At Old Town MedSpa, we provide multiple treatment options for weight loss, including semaglutide. Semaglutide is the first once-weekly medication in its class that may aid in long-term weight management, particularly when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
The Gharbi Doctors (Dr. Shazel Gharbi and Dr. Nael Gharbi), who are board-certified in aesthetic and internal medicine, utilize semaglutide as part of a comprehensive weight management regimen. They prescribe it alone or in combination with other medications to help patients achieve their goals.
What Is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is an injectable glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist that's administered once a week. Semaglutide should be used in conjunction with lifestyle modifications, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.
How Does Semaglutide Work?
GLP-1 is an incretin hormone that plays a role in your appetite and digestion.
Incretins — hormones released by your digestive tract — are sent out by your body after you've eaten a meal. They help lower your blood sugar by triggering the release of insulin and blocking sugar production. They also slow down how quickly food leaves your stomach (called gastric emptying). These actions cause you to feel full and lower your appetite.Â
Medications like GLP-1 agonists are referred to as incretin mimetics since they "mimic" these effects.
How Is Semaglutide Dosed?
Semaglutide is administered as a weekly injection. It can be given at any time of day, and you can take it with or without food.
Semaglutide is typically injected just under the skin (subcutaneously) in your abdomen, upper arm, or thigh.
Since semaglutide slows down the rate at which food leaves your stomach, you may experience side effects such as nausea and vomiting.
Once you start taking the medication, our doctors will adjust your dose as needed. They will determine the appropriate dosage by considering your progress and any side effects you experience.
What Do We Know About Semaglutide Side Effects?
Gastrointestinal (GI) side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting, are most commonly associated with this medication. You may experience these effects more strongly with higher doses.
Additional side effects can include:
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Indigestion
- Dizziness
- Bloating
- Burping
What Kind of Semaglutide Do We Use?
We use compounded semaglutide prepared by FDA-registered compounding pharmacies. While these pharmacies meet regulatory standards, the compounded version of semaglutide itself is not FDA-approved. This means it has not been individually reviewed by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing quality.
It's essential to note that FDA-approved semaglutide products are available, and patients are encouraged to discuss all options with their healthcare provider to determine the best fit for their individual needs.
Am I a Good Candidate for Semaglutide?
A good candidate for semaglutide is an adult who meets the following criteria:
- They have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.
- They are motivated to make long-term lifestyle changes, including improving their diet and physical activity.
- They do not have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2.
A consultation with a medical provider can help determine if semaglutide is appropriate based on health history and goals.
Why Choose Old Town Med Spa?
Patients seeking semaglutide for weight management in Chicago or Lincoln Park can feel confident choosing Old Town Med Spa. As board-certified physicians in both aesthetic and internal medicine, Drs. Nael and Shazel Gharbi bring over a decade of experience in medical care and nearly as many years in aesthetic medicine.
Known as two of Chicago's top cosmetic surgeons, they combine clinical skill with a genuine passion for helping patients reach their goals. Their hands-on approach, advanced training in body contouring, and commitment to medical excellence set Old Town Med Spa apart as a trusted destination for results-driven weight management.
FAQs
Learn More About Semaglutide Today
If you're ready to take control of your weight and improve your overall health, semaglutide may be the right option for you. At Old Town Med Spa, our experienced medical team is here to guide you through a personalized weight management plan that fits your lifestyle and goals.
Schedule your consultation today and learn how our team can help you move forward with confidence. We have offices in Lincoln Park, River North, and Bucktown.
