Weight Loss

Why is Weight Control Important?

Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important factors in supporting long-term health and longevity. Research suggests that weight control, reducing calorie intake, reducing sugar intake, and certain dietary patterns—such as fasting—may support metabolic health, reduce inflammatory burden, and promote healthy cellular function. Excess sugar intake can contribute to weight gain and metabolic dysfunction by reducing the body’s sensitivity to insulin, which may increase the risk of conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Weight management is best supported through a combination of nutritious food choices, regular physical activity, and an active lifestyle. You can manage your weight by eating healthy foods, getting regular exercise, and staying active with sports or fun physical activities. For people who need extra help, newer medications such as GLP-1–based therapies (including Ozempic® and Wegovy®) can help control appetite, improve blood sugar, and promote steady, sustainable weight loss under the guidance of a physician.

GLP-1 Agonsits: A Breakthrough in Medicine

The class of medications known as GLP-1 agonists—such as semaglutide, tirzepatide, Ozempic®, and Wegovy®—represents an important advancement in medical therapy. Initially developed for the management of diabetes, these medications were later shown to be effective in managing obesity in appropriate patients.

When combined with lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, these medications may help support weight loss in a safe and structured manner. Side effects are generally manageable for many patients, though they can vary between individuals. It is essential that these medications are prescribed and monitored under the supervision of an experienced physician to ensure appropriate dosing, ongoing monitoring, and timely management of any side effects.

How is the medication given?

The medication is administered as a once-weekly injection under the skin. It can be given either in the office or at home if the patient is comfortable doing so. Over time, the dose may be gradually adjusted based on individual response and tolerance, under physician guidance, to support safe and effective weight management.

Meet Dr. Nick Sadeghi

“The mission of my regenerative clinic is to help you feel better, look better, and support longevity and vitality—so you can remain as active, healthy, and engaged as possible for as long as possible.”

If you’re over 35 and feeling tired, gaining weight, losing motivation, struggling in the gym, or noticing changes in your libido—you’re not crazy. You’re not weak. And you’re definitely not alone.

I felt it too.

Using advanced regenerative and longevity-focused medicine, my practice is designed to support recovery, performance, and healthy aging. Our core treatments focus on optimizing natural biological processes with therapies such as Hormone Replacement Therapy, NAD, Regenerative Biologic treatments, Platelet-Rich Plasma, Peptides, Tenex, EBOO, and other modern techniques.

Dr. Nick Sadeghi

What are the side effects?

The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and acid reflux, which tend to occur more often at higher doses. In rare cases, a condition called pancreatitis has been reported. To reduce the risk of side effects, treatment is typically started at a low dose and gradually increased while the patient is closely monitored. If side effects occur, the dose may be adjusted or reduced based on individual tolerance and clinical judgment.

Are there any long-term side effects?

Before any medication can be approved by the FDA, it must undergo extensive clinical testing over many years. GLP-1 agonists have been studied since the 1970s, with the first drug released in 1998 for the management of diabetes. Semaglutide (Ozempic®) began clinical trials in 2008, was approved in 2017 for diabetes management, and later approved in 2021 for weight management. While certain patients may not be candidates due to specific contraindications, long-term studies to date suggest that these medications are generally well tolerated when appropriately prescribed and monitored. Ongoing research continues to further evaluate long-term safety outcomes.

I’ve heard about people taking the medicine and they look like they are wasting away?

When the body loses weight, it typically does so in a predictable pattern. Carbohydrate are used first, followed by fat loss. If fat stores become significantly depleted, the body may begin to break down muscle and protein for energy, which can contribute to a gaunt or overly thin appearance in some individuals.

To help reduce this risk, the following guidelines are important:

The medication should be used in individuals who have a clear medical indication for weight loss.
It should be part of a comprehensive weight-management program that includes nutrition and regular exercise, particularly resistance training, to support muscle mass.
Weight-loss targets should be established in advance, and ongoing use of the medication should be regularly reassessed with a physician once those goals are approached or achieved.

What do these medications cost?

Brand-name GLP-1 medications may be covered by insurance for patients who meet specific medical criteria. For people who do not qualify for coverage, out-of-pocket costs can be very high. In some cases, GLP-1 medications may be prepared by compounding pharmacies that operate in accordance with FDA regulations and state pharmacy standards. Compounded formulations can offer a more affordable option for certain patients, depending on availability and clinical appropriateness. You may encounter lower-cost options through online services; however, there may not be physician oversight or clear information about medication sourcing. For this reason, decisions about starting GLP-1 therapy should be made in consultation with an experienced physician who works with reputable, properly regulated pharmacies.

Conclusion:

Maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and reducing excess sugar intake are important ways to support overall health and long-term well-being. A successful weight-management strategy should focus on sustainable lifestyle changes, including improved nutrition and regular exercise. When appropriate, GLP-1 medications can be a useful tool to support weight management as part of a broader care plan. As a patient, it’s important to remember a few key principles: GLP-1 therapy should be part of a comprehensive weight-control program, care should be guided by an experienced physician, and the weight loss journey is not a sprint, but a marathon.