The primary beneficial effects of semaglutide:

• Decreased appetite

• Decreased cravings

• Decreased in symptoms and risk of all health issues related to obesity, ie: hypertension, stroke, cardiac disease and many others. 

 

Some effects, good/bad? 

• Decreased cravings for alcohol, tobacco and drugs *

• Decrease cravings altogether​

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Current studies include use of GLP-1A in treatment for drug addictions. ​

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The most common adverse side effects reported:

• Nausea - Usually experienced with initial dose and when initial during dose increase steps

• Vomiting - Not as common

• Heartburn - More common in those who have pre-existing acid reflux diagnosis

• Constipation - More common. Many report the need for a daily fiber supplement 

• Diarrhea - Not as common. Contact your provider if diarrhea greater than 24 hours.

• Abdominal cramping - More common when initial dose during dose increase steps

 

Contraindications 

Rare but serious adverse side effects

• Pancreatitis

• Gallstones

• Worsening of diabetic retinopathy

• Kidney damage

• Thyroid tumors

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Although the above are rare adverse side effects, having a history of pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, diminished renal function or any history in yourself or immediate family of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) type 2 are clinical indicators that you should not attempt to use any GLP-1A medication. ​ Anyone with the above pre-existing diagnosis will not be prescribed semaglutide from this clinic. 

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* Source: National Institute of Health