SEMAGLUTIDE IN NYC WITH DR. SCHWARZBURG

Dr. Schwarzburg is a board-certified cosmetic physician with over ten years of experience in cosmetic treatments ranging from Botox to IV therapy. His expert opinion has been sought out by multiple prestigious publications including Glamour, Harper’s Bazaar, Forbes, and several others. Patients in New York City trust his expertise when it comes to skin restoration treatments, facial rejuvenation,  and body contouring. His careful and considerate approach to minimally invasive fat reduction methods has benefitted hundreds of patients over the years.

When you visit Dr. Schwarzburg at Skinly Aesthetics to begin your semaglutide injection journey, you will enjoy the following benefits:

  • The expertise of an Ivy-League educated physician with over ten years of expertise in minimally invasive and non-invasive aesthetic procedures;
  • A considerate consultation with an experienced provider with an expert knowledge of human anatomy and hormonal systems when it comes to weight loss;
  • The opportunity to finally achieve your body goals with the help of convenient, safe, weekly semaglutide injections;
  • Convenient weight loss methods that will not interrupt your daily routine and require virtually no downtime;
  • Multiple other minimally invasive fat loss procedures that Dr. Schwarzburg specializes in, including Kybella and CoolSculpting, in a luxurious, comfortable, highly rated NYC medspa.
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LOSING WEIGHT WITH SEMAGLUTIDE

Research from 2018 conducted by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found that 30.7% of American adults were overweight, and 42.4% struggled with obesity. These figures were determined using the BMI (Body Mass Index) classification, according to which those with a BMI of 25 to 29.9 are considered overweight, and those with a BMI over 30 are considered obese. With these overwhelming numbers, it’s clear that many struggle to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle.

Semaglutide, which first came on the market under the brand name Ozempic back in 2017, is an injectable medication that relieves some of the frustration of the weight loss journey by curbing an overactive appetite. It belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 agonists, or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists. These imitate GLP-1 –– a naturally occurring hormone that signals satiety to your body after an intake of nutrients. As such, incretin mimetics like semaglutide create the feeling of being full without necessitating the intake of a meal.

Here is a short overview of quick facts and benefits for semaglutide injections:

  • Weight Loss – When combined with a nutritious, portion-controlled diet and moderate exercise, semaglutide can help patients achieve sustained weight loss and finally get their dream body.
  • Efficacy – Studies have found an average decrease of 15% of body weight in just 1 year after the use of semaglutide, in combination with healthy lifestyle changes. For patients with type 2 diabetes, Ozempic can lower hemoglobin A1C to regulate blood sugar;
  • Safety – In the form of Wegovy, the FDA has approved semaglutide for the management of body weight in adults who are overweight or obese, while Ozempic can be used off-label for the same purpose;
    • The use of semaglutide can avoid having to resort to risky, invasive, and expensive bariatric surgery or liposuction;
    • Decreasing excess body weight and fast lowers your risk for kidney disease and other comorbidities of obesity and diabetes;

SEMAGLUTIDE: HOW IT WORKS

GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide are known as incretin mimetics. Incretin hormones (such as glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon-like peptide 1) are gut peptides that the small intestine secretes alongside insulin when you eat food. These hormones alert the endocrine system, gastrointestinal system, and the brain that you have eaten. Your body subsequently prepares to metabolize the consumed nutrients for fuel, which sets off a series of neurotransmitters and hormones that produce a feeling of saturation or satisfaction of appetite.

Semaglutide encourages the same type of appetite satisfaction –– and subsequent suppression –– by acting as an imitation of these incretin hormones. It signals to your body that you are full, even if you have only eaten a light meal. In doing so, it lessens your food cravings and helps you manage your diet. By signaling to your brain that you are full, semaglutide helps curb excessive eating habits, and also steers you away from fatty, greasy, or sugary foods that only provide a highly temporary feeling of fullness.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

IS SEMAGLUTIDE SAFE?

