What does GLP-1 stand for?
Glucagon-like peptide. A peptide is a string of molecules called amino acids, which are the "building blocks" of proteins. Peptides are basically short proteins that are about 2-100 amino acids long.
Peptide therapy is the use of peptides, a hormone to change or improve how certain parts of your body work. For instance, some athletes use growth hormone-releasing peptides to help their body produce more growth hormone. This can help their bones and muscles recover after hard training and competing.
How do GLP-1 Medications work?
We all have GLP-1s in our bodies. These are naturally occurring hormones which are released from our gut after we eat. The function of GLP-1s is to boost the amount of insulin our bodies make to keep our blood sugar within a normal range, as well as provide the sensation of fullness after a meal. The same effect on insulin regulation and appetite happens when GLP-1 receptor agonists come into play.
Benefits of GLP-1, semaglutide
Feel fuller after and between meals.
Have improved glucose levels.
Experience reduced thoughts about food.
How much does Semaglutide cost?
Semaglultide is the compounded version of similar ingredients that are in Ozempic and Rybelsus. In January of 2024, the FDA stated that there was a shortage of GLP-1 drugs and gave compounding pharmacies an emergency exception to begin producing the drug.
The drug being prescribed to many of us weight-loss is from a compounding pharmacy. You can expect to pay $200 to $399 per month or more. Most online companies that prescribe this drug, will lock you into a 3–6-month supply. So, $600-$900 for 3-months' worth.
Semaglutide, where to purchase?
There are several on-line, telehealth providers who prescribe semaglutide along with other weight loss aids, like Hormone Replacement Therapy. Like most things, you can start online to find an in person or telemedicine provider.
In 2021 the FDA approved the use of these drugs for weight loss. In January 2024 when the compounded versions became available, it opened the door for online companies, telehealth providers and other medical doctors to begin prescribing the compounded version as a compliment to other products, like HRT that they already offered.
Semaglutide does require a prescription from a doctor. Once you schedule an appointment with your telehealth provider, they will prepare the prescription and send to their compounding pharmacy partner and have the medication shipped directly to your home.
Will insurance cover semaglutide for weight loss?
In order for insurance to cover the GLP-1 medication, you will need to be prescribed one of the named brands AND you must also meet the following criteria.
Body mass index of 30 or more, or…
Body mass index of 27 or more with a weight-related complication, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol
Are unable to lose weight after making lifestyle changes
Have a history of high and low weight change fluctuations
Note, due to the 'customization' of drugs from compounding pharmacies, you should expect that your insurance will NOT cover the compounded version of this drug. Insurance companies don't typically cover meds that come from compounding pharmacies.
Do I need a prescription for semaglutide?
It's much like the process for HRT and was actually pretty easy for me to get a prescription for myself. I was already scheduled for an appointment with my telehealth Physician Assistant to renew my prescription of bioidentical hormones and at the end of our conversation, I asked her about the weight loss products they offered. She was more than happy to extend our time together to discuss. Within a week I had the medication in my hands and was ready to give myself the first injection.
The injection isn't so bad. I opted to give in my torso area. I bunched a couple of my fat rolls together and it made for a perfect pin cushion.
Semaglutide for Menopause weight loss: Can I take Semaglutide and HRT?
Yes, this is the best news ever! We have studies, not many of course, as this is a newer medication, but the ones that do exist indicate that it's safe to take both Hormone Replacement Therapy and Semaglutide together for menopause weight gain. Actually, taking both may be the one of best weight loss solutions available for menopausal women ever on the market.
According to Menopause Solutions' February 2023 article, Semaglutide and Weight Loss, "Due to the hormonal changes associated with menopause, semaglutide is particularly effective for effective and sustained weight loss in middle-aged and menopausal women."
I'm so excited to be at the forefront of this era of new options for menopausal weight loss. Hormone Replacement Therapy will help replace the hormones that are no longer being produced by our ovaries and adrenal glands. With the addition of semaglutide to help with hunger and food noise, it's the perfect combination.
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