Semaglutide Weight Loss Program

The MLA weight loss program, utilizing injectable Semaglutide, is limited to overweight patients with a BMI of 27-30>, accompanied by a weight related condition. These conditions include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, heart disease, weight related arthritis or diabetes.

The program will require weekly injections with a provider in the office for a minimum of 6 weeks. After that patients will have the option to continue coming in weekly or can choose to come in every other week for injections and progress checks. If you choose to come every other week, a labeled, prefilled syringe will be sent home with the patient to administer their own injection on the non-appointment week. An in-office appointment for an injection is required to take a prefilled syringe home for the following week.

Office visits include an injection, weight & BMI check, review of diet, exercise, and progress. Any issues or side effects should be discussed or reported on these visits.

Semaglutide is a breakthrough treatment for people who struggle with weight loss. Despite its new use, and approval by the FDA, Semaglutide is extremely safe and well researched. It has been used safely and effectively for diabetes, however, may be used in non-diabetic patients for weight loss.

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like-peptide-1) receptor agonist. GLP-1 agonists work by stimulating your pancreas to increase insulin. This, in turn, causes the stomach to empty more slowly resulting in a sense of fullness, causing appetite suppression and weight loss. Semaglutide is an appropriate choice for people with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 27> with comorbidity. Healthy lifestyle choices, exercise, diet, and psychological support are important adjuncts to Semaglutide. In addition to weight loss, Semaglutide can help with diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and weight related joint pain.

The most common side effects with Semaglutide include

• nausea •acid reflux • vomiting • headache

• diarrhea • mild hair loss • abdominal pain • constipation

These possible adverse reactions are more common with escalating doses and resolve with discontinuation. Semaglutide may cause low blood sugar if prescribed with other diabetes medications.

Less common adverse reactions include

• pancreatitis • thyroid disorder • visual changes

Semaglutide should be avoided if there is a personal or family history of

• diabetic ketoacidosis • multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome • diabetic retinopathy • gallbladder problems

• pancreatitis • suicidal thoughts • Thyroid cancer • kidney injury • insulin dependent diabetes

We recommend a well-rounded diet between 1200-1400 calories, with exercise at least 3-5 times weekly. Consultation with a nutritionist and personal trainer are recommended. Although some programs permit self-injection, ours relies on weekly injections with a provider. Any issues or side effects should be discussed or reported at weekly follow up visits.

Why Maine Laser and Aesthetics?

Dr. Geraldine Ollila and the entire Maine Laser and Aesthetics team have dedicated their careers to providing solutions to men and women through the use of aesthetic medicine and technology. Our beautiful office located in Falmouth, Maine is your destination for exceptional care in a welcoming and peaceful environment.