Semaglutide has been approved by the FDA in the form of Ozempic to monitor blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes; the FDA has also approved Wegovy, another form of semaglutide, as a weight loss drug. Ozempic can also safely be used as an off-label method of weight control in non-obese patients. While common side effects include nausea and gastrointestinal issues, these are generally temporary and resolve on their own; more serious or long term side effects are rare.

It is crucial that you disclose your personal and family medical history as well as current conditions to Dr. Schwarzburg during a one-on-one consultation; this includes other medications, OTC medications, or supplements that you may be taking. The advice of an experienced, board-certified physician like Dr. Schwarzburg can help you avoid complications and ensure that you are not at risk of severe adverse effects through a detailed examination of your medical history and present conditions.

DO SEMAGLUTIDE INJECTIONS HURT?

Semaglutide is normally injected into the stomach, thigh, or upper arm by the patient themselves. Some patients may feel squeamish about the idea of sticking a needle anywhere on their body; however, the needle on the injection pen is so tiny that most patients feel little to minimal discomfort, and most find that they get used to it fairly quickly. Dr. Schwarzburg advises patients to never inject the needle into the same area more than once a row to avoid injury, but some redness, bruising, or tenderness may occur.

HOW MANY SEMAGLUTIDE INJECTIONS ARE NEEDED FOR WEIGHT LOSS?

The length of time for which you will be taking semaglutide, as well as your body’s response to different dosages, will determine how many doses of semaglutide injectable you end up requiring. There is no single universal figure that will apply to every patient. You and Dr. Schwarzburg will work out the details of your personal treatment during your consultation and subsequent follow-up visits.

In general, here are things to keep in mind when it comes to the dosing of semaglutide:

  • Semaglutide injections like Ozempic are administered by the patient themselves on a weekly basis;
  • The regular dosage amounts vary slightly by drug brand name;
  • For Ozempic, the starting dose is 0.25 mg per 0.5 mL –– over time, and under the guidance of your physician, this amount will increase to a maximum dosage of up to 2.4mg;
  • It usually takes around 16 weeks to reach the full dosage, but it can take up to several months for you to achieve your goal weight;
  • Semaglutide injections alone are not as effective as using them alongside a personalized workout regimen and a healthy diet.

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR SEMAGLUTIDE INJECTIONS IN NYC?

If you have struggled for a long time to control excessive eating habits or maintain a productive weight loss regimen, semaglutide can be a fantastic tool to get you on the right path. The best way to know if semaglutide is right for you is by having a consultation with a licensed medical professional like Dr. Schwarzburg. A thorough medical evaluation may involve blood work to determine if semaglutide will be safe and beneficial to you.

The following patients are great candidates for semaglutide according to the FDA:

  • Obese adults (with a BMI above 30kg/m2)
  • Overweight adults with a BMI over 27 kg/m2 who also have at least one weight-related ailment (such diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol)

WHAT ARE THE CONTRAINDICATIONS TO SEMAGLUTIDE?

Semaglutide has been approved by the FDA for individuals who are obese or overweight and suffering from a weight-related health condition. However, not everybody is suited for semaglutide injections. Some health conditions may even put you at risk when receiving this treatment. A thorough consultation with Dr. Schwarzburg is necessary to determine if you are an eligible candidate for a semaglutide treatment and are not at risk of complications. 

You may not be a suitable candidate if you have any of the following:

  • Family history of pancreatic or thyroid cancer;
  • Pancreatitis;
  • History of hypoglycemia;
  • Endocrine tumors in the pancreas, thyroid, pituitary, parathyroid, or adrenal glands;
  • Active gallbladder disease;
  • Kidney disease or other kidney conditions;
  • Presence of gastrointestinal issues;
  • Family history of MEN2 (Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2);
  • Pregnancy or plans for pregnancy;
  • Currently breastfeeding;
  • Alcoholism or heavy/frequent consumption of alcohol.

