baseline and goals.
How long does it take to lose weight on a GLP-1 agonist?
You can expect some effect within the first 2-4 weeks. Weight loss during this time is modest. More noticeable weight loss typically starts within 1-3 months of starting compounded Tirzepatide/Semaglutide, when combined with lifestyle and nutritional changes.
Studies have shown (see full study below) health benefits with as little as 5% reduction of total body weight. GLP-1 agonist treatments have been shown on average to produce 20.9% loss of total body weight in approximately 1 year. Long term results are variable, and dependent on the individual.
Healthy weight loss in oder to limit side effects, is 1-2 pounds a week.
What happens after you stop weight loss injections?
Established foundational pieces such as diet, lifestyle, and exercise, are the tools needed to keep weight off after stopping medications.
At Elite, we provide support during this transition through proper weaning and cycling on and off the medication if necessary.
Some research has noted that it is common to have an increase in appetite and changes to blood sugar levels can occur upon stopping. Some people experience weight regain, especially if the foundations of exercise, diet, and lifestyle changes were not implemented.
Overall- not having proper support during this transition is often where people have had frustrations with their weight and regain.
What is "Ozempic Face"?
“Ozempic Face” refers to the effects we sometimes see in patients’ faces after rapid weight loss. GLP-1 agonist medications are non specific and will cause weight loss in all areas of the body, this can include the face. “Ozempic Face” can be characterized with hollow cheeks, sunken eyes, and sagging skin, due to rapid weight loss, or fat loss, from the medication. Though weight loss in the face does not have a negative impact on your health, it can often leave people feeling frustrated, disappointed, or unhappy.
At Elite, we created a program for steady, healthy weight loss that reduces the risks of side effects including “Ozempic Face”.
Weight loss can always result in changes to our appearance, but we offer many additional treatments that can be used to restore volume, build collagen, and tighten the skin if needed.
Can you take a GLP-1 agonists if you are not diabetic?
Yes, you can use GLP-1 agonists even if you are not diabetic. This is however, considered to be an “off-label” use, because GLP-1 agonists are typically prescribed for those with type 2 diabetes, obesity, or medical concerns. It is important to see a provider/clinic that is well educated on weight loss as a whole, rather than simply prescribing medications, because long-term weight management requires diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes even alongside using weight loss medications.
If you are seeking a more holistic or functional approach to weight loss, click the link below to book a consultation and talk with one of our providers.
Who should avoid GLP-1 agonists?
Below are a few common reasons why people should not take GLP-1 agonists or weight loss medications. Before starting any medications it is important to consult with a medical provider who goes through thorough medical history, screening, and blood work to ensure you are a proper candidate.
- Thyroid cancer, or a family history
- Type 1 Diabetes
- Pancreatitis
- Liver disease
- Pregnant, breast feeding, or planning to become pregnant
- Severe gastrointestinal disorders
- Kidney disease
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia
- Allergic reactions to weight loss medications
- People taking other medications that lower blood sugar
Our providers at Elite, take screening before any procedure/medication seriously, to avoid reactions or serious side effects. We are not afraid to say “no” when it is necessary.
Are there natural supplements that work like weight loss injections?
There are some natural supplements that may help aid in weight loss, but it is unlikely that they will have the effects of weight loss medications. Some of these natural supplements include:
- Berberine: A plant based compound that can help blood sugar balance
- Green tea extract: Contains natural caffeine, which may increase metabolism
- Chromium: A mineral that enhances insulin and turn food into energy
It is important to consult with a medical provider before taking any supplements.
How much do GLP-1 agonists cost in Colorado?
The cost of GLP-1 agonist medications in Colorado depends on the type of medication and if you are using insurance, or not. It can cost, on average, anywhere from $200-$800 for a month long supply. It is important to note that health coaching and getting injections at an office (if you don’t want to inject yourself) can also cost more.
At Elite, we do not accept insurance, but many people will use their HSA cards for treatments. We also offer Cherry financing for budgeting options as well.
Why is Tirzepatide more expensive?
There are many factors that influence the cost of medications, including research, manufacturing, marketing, and development costs. There is currently no generic form of Tirzepatide, which means it is only produced by one company and therefore they are able to se the price.
With that being said, we work to offer treatments that are safe and effective, bottom line. Some studies show that Tirzepatide is the best medication for medical weight loss because of its limited side effects, high safety profile, and proven results.
Conclusion:
Utilizing GLP-1 agonists in micro doses in conjunction with diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes can be beneficial for someone on a weight loss journey. Our functional approach to weight loss injections prioritizes the overall health of someone without relying on a medication alone. We thoroughly screen clients, consult with them, and meet regularly through the program to ensure optimal results are met.
Each program is individualized to each client’s needs, and we are here for support through it all!
Link below to book a consult with one of our providers.
Elite Medical & Aesthetics is a premier med spa located in Lone Tree, CO that takes a holistic approach for natural results. We pride ourselves in having an all nursing staff of NP’s that put safety as #1 priority.
