Medical Weight Loss at CNOS
The Weight Loss team here at CNOS is excited to offer a non-surgical weight loss option for those who either don’t qualify for weight loss surgery or simply prefer a different, less invasive option! We now offer Semaglutide and Tirzepatide injections to patients looking for an option to get them on the right track during their weight loss journey!
What are Semaglutide and Tirzepatide and what are they used for?
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide injections belong to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1receptor agonists, or GLP-1 RAs. It mimics the GLP-1 hormone released in the gut in response to eating.
One role of GLP-1 is to prompt the body to produce more insulin, which reduces blood sugar (glucose). For that reason, health care providers have used semaglutide for more than 15 years to treat Type 2 diabetes. In higher amounts, GLP-1 also interacts with the parts of the brain that suppress your appetite and signal you to feel full. When used in conjunction with diet and exercise, it can cause significant weight loss in people who are obese or overweight.
Am I a candidate for weight loss injections?
To learn more about our Medical Weight Loss option at CNOS, and to find out if you are a candidate for Semaglutide or Tirzepatide injections, please call or email our Bariatric Coordinator using her contact info below:
Heather Garlinghouse (Bariatric Coordinator)
CALL: (605) 217-5511
EMAIL: heather.garlinghouse@cnos.net
No referral necessary!
Brenda Van Scoyk, PA-C
Medical Weight Loss: Semaglutide/Tirzepatide Q & A’s
What are the possible side effects of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?
The side effects of semaglutide are typically mild, especially when compared to the complications associated with being overweight and obesity.
People taking semaglutide for weight loss may experience:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Gastrointestinal issues such as:
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Pain or distention (bloating)
Gastrointestinal issues are the most common complaint among people just starting semaglutide. But you may be able to reduce the side effects by beginning on a lower dose and then slowly increasing the amount you take.
How do I take this medication?
The ultimate goal is to use the smallest dose of medication to achieve the desired effect, while minimizing side effects.
- Week 1: Inject 5-10 units
- Week 2: Increase your dose by another 5-10 units, if needed
- Week 3 and beyond: Increase your medication as needed on a once weekly basis. If you experience significant side effects, you may need to lower your next week’s dose by 5-10 units.
How is this medication stored?
This medication should be stored at a refrigerated temperature of 36° F to 46° F at all times.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you realize that you missed a dose, take your next dose as soon as you remember, and that will become your new dose day.
For example: If your dose day is Wednesday, and you realize you missed a dose on Friday, take the injection on Friday and Friday will become your new dose day.
What key warning signs and precautions should I know about before taking this medication?
- Do not use if you or your family have ever had a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma, or if you have an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2.
- Tell your healthcare provider if you get a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath. These may be symptoms of thyroid cancer.
- Tell your healthcare provider if you have pancreas or kidney problems, type 2 diabetes, diabetic retinopathy, take other medications to treat type 2 diabetes such as sulfonylureas or insulin, have mental health issues including depression or suicidal thoughts.
- Do not take if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant as the product may harm your unborn baby. Stop using this product at least 2 months before you plan to become pregnant. It is unknown if semaglutide passes into your breastmilk. Talk with your healthcare provider about using this medication if you are currently or plan to breastfeed.
- Do not take this medication if you are allergic to any components of this product. Stop taking your medicine and seek immediate medical attention if you have any signs of a severe allergic reaction such as rash or hives spreading across your body, any swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, or any signs of trouble breathing.
- Give your healthcare provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
*This is not a complete list of key warnings and precautions.
**Reach out to your healthcare provider with any questions.
What is the cost of the Medical Weight Loss program?
The cost of our Medical Weight Loss program is $165 per month, this does not include the cost of the medication.
The cost of medication with shipping:
- Semaglutide: 2 ml(200 units) vial – $155
- Tirzepatide: 2 ml (200 units) vial – $295
For additional information on cost, please reach out to Heather Garlinghouse at (605) 217-5511 or heather.garlinghouse@cnos.net