WHAT ARE RISKS AND SIDE EFFECTS OF SEMAGLUTIDE?

Previous weight loss medications were formulated with amphetamines as the focus. In comparison to these previous drugs, semaglutide comes with a lower risk of side effects. The most common of these include nausea and an upset stomach, as well as constipation, vomiting, and diarrhea. These effects tend to occur earlier on in the process and should lessen or disappear completely as your body grows accustomed to the medication. To help you understand the possible risks and adverse effects of this drug, here is a breakdown of reported side effects:

Most Common Risks or Side Effects

  • Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar);
  • Upset stomach;
  • Vomiting;
  • Diarrhea;
  • Nausea;
  • Constipation;
  • Headache;
  • Abdominal Pain;

Less Common Risks or Side Effects

  • Dizziness;
  • Allergic reaction;
  • Inflammation of the pancreas;
  • Flatulence;
  • Worsening retinopathy;
  • Increased risk of thyroid cancer;

Rare Side Effects

  • Injection site reaction;
  • Appendicitis;
  • Acute kidney injury;
  • Fatigue;
  • Gastritis;
  • Hypotension and syncope;
  • Gastroenteritis.

If you begin experiencing intense stomach pain or persistent nausea and vomiting that does not resolve on its own, as well as changes in your vision or urine production, seek immediate medical attention. The best way to mitigate adverse effects is to have a comprehensive consultation with a board-certified physician like Dr. Schwarzburg, follow his advice, and stay in touch with your provider to voice any questions or concerns.

WHAT ARE GENERAL GUIDELINES TO FOLLOW WHEN TAKING SEMAGLUTIDE INJECTIONS?

Patients technically do not need to adhere to any strict aftercare when it comes to semaglutide treatment – apart from the injection instructions provided to you by Dr. Schwarzburg –– but certain guidelines can help you attain the best results while reducing discomfort from side effects

Patients taking semaglutide should keep the following in mind:

  • Take stool softeners as needed to reduce constipation;
  • Take antacids to control acid reflux or nausea;
  • Adjust your sleep schedule if necessary to maintain a healthy amount of sleep;
  • Try to find a balance of enjoyable workouts and effective weight loss exercises;
  • Create a healthy diet plan full of nutrient-rich foods;
  • Control and manage stress to reduce side effects.
  • You do not need to take any time off work or schedule your semaglutide injections around your social life –– it’s easy to fit semaglutide into your regular routine.

WHAT SHOULD I EAT WHEN TAKING OZEMPIC?

There are no strict rules when it comes to your diet whilst receiving semaglutide injections. However, a list of tips and guidelines can help you maximize the efficacy of this medication, increasing weight loss effects while bolstering your metabolism. Semaglutide is most effective when you maintain healthy lifestyle habits that further support your metabolic health. Some guidelines that can help optimize the outcome while minimizing side effects include:

  • Eating whole foods and light foods;
  • Avoiding fast-digesting carbohydrates and processed foods;
  • Minimizing dessert and sugar intake;
  • Limiting foods that are greasy, fried, or high in fat – these are rougher on your digestive system and can lead to more stomach upset and nausea, especially when taking semaglutide;
  • Consuming cool, clear drinks – this means choosing water over soda, or tea over coffee;
  • Eating small portions at a gradual pace, rather than scarfing down giant meals.

WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON BRAND NAME DRUGS THAT CONTAIN SEMAGLUTIDE?

  • Ozempic –– Ozempic is an FDA approved injectable for the treatment of diabetes and management of blood glucose levels. With a doctor’s approval, it can be used off-label for weight management.
  • Wegovy –– Wegovy is an injectable that has been approved by the FDA as a weight loss drug for overweight patients or those with pre-existing weight-related health conditions. It is meant to be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and workout routine.
  • Rybelsus –– Similarly to Ozempic, Rybelsus is not approved as a weight loss medication by the FDA; it is intended for the regulation of blood sugar levels. Unlike Wegovy and Ozempic, Rybelsus is taken orally.

