Whole Beauty® Institute

Frequently Asked Questions about Semaglutide (GLP-1s) with Alison Karmin, PA-C

Alison Karmin, PA-C

Alison Karmin, PA-C is a Surgical Physician Assistant, Aesthetic Injector, and GLP-1 Weight Loss Specialist. Alison has helped many patients on their weight loss journeys through the use of Semaglutide and other GLP-1 medications. Alison works with patients individually and tailors treatment plans to meet their unique goals. Below Alison shares her answers to Frequently Asked Questions about Semaglutide (GLP-1 medications).

How effective is Semaglutide for weight loss?

Semaglutide is a very effective tool to kick start the weight loss process for patients. Semaglutide helps regulate a person’s appetite by quieting the “food noise”. In addition to incorporating healthy lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, Semaglutide is an extremely useful medication to help achieve weight loss goals.

What is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 agonist, which mimics natural hormones in the body that regulate appetite and digestion. Semaglutide was originally prescribed for patients with Type 2 Diabetes for glucose management, but over time people were finding that it was also helpful in losing weight. In 2021, it was FDA approved as a designated weight loss agent and has been instrumental in helping patients combat obesity.

How does Semaglutide work?

Semaglutide works by targeting the part of the brain that regulates your appetite. It delays gastric emptying and increases your insulin secretion. The combination sends signals to your brain to decrease your appetite and subsequently your food intake. In other words, you feel full longer! Patients often describe the medication as helping to quiet the “food noise”. As a result, people often have decreased appetite, which ultimately helps them to lose weight.

Who is a good candidate for Semaglutide?

GLP-1 medications can be prescribed for a person whose BMI is 26 or greater. BMI is a calculation based on your height and weight. Exclusions and contraindications include anyone with Type 1 Diabetes, family history of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2. Patient safety is my number one priority, so prior to being approved to begin the medication, I will obtain a thorough history and lab work to ensure you are an appropriate candidate.

Are there any dietary restrictions when taking Semaglutide?

You don’t have to adhere to any specific diet and there are no dietary restrictions. Patients should maintain a healthy, well-balanced diet for optimal success.

So, what happens the first week of using Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a once-weekly medication that is self-injected subcutaneously in your abdomen. The first injection will be performed in office, as I provide education regarding technique and answer any initial questions. The goal is to have limited unfavorable side effects, while also seeing positive results. Therefore, I will start patients at the lowest dose and increase incrementally to minimize any side effects. Therefore, some patients will see early results and lose weight in the first week, while others may see results at higher dosages.

What are the typical side effects to Semaglutide (GLP-1 Medications)?

Nausea is the most common side effect. Anti-nausea medication will be prescribed to patients and should be taken as needed. Potential other side effects include constipation, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort or distention, acid reflux, gastritis, amylase or lipase increase, hypoglycemia, diabetic retinopathy or injection site reaction.

What results can the average person expect from using Semaglutide?

The overall goal is to lose about 1 to 2 pounds per week, however results vary for individuals. 

How long do patients use Semaglutide for weight loss?

The first round of medication lasts 8-10 weeks, depending on a patient’s dosage. Some patients complete one 10-week course, while others remain on the medication for up to a year. The length of treatment varies based on a patient’s goals, rate of weight loss and tolerance of the medication. My goal is to help patients achieve their weight loss goals and incorporate lifestyle changes to feel their best!

Interested in learning about Semaglutide (GPL-1s) for Weight Loss?

Schedule a consultation at the Whole Beauty Institute to learn more about Semaglutide for weight loss and find out if you are a good candidate for this medication. Call 312-751-2112 (Chicago Gold Coast office) or 847-446-7562 (Winnetka’s North Shore office). You can also submit a contact form online.