GLP-1 analogues, such as semaglutide (brand names Ozempic, Wegovy) that were initially licensed for treating type 2 diabetes have received a lot of publicity in the past couple of years, in great part due to their ability to help people lose weight.

The understanding so far has been that GLP-1 analogues work by mimicking the action of a similarly shaped molecule called a glucagon-like peptide, which is naturally released by the intestines soon after eating food.

This peptide binds to a specific receptor on the surface of beta cells in the pancreas, causing them to release insulin, and for a long time, researchers assumed that GLP-1 analogues only affected insulin release, hence why they were prescribed for type 2 diabetes.



The effect these drugs had on weight did not long go unnoticed, however, as losing fat can help people with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugars better, and even make the condition go into remission.

Studies conducted in recent years have discovered that GLP-1 analogues work in a variety of ways that contribute to weight loss, including by slowing gastric emptying, and by increasing a person’s sense of fullness after eating.

Here at My Doctor Weight Loss Clinic, we understand obesity is a chronic, multifactorial, and relapsing disease with an increasing prevalence estimated to reach 49% by 2030. Its medical burden includes multiple comorbidities, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, stroke, coronary heart disease, and various cancers. A total cost of $1.71 trillion in the United States was attributed to chronic diseases associated with obesity. Considering the medical and economic costs associated with obesity, effective weight management is important to mitigate the associated morbidity and mortality.

Starting dose is 0.25 mg, 4-week supply is $200, 0.50 mg, 4-week supply is $250, 1 mg, 4-week supply $300, 1.5 mg, 4-week supply $350 and 2.0 mg, 4 weeks supply $400. Recent labs are required for $50.