WHEN WILL I SEE THE RESULTS FOLLOWING SEMAGLUTIDE INJECTIONS?

Because everybody’s body, exercise routine, and diet plan is different, there is no single timeline when it comes to seeing the effects of semaglutide on your overall body. To give you an idea of how long this process might last: a double-blind study of 1,961 adults exhibited that those using semaglutide experienced a reduction in body weight of 14.9% over 68 weeks; this can be compared to participants who had received a placebo pill and only lost 2.4% of weight over the same amount of time.

The general breakdown of the semaglutide process is as follows:

  • Patient begins taking semaglutide at a dose of 0.5mg, slowly working their way up to the full dose of 2.4mg over several weeks;
  • Upon injecting the medication, patient will feel the effects almost instantly, and will continue to for a full week;
  • Semaglutide will increase the feeling of being satiated after consuming nutrition, meaning you feel a decreased appetite even when eating less food;
  • Early onset nausea when eating large portions will lower the temptation to overeat, particularly at the beginning of the process;
  • How effectively or quickly semaglutide works depends on the other measures you take to adjust your lifestyle;
  • A steady workout regimen as well as a diet consisting of nutrient-rich, whole foods instead of sugary or fatty carbohydrates will result in more significant weight loss than merely administering the injections without any further action;
  • It usually takes 16 to 20 weeks to grow fully accustomed to semaglutide and to start taking the maximum dose.

HOW LONG DOES WEIGHT LOSS WITH SEMAGLUTIDE LAST?

The reason semaglutide is injected every week is because it has a half-life of seven days –– this means that your body will feel the appetite-suppressing effects for an entire week. In contrast, GLP-1 protein that our bodies naturally produce only has a half-life of two minutes, which is why we often start feeling hungry again soon after we have eaten. The appetite-suppressing effect of semaglutide lasts for as long as you are regularly taking the medication. Any weight that you lose while taking semaglutide will be lost for good, provided you maintain the same diet and exercise routine; weight can be regained if you return to excessive eating habits or cease working out.

HOW MUCH DOES SEMAGLUTIDE COST IN NEW YORK?

Ozempic, or other semaglutide-based medications, can often lean on the more expensive side. However, if you are an individual with a health condition that can be treated or managed using semaglutide – such as diabetes – your insurance company may cover the cost.

Semaglutide as a weight loss treatment is generally not covered by insurance. If you are paying for semaglutide out of pocket, you can expect to pay between $800 and $1500 for a one month supply. While this might seem like a steep price tag to some, it is important to remember the many benefits it can have on your weight loss regimen, health, and day-to-day life.

Many patients consider the cost of semaglutide to be an investment in their personal happiness and well-being. Obesity can lead to long-term health problems later in life, which are expensive in and of themselves. The struggle to keep weight off is also often an expensive procedure, involving nutritionists and gym memberships; the help of an appetite-controlling medication can help you actually see the rewards of your efforts. It is also a safer and more cost-effective solution to alternative fat intervention methods like bariatric surgery or liposuction.

HOW IS SEMAGLUTIDE INJECTED?

You do not need to come into the clinic for multiple visits when you begin your semaglutide weight loss journey. Semaglutide, or Ozempic, is injected by the patient themselves on a weekly schedule in the comfort of their own home. This can be a daunting task for some, especially if they are afraid of needles or unused to administering their own medication. Fortunately, the process of injecting semaglutide is a simple and easy one.

