How fast GLP-1 Medications works for weight loss will vary with each person. The first dose is small (.25 mg). It is primarily used to introduce the medication to the body without risking developing severe side effects. It can start working as soon as the first week, with some decrease in appetite and weight. After 4 weeks patients see a 2-3% loss of body weight. This could be about 5-8 lbs. More extensive weight loss occurs in 8-12 weeks.

Patients on Dr. Fisher’s weight loss program typically lose 10-30 lbs. per month* but results vary patient to patient.

Patients over 12 years old, patients with a BMI of 30 or more, or a BMI of 27 with one weight related medical condition: ie. Type II Diabetes, Hypertension, Hyperlipidemia, Hypercholesterolemia, sleep apnea, snoring, Asthma, Bronchitis, Emphysema, gastritis, reflux, Arthritis of any kind, peripheral vascular disease, post-gastric bypass, etc.

GLP-1 Medications is administered as a subcutaneous injection once a week. The injections are drawn up for you and are easy to administer. You need to inject the medication (with insulin syringe) into the fatty portion of your skin. Injection sites can be: abdomen (belly), upper lateral thigh (side), or upper arm. Rotate the sites weekly to avoid scarring, swelling, and less bruising. You can take this medication with and without food and at the same time/day each week.

GLP-1 Medications are administered as a subcutaneous injection once a week. The injections are drawn up for you and easy to administer. However, like all medications, they can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, constipation and diarrhea. These side effects are usually mild and temporary.

Yes. GLP-1 Medications are not a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise routine. It is a useful tool in combination with lifestyle and behavior modification, for patients struggling with obesity. To help make choosing the right foods easier while taking these medications, when you join Dr. Fisher’s program you also get free access to the EZDietPlanner & Fitness Tracker™ app. where you can follow our Diet for Weight Loss online or on-the-go.

The diet you will be following was created specifically to complement GLP-1 Medications. This plan aims to assist patients in maintaining balanced nutrition and alleviating various potential side effects associated with GLP-1 Medication use. They emphasize smaller, frequent meals rich in high-protein, high-fiber, whole grains, fruit, vegetables, and easily digestible foods. This combination is geared towards enhancing blood glucose regulation, and progressive weight loss while minimizing potential adverse effects of GLP-1 Medication therapy. Your daily meal plan can be found in the EZDietPlanner & Fitness Tracker™ app.

There is limited information on the safety and efficacy of using GLP-1 Medications with Phentermine together. These medications work differently to promote weight loss. GLP-1 Medications targets appetite regulation and Phentermine works as a central nervous system stimulant. Dr. Fisher’s offices have treated numerous patients who are on both medications together, without complications. Your physician/provider will discuss if this is appropriate for you. This decision will be made utilizing your history, current medications and overall health.

Speak to your Physician or Practitioner. Do not take GLP-1 Medications if you are a Type I Diabetic on Insulin, family history of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC), Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia 2 (MEN2), history of Pancreatitis or Gastroparesis (stomach paralysis), Pregnant, Breastfeeding, or a Type II Diabetic taking another GLP-1 Medication (Victoza, Trulicity, etc.), Chronic Kidney Disease.

Common side effects seen in patients are constipation, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting. These side effects are usually mild and temporary. Most of these side effects can be avoided. Speak to our Practitioners or Physicians for advice. Contact our Nurse Practitioner or Physician immediately if you experience more serious side effects/symptoms such as wheezing, swelling, severe abdominal pain. In the event of any emergency call 911.

These medications must be taken on a schedule, on the same day each week. Take a missed dose as soon as you remember it. Then go back to your normal schedule. If your next scheduled dose is in less than 48 hours (2 days), then skip the missed dose. DO NOT take 2 doses within 2 days of each other.

You MUST STOP TAKING THE GLP-1 MEDICATION TWO (2) WEEKS BEFORE SURGERY, to avoid aspiration while under anesthesia.

Store prefilled syringes in the refrigerator, DO NOT FREEZE. It is important that Compounded GLP-1 Medications are kept refrigerated. GLP-1 Medications can also be stored room temperature, in a cool dark place (no excessive heat or light). Keep both medications away from children and pets. Dispose of needles in a sharps container or hard, closed plastic container, and return to our office for disposal.