Ozempic Bellevue | Ozempic Weight Loss Program Bellevue

The Origins of Ozempic

Ozempic contains the main ingredient, semaglutide. Semaglutide mimics the GLP-1 hormone which helps regulate appetite and related functions. The drug can help lower blood sugar and induce the body to release insulin. Due to this, Ozempic is prescribed to treat type II diabetes. While taking the medication to manage type II diabetes, the patients frequently experienced significant weight loss.

In 2021, the FDA originally approved semaglutide for weight loss. However, it would not be until 2023 that the drug was further approved and became widely available via prescription for weight loss and chronic weight management. While pretty much identical to Ozempic, when prescribed and used primarily for weight loss, semaglutide was marketed under the brand name Wegovy. While pretty much identical to Ozempic, when prescribed and used primarily for weight loss, semaglutide was marketed under the brand name Wegovy.

People without type II diabetes can safely take Ozempic for weight loss as long as they do so under the guidance of a medical professional. Ozempic is not an over-the-counter medication and requires a prescription. The medical providers at The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery have created a weight loss program centered around individualized and customized Ozempic weight loss.

Ozempic vs. Wegovy

While both medications contain the same active ingredient and cause similar effects, there are some small differences between the two and how they are used. The primary difference is that Wegovy has a higher maximum dose and a slightly different dosing schedule. Also, while Ozempic is approved for treating type II diabetes, Wegovy is not, and vice versa for Ozempic and weight loss. Ozempic and Wegovy have the same manufacturer and the same active ingredient.

Another difference is that Wegovy make come with slightly more likely or worsened side effects. This is because Wegovy is prescribed at higher doses than Ozempic. Additionally, patients taking Wegovy may be more likely to develop worrisome symptoms of low blood sugar since they are not using the medication to regulate blood sugar.

Finally, insurance generally do not cover Wegovy, but are likely to cover Ozempic Bellevue. This may change with the latest FDA approval, but currently, semaglutide for weight loss is not covered by insurance companies to our knowledge.

The Semaglutide Weight Loss Program

The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery’s semaglutide weight loss program utilizes the same active ingredient as Ozempic. It then includes a diet and exercise plan. While Bellevue Ozempic is effective on its own, patients can see better and longer lasting results when they take steps to change their lifestyle.

Diet

The focus of the diet part of our semaglutide weight loss program is to find a sustainable and balanced way to eat. Everyone has different preferences and needs. Some of the recommendations our providers may apply to nearly anyone regardless of diet restrictions. For example, some of the diet advice may include:

• High levels of monounsaturated fats (from foods such as olive or canola oil, walnuts, pecans, and almonds) and low levels of saturated fats (from butter).
• High amounts of vegetables, fresh fruits, legumes, and whole grains (7 – 10 servings of vegetables and fruits per day).
• A moderate amount of lower-fat dairy products, mostly in the form of cheese.
• A relatively low amount of red meat and meat products. It is recommended to substitute fish or poultry for red meat.

Our diet plans are designed to not be too restrictive. Patients do not restrict carbs or fats. These diets are not sustainable. The Mediterranean diet is a frequently recommended plan that includes flavorful food and many possible options. It tends to include fish, chicken, and beans/lentils as sources of protein with plenty of vegetables and fruits added to each meal and throughout the day.

Exercise

The exercise plan—while important—does little without the diet. It also can be quite daunting for some people depending on their current lifestyle, weight, and condition. At first, the exercise can start slow and steady. Instead of carving out time for 30 minutes of exercise, patients can make small changes every day that help increase activity levels. Some examples may include:

• Taking the stairs instead of the elevator (even if only for one or two flights)
• Walk to nearby places instead of driving
• Stretch before bed or after waking up
• Walk the dog more frequently or further
• Make exercise a social activity
• Do the chores at a brisk pace

If a patient is already comfortable with exercise or when they reach a point of feeling ready to continue, they can start focusing on strength training days and non-strength training days. People with more muscle burn more calories. Therefore, if a patient can add muscle to their body, even a small amount, it can help improve their weight loss. Examples of strength training exercises can include:

• Weight lifting
• Certain forms of yoga
• Push-up
• Squat
• Lunge
• Plank
• Jumping jacks

Performing multiple strength exercises in quick succession can help with building muscle and endurance. With that said, it is important to perform weight training exercises correctly and carefully to avoid injury. If new, start off slow.

Non-strength training days can include activities patients may already enjoy and have more flexibility in activities the patient can do. A few examples of non-strength training exercises include:

• Bike riding
• Swimming
• Playing any type of sport
• Go for a walk
• Jog
• Rock climbing
• Dancing
• Yoga
• Work around the house

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Can You Stay On Ozempic For Weight Loss?

Semaglutide—the active ingredient in Ozempic—is designed as a long term medication. Patients can safely remain on semaglutide as long as there are no reactions or contraindications present. Sometimes after a patient reaches their goal weight and feels comfortable with their diet and exercise, their provider may agree they can lower the dose

Patients can choose to stop the semaglutide weight loss program at any time. There is no need to wean off the medication unless the patient wants to or chooses to remain at a low dose. It is recommended that semaglutide weight loss patients stay on the medication for a minimum of six months in most cases, but the best results are seen with consistent treatment.

Why See A Provider At The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery For Ozempic?

The providers who prescribe Ozempic at The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery are cosmetic surgeons and physician’s assistants. They assess each patient individually to ensure they are a good candidate for Ozempic. They understand the anatomy of the body and see patients who have both successfully and struggled to lose weight every day. Our surgeons frequently perform skin removal surgeries on people who have experienced massive weight loss.

As aesthetic and cosmetic providers, we understand all of the reasons a patient may want to lose weight and the difference it can make in someone’s life. However, we aim to provide a Bellevue weight loss program that patients can stick to and feel confident following.

Is There A Difference In Effectiveness Between The Injection & The Pill?

Studies have shown that there is no significant difference in efficacy between the injection and pill forms of semaglutide. It largely comes down to preference and budget. The providers at The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery can help patients determine which option is best for them.

What Is The Cost Of Ozempic For Weight Loss?

The cost of Ozempic weight loss in Bellevue at The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery depends on the form of semaglutide chosen.

Injection: $575 per month

Tablet: $700 per month

These costs include all of the necessary supplies, diet plan, exercise plan, virtual or in-person monthly check-in appointments, and 24/7 on-call doctors. The initial semaglutide consultation is free. To our knowledge, insurance is currently not covering Ozempic for weight loss at this time.