Dr. Schwarzburg will provide you with more thorough, detailed instructions on your visit, but here are the general guidelines when it comes to injecting semaglutide:

  • Semaglutide is administered once weekly;
  • Semaglutide comes in both single-dose injector pens and multiple-use injector pens (for Wegovy and Ozempic, respectively)
  • First-time patients begin with a starting dose of 0.25 mg per 0.5 mL –– this increases to a maximum dosage of either 1mg (Ozpemic) or 2.4mg (Wegovy) weekly;
  • The injection is administered subcutaneously in the patient’s thigh, upper arm, or stomach;
  • Patients must and keep track of their last injection site –– you should never inject into the same area twice in a row;
  • If you are taking another injectable medication –– such as insulin –– it should be injected at a different site that is at least 15cm away from the semaglutide injection site;
  • Keep track of your injections on a schedule or calendar to ensure you meet your weekly doses and to avoid double-injecting;
  • If you want to change your injection day, make sure there is a 48 difference between your new injection day and your old one
    • for example, if you used to inject semaglutide on Monday, you must then change the day to Wednesday;
  • A missed dose should be taken as soon as you remember, if you remember within 5 days – beyond 5 days, it is recommended that you simply skip that dose.

WHAT CAUSES WEIGHT GAIN?

There is no singular answer or solution when it comes to managing weight gain and fat accumulation. Some people are genetically predisposed to carry more fat than others, while some tend to gain weight as a result of certain habits such as overeating or lack of exercise. The struggle to maintain a healthy and flattering body silhouette can be a cause of major frustration and insecurity for a lot of people –– not to mention the fact that obesity is also a massive long term health risk. These are the most common factors that play a role in the way individuals gain weight:

  • Overeating, or taking in an inordinate amount of calories that aren’t burned through exercise;
  • Lack of access to healthy whole foods like fruits and vegetables;
  • High intake of sugary foods and drinks;
  • Frequent consumption of greasy, fatty, or highly processed foods;
  • Lack of sleep;
  • Certain conditions or hormonal issues, such as an underactive thyroid or PCOS;
  • Certain medications such as antidepressants;
  • Busy schedules that prevent exercise and elevate stress;
  • A sedentary lifestyle coupled with a lack of cardio and other exercise.

As you can see, a major cause of weight gain is the overconsumption of foods, particularly ones that are high in fat and sugar. The appetite-suppressing effects of semaglutide help regulate the urge to overeat; coiled with proper exercise and dietary choices, this can combat the causes of weight gain.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS AND DISADVANTAGES OF SEMAGLUTIDE INJECTIONS?

Semaglutide injections are a great help to many people on their weight loss journey. If you are a prime candidate considering regulating your food intake through the use of semaglutide, you may want to consider the following pros and cons when making your decision.

The advantages that patients enjoy when using semaglutide weight loss injections include:

  • Decreased appetite that makes portion control easier;
  • Feeling more full and satisfied after eating less food;
  • Motivation to lead a healthier lifestyle more focused on a proper diet and exercise;
  • A boost to the metabolism and digestive system;
  • Safe, FDA-approved tool to regulate blood sugar levels;
  • Measured and controlled weight loss over time;
  • Achieving the body you strive for and overcoming the final hurdles of your weight loss journey.

To be sure semaglutide is the right choice for you, it’s important to take its disadvantages into consideration. Some of the drawbacks of semaglutide include:

  • Bloating, nausea, or stomach aches at the onset of treatment;
  • Certain serious risks including hypotension and appendicitis;
  • Not suitable for all types of patients;
  • Can be expensive;
  • Not always covered by insurance.

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE TO GET SEMAGLUTIDE INJECTIONS IN NEW YORK CITY?

Your first step to receiving semaglutide treatment is a consultation with Dr. Schwarzburg at his cosmetic clinic Skinly Aesthetics on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. Dr. Schwarzburg and his team strive to help you reach your aesthetic goals while making your comfort and safety a top priority. When it comes to  minimally invasive and non-invasive body contouring procedures and fat reduction methods, such as semaglutide injections, hundreds of patients in the Big Apple trust Dr. Schwarzburg and the expertise that he has acquired through years of high quality patient care. If you’re interested in learning more about semaglutide, or if you are ready to book your appointment, you can email us at info@skinlyaesthetics.com or call us at (212) 774-4264.