*Practice is limited to non-surgical weight loss
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Andrea Johnson, MD

As a young person, in my teens and twenties, I was generally athletic and maintained a normal weight. I loved to play in the outdoors…hiking, backpacking, mountaineering, rafting and even a little rock-climbing. But then came medical school and residency...... More

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Semaglutide Medication for Weight Loss: A Safe and Thoughtful Choice

When someone is dealing with obesity and other health conditions, safety is not something we take lightly. At our clinic, Dr. Andrea Johnson makes sure every treatment plan is carefully tailored. Weight loss is important, but it cannot come at the expense of overall health. That is why we choose treatments that have strong evidence behind them and are known for being well-tolerated.

Understanding Semaglutide Medication for Weight Loss

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 medication that has become a popular choice for weight loss. It is the same active ingredient found in brand-name options like Wegovy and Ozempic. Originally used for managing type 2 diabetes, semaglutide has shown remarkable results in helping people lose weight by controlling appetite and supporting healthier eating habits.

At our clinic, we often recommend semaglutide for patients who are looking for more than quick fixes. It is not a magic bullet, but it works effectively when combined with changes to diet and lifestyle.

How It Works in Your Body

Semaglutide mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1. This hormone has several effects that help with weight loss. It slows down how quickly food leaves the stomach, helping you feel full longer. It also influences the brain’s appetite centers so you do not feel as hungry throughout the day.

This makes it easier to make better food choices and avoid constant snacking. Instead of relying on willpower alone, patients feel like they have more control over their eating.

A Safe Option for Many Patients

One reason Dr. Johnson likes semaglutide medication for weight loss is because of its safety profile. Like any medication, it is not completely free of side effects, but for most people, they are mild and manageable.

The most common side effect is nausea, especially when starting treatment. That can sound unpleasant, but there is good news. Doctors have found that starting at a lower dose and increasing slowly over time helps the body adjust. This approach reduces the chance of nausea being a big issue.

Patients also receive close monitoring to make sure everything is going smoothly. If side effects do occur, Dr. Johnson works with them to find solutions, like changing meal timing or adjusting the dose.

Balancing Risks and Benefits

It is true that any weight loss medication needs to be weighed carefully against potential risks. But for many patients struggling with obesity and metabolic syndrome, the risks of doing nothing are even greater.

Metabolic syndrome brings with it a higher chance of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Carrying extra weight can make blood pressure and cholesterol harder to manage. By helping patients lose weight and adopt healthier habits, semaglutide helps reduce these risks.

When used with proper medical supervision, the benefits of semaglutide often outweigh the risks, making it a reasonable choice for many.

A Personalized Approach at Our Clinic

At Dr. Andrea Johnson’s clinic, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. She takes time to get to know each patient’s health history, lifestyle, and goals. This means evaluating whether semaglutide medication for weight loss is appropriate and then customizing a plan that fits.

That plan is more than just writing a prescription. It also includes:

  • Guidance on nutrition that works for real life.
  • Encouragement to add physical activity that feels doable.
  • Regular check-ins to see how things are going and make adjustments if needed.

Partnering for Long-Term Success

Dr. Johnson believes in building real partnerships with her patients. Weight loss is not just about hitting a number on the scale. It is about making changes that support better health for years to come.

By offering semaglutide as part of a comprehensive weight loss plan, she helps patients feel supported every step of the way.

If you are curious about whether semaglutide medication for weight loss is right for you, consider reaching out to us. Together, we can find a safe, effective path that respects your health and your goals.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation.