Weight Loss Medication: A Stepping Stone to Your Ideal Self

If you're struggling to lose weight, weight loss medication may be a valuable tool in your journey. While not a magic bullet, these medications, when approved by a healthcare professional, can significantly boost your weight loss efforts when combined with healthy lifestyle changes.

Medication helps you feel fuller, reduces cravings, and may even increase your metabolism. This support makes it easier to stick to a reduced-calorie diet and exercise plan.

It's important to remember that weight loss medication isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. If medication alone doesn't provide the desired results, don't worry! We can seamlessly transition you to weight loss surgery 'if you are a candidate', a more intensive option often leading to greater weight reduction.

Our commitment at Las Vegas Bariatrics is to help you reach the healthy, confident self you envision. We'll work with you to find the most effective path – whether that's through medication, surgery, or a combination of both.

Are You a Candidate for Weight Loss Shots?

How Much Weight Are You Looking to Lose?

Patients looking to lose a modest amount of weight will probably benefit most from weight loss shots. On average, patients lose roughly 7 to 8 pounds in their first month of Semaglutide or Liraglutide treatments. While that may be a lot to some, it falls far short of the goal for others.

Weight Loss Injection Consultation

In the private consultation, we thoroughly assess the patient's medical history and current status to determine their suitability for weight loss injections. Candidates with a history of tumors or cancer are generally not considered. Complete disclosure of current medications is essential during the consultation.

What is the Appropriate BMI for Weight Loss Shots?

Patients with a BMI under 30 are typically not considered candidates for treatment. Weight loss injections are usually reserved for those whose BMIs are at least 30 and whose health is impacted by their weight. That said, patients with a BMI as low as 27 may be eligible if they are struggling with certain weight-related health conditions (heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, etc.). 

Weight loss medication is considered to be an excellent option for obese patients who are looking to undergo surgery, such as Gastric Sleeve, but need to lose a certain amount of weight before being cleared. These individuals typically have a high BMI of 60 or over. To have safe surgery, your surgeon will encourage you to lose weight. Additionally, bariatric surgery can be dangerous for patients with a higher BMI, as there is a higher likelihood of developing complications.

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Does Insurance Cover Medical Weight Loss Treatments?

Our weight loss shots in Las Vegas, like Semaglutide, aren't usually covered by insurance as they're considered cosmetic. Patients must prove medical necessity for approval.

For approval, both patient and practitioner must complete forms, providing extensive documentation. The insurance process is lengthy, and many practitioners find it cumbersome. Patients should be aware of the potential high costs if they choose to pay out of pocket.

Do Weight Loss Shots, Like Semaglutide, Come With Any Side Effects?

Weight loss shots, such as Semaglutide, have potential side effects that may accompany their use. These include the following:

  • Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are among the most commonly reported side effects. These symptoms are typically mild to moderate and tend to decrease over time as the body adjusts to the medication.
  • Decreased Appetite: While reduced appetite is one of the intended effects, it can sometimes lead to insufficient calorie intake, causing fatigue and weakness.
  • Injection Site Reactions: Redness, swelling, or irritation at the injection site can occur, though these reactions are generally mild and temporary.
  • Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): Low blood sugar levels are a risk, particularly when combined with other glucose-lowering medications. Symptoms may include dizziness, sweating, and confusion.
  • Fatigue: Some individuals may experience tiredness or low energy levels, especially in the early stages of treatment.
  • Pancreatitis: Although rare, there is a potential risk of pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas, which requires immediate medical attention if severe abdominal pain occurs.

There may be other long-term effects that we are unaware of at this time. This is simply because Ozempic (a type of Semaglutide) and related treatments are new, and there is no data on what patients experience long-term. Patients should be aware of this when proceeding with treatment. 

Do I Have to Stay on Medical Weight Loss Treatments Forever?

Discontinuing your weight loss shots will result in a return of pre-treatment symptoms. Patients will again experience normal hunger levels and could return to their old eating habits. The only way to maintain the effects long-term is to continue treatment. However, those who make significant lifestyle changes in conjunction with their weight loss treatments will have an easier time keeping weight off in the future.

Is Surgery the Best Way to Achieve Long-Lasting Results?

It’s no secret that surgical procedures can achieve permanent results. The weight lost during surgery seldom returns. That said, patients who cannot make lifestyle changes may eventually return to their original weight. Achieving long-lasting weight loss requires a comprehensive approach and a shift in mindset.

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