LifeStyle Health Services

Best Weight Loss Injections: Which One Is Right for You?

Starting a weight loss journey is an exciting, but intimidating decision. Healthy progress is the obvious goal, but with so many weight loss drugs and other treatments to choose from, you might be wondering how to choose the best injectable medications. After all, the best treatment for you will depend on your unique body composition and medical history.
To learn more about how to choose the most effective weight loss injection, our experts at Lifestyle Med Spa have crafted a comprehensive guide. Read on to discover which treatments can benefit you!
Weight Loss Injections

What are Weight Loss Injections?

Taking the world by storm since 2021, weight loss injections are specially-formulated medications meant to address high body weights and weight-related health conditions. Multiple clinical trials have shown users experience average weight loss of over 15%.
How does it work?

Instead of expecting people to rely solely on willpower to achieve progress, these injections treat obesity as a chronic metabolic disease. They mimic the natural hormones that regulate appetite and blood sugar, helping users feel fuller when eating and reduce cravings for longer. Depending on your current health challenges, certain injections can also low digestion and improve insulin levels.

Who Should Consider Weight Loss Medications?

Weight loss injections are a revolutionary new tool that a variety of people can take advantage of. You should consider treatment if you are:
  • Obese: If you have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, injections may be an ideal solution.
  • Have Health Concerns: If you struggle with conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure, injections can help you get to a weight that mediates symptoms.
  • Chronic Weight Management Issues: If you simple struggle with persistent weight gain, despite attempts to curtail food cravings and exercise regularly, this medically-supervised approach can help you finally see progress.

Common Weight Loss Injection Treatments

There are a variety of injections that help promote weight loss and healthier eating habits. The right treatment for you will largely depend on your personal body type, health conditions, and weight loss goals. Here are some common examples:

GLP-1

An excellent choice for both chronic weight and diabetes management, GLP-1 belongs to a class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It works by imitating the GLP-1 hormone in your body, boosting insulin production, reducing the release of glucagon, and slowing down how quickly your stomach empties. The result is lower blood sugar after eating, helping to curb appetite and promote healthy weight loss.
This is the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy, though the two drugs are used for slightly different purposes. In both cases, it’s safe and effective, being FDA approved in 2021 by four 68-week trials involving 4,500 patients.

Ozempic

Designed specifically for chronic weight issues associated with Type II Diabetes, Ozempic mimics the natural GLP-1 hormone to help regulate blood sugar levels. It does so by stimulating the natural production of insulin and reducing glucagon production for slower, healthier digestion. This process helps diabetics maintain a healthy lifestyle free from blood sugar spikes and lows. Plus, you’ll lose excess weight as you improve symptoms of diabetes.

Wegovy

With a higher dose than Ozempic, Wegovy is specifically approved for weight management and obesity treatment. It targets the same GLP-1 hormone, but with more emphasis on reducing cravings. You’ll feel fuller faster and more often, helping you to lose weight more effectively.

Potential Side Effects of GLP-1

While serious side effects are rare, there are some possible, mild side effects you should prepare for. You should also always inform your healthcare provider if you have thyroid cancer, blood vessel disease, or kidney disease, as these conditions can impact your ability to receive treatment.
Common Side Effects:
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Constipation
Rare but Serious Side Effects:
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Thyroid cancer risk (in individuals with a history of certain conditions)
  • Kidney complications
  • Pancreatitis
Common Weight Loss Injection Treatments

GLP-1/GIP

An alternative, but powerful option for both weight loss and diabetes management, GLP-1/GIP is a dual agonist. That means it activates both the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors. Doing so improves insulin release, regulates blood sugar, and significantly reduces appetite for greater weight loss compared to Semaglutides.
Clinical trials have shown patients losing 15-26% of their body weight, making it one of the most effective treatments available. Examples of GLP-1/GIP include Mounjaro and Zepbound.

Mounjaro

This injectable weight loss medication was initially approved for Type II Diabetes management, as it helps regulate blood sugar while promoting weight loss. By targeting both the GIP and GLP-1 receptors, insulin sensitivity and cravings are addressed, helping you lose weight quickly. While not yet FDA-approved specifically for weight loss, most patients experience a significant weight reduction on this injectable.

Zepbound

The weight loss drug Zepbound was the first FDA-approved GLP-1/GIP medication specifically for weight management in adults with obesity or overweight individuals with weight-related conditions. Its dual-action mechanism promotes substantial weight loss while improving overall metabolic health. Approved in 2023, Zepbound has quickly gained popularity for its ability to help patients achieve sustainable and clinically significant weight loss.

Potential Side Effects of GLP-1/GIP

While most side effects of GLP-1/GIP are mild and improve over time, understanding potential reactions is an important part of deciding which treatment is right for you. You should also discuss any pre-existing conditions, including thyroid cancer, gallbladder problems, heart disease, low blood sugar, or kidney disease to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Common Side Effects:
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Constipation
Rare but Serious Side Effects:
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Thyroid cancer risk (in individuals with a history of certain conditions)
  • Gallbladder issues
  • Low blood sugar (especially when combined with other diabetes medications)

Tips For Choosing The Right Weight Management Treatment

Now that you know all about the latest weight loss injections, here are some additional tips to help you choose the right treatment, and make the most of every session:

Develop Personal Goals

Why do you want to lose weight? Do you struggle with diabetes or fatty liver disease, or simply want to restore a more confident appearance? Take the time to determine your own personal goals before choosing which available medication is right for you. Ozempic and Mounjaro are great for Type II Diabetes management, while Wegovy and Zepbound may be ideal for those seeking higher weight loss.

Choose The Right Provider

When receiving weight loss injections, it’s vital that you work with a certified professional. At Lifestyle Med Spa, you’ll work with board-certified Physician Dr. Michael Rankin MD to ensure only the best possible results.

Understand Your Medical History

Your medical history can have a profound impact on your chosen treatments, whether you’re trying to avoid side effects or treat conditions like diabetes. Look into your medical records before you set up your initial appointment, so you can thoroughly review everything with the provider.

Research Side Effects

Luckily, side effects are provided above! However, you should also consider more detailed research if you struggle with any chronic health conditions.

Start Losing Weight Today At Lifestyle Med Spa!

At Lifestyle Med Spa, our injectable weight loss and management treatments can address a variety of health concerns and help you achieve your aesthetic goals. From reducing symptoms of diabetes to achieving your goal weight, Our certified providers are dedicated to helping you meet goals.
Plus, we offer a variety of other treatments as well. Whether you need help with chronic fatigue or personal training, we’re committed to helping you achieve the best results. Click here to start your free consultation.
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