Semaglutide is an injectable prescription medication used together with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is also approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.
To qualify for semaglutide injections for diabetes or weight loss, there are certain requirements set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and manufacturers. Here are the key criteria:
For Type 2 Diabetes
- You must be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes by your doctor based on blood tests, symptoms, and medical history
- You should have an A1C level of 7.0% or higher despite efforts with diet, exercise, and other diabetes medications
- You must be 18 years of age or older
For Weight Loss
- You must have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or greater (obesity) OR a BMI of 27 or greater (overweight) with at least one weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol
- You should have tried to lose weight in the past with diet, exercise, and/or weight loss medications without successful long-term weight loss
- You must be 18 years of age or older
Prior to getting a prescription for semaglutide, your doctor will:
- Review your full medical history, including any conditions or medications that could impact treatment
- Order blood tests to evaluate your A1C if you have diabetes or check kidney/liver/thyroid function for weight loss purposes
- Assess for any history of medical issues that could make semaglutide unsafe for you
- Evaluate the benefits and risks of treatment
If you meet the requirements, your doctor can write you a prescription for semaglutide.
The starting dose is usually 0.25 mg or 0.5 mg once weekly, injected under the skin of your abdomen, thigh, or arm. The dose may be increased gradually every 4 weeks based on your tolerance and response to a maximum of 1 mg or 2 mg once weekly.
Your doctor will monitor you closely in the first few months to ensure the medication is working effectively and you are not experiencing side effects.
Follow-up visits, lab tests, and possibly EKGs will be required while on this medication.
If you think you may qualify for semaglutide and are interested in learning more, consider scheduling a consultation with our medical team at Hormone Wellness Center. As an experienced
hormone therapy provider, we specialize in weight loss treatments and can determine if this medication is appropriate for helping you meet your health goals. Our compassionate staff will fully review your health profile, explain how semaglutide works, and develop an individualized treatment plan catered to your needs.
Contact us today to take the first step!