Frequently Asked Questions

 No, semaglutide is not a type of insulin or a substitute for insulin. Semaglutide does stimulate your pancreas to release insulin when glucose (sugar) is present. Because semaglutide relies upon your body’s own insulin to have this effect, semaglutide isn’t used when your pancreas can’t make insulin, such as in patients in type 1 diabetes. 

 The BMI of 30 is an insurance qualifier. Because we do not accept insurance, we do not need to abide by insurance criteria.  

 No, Semaglutide is not a stimulant. While other weight loss medications, like phentermine, have stimulating effects that help curb your appetite, Semaglutide works differently (see How Does It Work). 

Compound medication refers to the process of creating personalized medications by mixing, combining, or altering ingredients to fit the specific needs of a patient. This is typically done by a pharmacist and is tailored to the exact strength and dosage required, which can be very beneficial for patients who may need a specific formulation that is not available in standard, commercially-produced medications. Compound medications can also be formulated to exclude certain ingredients to which a patient may be allergic, or to provide an alternative form of administration (like turning a pill into a liquid) to make the medication easier to take.

 Compound pharmacies and medications are regulated primarily at the state level by state boards of pharmacy, which set and enforce standards for the practice of pharmacy, including compounding. These boards ensure that compounding pharmacies adhere to specific guidelines regarding the safety, quality, and efficacy of compounded medications.

At the federal level, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also plays a role in the oversight of compounding pharmacies, particularly after the passage of the Drug Quality and Security Act (DQSA) in 2013. This act was introduced following a meningitis outbreak in 2012 that was linked to contaminated compounded medications. The DQSA clarifies the FDA’s oversight over compounding pharmacies and distinguishes between traditional compounding pharmacies and outsourcing facilities.

 GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide help to control your blood sugar, but people taking them also tend to lose weight. GLP-1, the key hormone involved, slows down how fast your stomach empties food (called gastric emptying). Additionally, causes your pancreas to release insulin, semaglutide also blocks a hormone that causes your liver to release sugar (glucagon). Together, these functions can help you feel less hungry, causing you to eat less food and lose more weight.

 Weight loss from GLP-1 medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide can vary depending on individual factors such as diet, exercise, dosage, and overall health. However, generally, patients might start to see weight loss within a few weeks after starting the medication. 

 GLP-1 medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide are typically considered safe for long-term use, especially when they are effectively managing conditions like type 2 diabetes or contributing to significant weight management benefits. The duration for which an individual should remain on these medications depends on several factors including their specific health conditions, how well they tolerate the medication, and the goals of treatment. 

 Long-term clinical studies have supported the safety and efficacy of these drugs over extended periods. For instance, semaglutide has been studied in clinical trials spanning over a year, showing sustained weight loss and metabolic benefits. Similarly, ongoing studies with tirzepatide continue to evaluate its long-term effects, including weight management and cardiovascular outcomes.