GLP-1s

GLP-1s services offered in Aventura, FL

Are you having a difficult time reaching your target body weight? You’re not alone. In fact, the majority of adults in the United States carry excess body weight. At Optimal Health Miami in Aventura, Florida, board-certified urologist Marc Gittelman, MD, FACS, prescribes a proprietary blend of vitamins and or amino acids along with the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonist medications to help you reach your body weight goals. Schedule an evaluation at Optimal Health Miami by calling the office or requesting a visit online today.

What are GLP-1 agonists?

GLP-1s are medications designed to reduce blood sugar in people with Type 2 diabetes. They’ve also been shown to aid in weight loss. GLP-1s are injectable medications you can administer yourself from the comfort of your home. The FDA approved the first GLP-1 agonist in 2005.

Semaglutide is a common GLP-1 agonist available at Optimal Health Miami. Tirzepatide is a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist that’s similar to semaglutide. Both of these medications are once-weekly injectables.

How do GP1-s work?

GLP-1 is a hormone produced by the small intestine with multiple roles, including triggering insulin release from the pancreas to reduce blood sugar, blocking glucagon secretion, slowing stomach emptying, and boosting satiety.

GLP-1 agonists mimic the GLP-1 hormone by binding to GLP receptors and triggering the same effects.

In people with diabetes, GLP-1s reduce blood sugar to improve diabetes management with a lower risk of complications. In overweight individuals, GLP-1 agonists make weight loss easier by diminishing appetite and food intake.

GLP-1s are designed for use in combination with a healthy lifestyle as part of a comprehensive medical weight loss program.

Are GLP-1 agonists right for me?

Dr. Gittelman determines if you’re a candidate for the proprietary blend of vitamins, amino acids, and GLP-1s by discussing your medical history, weighing you, determining your body mass index (BMI), checking your vital signs, and completing a physical exam.

He often orders blood testing or other diagnostic tests, including whole-body DEXA scanning, to assess your body composition and bone density.

If you're overweight but haven’t had success with other weight loss strategies, GLP-1s may be for you. However, they’re not appropriate for pregnant or breastfeeding women, women trying to become pregnant, and people with a history of pancreatitis, certain cancers, some gastrointestinal conditions, or certain kidney diseases.

What should I expect when using GLP-1s?

Dr. Gittelman explains how to use GLP-1 agonist injections and demonstrates how to inject them once weekly at home. Inject the medicine in fatty tissues under the skin in your outer thighs, upper buttocks, belly, or back of your arm. Contact Optimal Health Miami with questions or if you experience side effects like nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, or headaches.

Follow up with Dr. Gittelman, eat nutritious foods, stay active, get plenty of sleep, and minimize stress to achieve the best outcome.

Schedule a weight loss evaluation today at Optimal Health Miami by phone or request one online to determine if GLP-1s are right for you.