MEDICAL WEIGHT MANAGEMENT

How is Renewed Therapeutics Program Different?

Unlike other programs, we provide compassionate, judgment-free support, tailored to your unique journey. Our comprehensive approach includes dietary and exercise counseling, sleep optimization, weight loss medication, hormone optimization, mindfulness and stress management. We’re here to guide you every step of the way with care and understanding.

What is a GLP and how does it work?

Glucagon-Like Peptide (GLP) Medications

GLP medications, including semaglutide and tirzepatide, are innovative treatments that support weight management and metabolic health by working with your body's natural appetite and blood sugar regulation systems.

These medications mimic naturally occurring hormones called glucagon-like peptides (GLPs), which help regulate hunger, fullness, and blood sugar levels. By activating receptors in the brain and digestive system that influence appetite, GLP medications can reduce hunger, increase feelings of fullness, and help individuals consume fewer calories, leading to meaningful and sustainable weight loss.

GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone produced in the intestines that plays an important role in metabolism. It helps:

• Increase insulin secretion when blood sugar rises

• Reduce glucagon release from the pancreas

• Slow gastric emptying, helping you feel full longer

• Decrease appetite and food cravings

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist and is available under brand names such as Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus.

Tirzepatide works on both the GLP-1 receptor and an additional hormone receptor called GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), providing a dual-hormone approach to appetite regulation and metabolic health. Tirzepatide is available under brand names such as Zepbound and Mounjaro.

When combined with healthy nutrition, physical activity, and lifestyle changes, GLP medications can be valuable tools for individuals seeking support with weight loss, blood sugar management, and long-term metabolic health.

These medications are in high demand, and for good reason—we finally have a safe and effective option for weight loss. However, with increased demand comes higher prices.

Name-brand versions of Semaglutide, such as Wegovy and Ozempic, can cost $800–$1,200 per month. These medications also require specific insurance approvals, which involve meeting strict criteria for prior authorization. If you’re interested in pursuing coverage through insurance, we recommend contacting your primary care provider to begin the process.

Access is another challenge. As demand rises, supply diminishes, and name-brand Semaglutide is often backordered. Some patients report waiting up to 8 months to receive their medication.

To address these issues, we source Semaglutide from a reputable compounding pharmacy, where the medication is custom-made on-site. These pharmacies operate under strict state regulations to ensure safety and quality.

As your provider, we are required to inform you that FDA-approved versions of this medication are available. However, many patients prefer the compounded version for its lower cost and quicker availability.

What are the common side effects of GLP medications and what do I do if I experience these?

The most common side effects include: mild nausea, which is often temporary and most noticeable when starting the medication or increasing the dose. Simple remedies like a small glass of orange juice, oatmeal, or other bland foods can help settle an upset stomach in the morning.

Another frequent cause of nausea is overeating. GLP MEDICATION helps control appetite, but it also requires portion discipline—eating too much can lead to stomach discomfort as your body adjusts. 

If you notice any of these side effects, let us know! We are here to support you and keep you on track with your health goals!

How much weight will I lose?

The amount of weight loss varies depending on individual factors such as starting weight, lifestyle changes, and adherence to the treatment plan. On average, clinical studies have shown that patients can lose 15-20% of their body weight over a period of one year when using alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.  Results are 100% dependent on the patient and the effort that is put into the weight loss program.  Some patients are losing as much as 20 to 45 pounds at 3 months.  Diet is 80% of the battle and therefore if you make a lifestyle change in this area you will have more success at losing the weight and keeping it off.

Individual results may differ, and weight loss tends to occur gradually over time. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider and consistent lifestyle adjustments are key to maximizing the benefits.

Disclaimer: The FDA has cautioned that not all forms of Semaglutide or Tirzepatide are safe or effective. These medications can exist as either a chemical salt (such as sodium or acetate) or a chemical base. Reports have linked the salt forms to serious side effects, and there is no evidence to confirm their effectiveness. Despite this, salt compounds are often sold online by unlicensed pharmacies.The approved base forms of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide must be produced under strict FDA-regulated conditions, adhering to stringent guidelines. These medications are required to be prepared in a fully sterile environment to ensure their safety and effectiveness. Authentic compounded medications must be prescribed by a licensed provider and obtained from reputable, licensed compounding pharmacies. These pharmacies source their ingredients from FDA-approved manufacturers worldwide and operate in facilities that have been inspected and approved for sterility by the FDA. At Renewed Therapeutics, we exclusively partner with trusted, licensed pharmacies to ensure our patients receive safe, sterile, and effective medications.

It is semaglutide/tirzepatide safe with a history of pancreatitis or hypothyroidism?

As with any medication, Semaglutide/tirzepatide may cause side effects, some of which are more common than others. Although rare, it can lead to elevated pancreatic enzyme levels, and symptoms of pancreatitis, such as sudden severe abdominal pain, should be monitored closely. While a history of pancreatitis does not necessarily prevent the use of Semaglutide/tirzepatide, we will carefully track your symptoms and tolerance throughout treatment.

Semaglutide/Tirzepatide is safe to use if you have hypothyroidism and can be taken alongside common thyroid medications like levothyroxine or Armour Thyroid. However, we recommend continuing regular visits and lab monitoring with your primary care provider to manage your thyroid condition effectively.

Please inform us if you or your family have a history of medullary thyroid cancer. Although this type of thyroid cancer is extremely rare, Semaglutide/Tirzepatide is contraindicated in such cases for safety reasons.

What else should I know before starting a glucagon like peptide?

Women of childbearing age are advised to use contraception while taking Semaglutide/Tirzepatide. Additionally, it is recommended to stop the medication at least two months before attempting to conceive, as studies on its effects during pregnancy are limited.  

You will likely experience your best results the first time initiating a GLP drug.  There are many people that can do quite well on low doses of this medication along with diet and exercise.  This medication is typically titrated up every 4 weeks until the patient has reached goal weight and / or symptoms are not tolerable.  There are multiple studies that show higher dose causes more side effects.  Benefits of semaglutide/tirzepatide at low dosing include multiple advantages such as minimize side effects, improve tolerance, enhance appetite control, cost efficacy, customize treatment plan per patient, gradual weight loss, and reduce risk of hypoglycemia.  At Renewed Therapeutics we focus on a patient specific approach, tailoring your care to each patient individually.