Semaglutide for Weight Loss in Orlando: Everything You Need to Know

The uphill battle of weight loss can be exhausting. The endless calorie counting, gym memberships, and “miracle” diets have left you frustrated.

You’re not alone – and you’re certainly not weak.

Millions of people put in the effort day after day, only to find that progress is painfully slow or that results slip away despite their best intentions.

It’s only recently that researchers discovered that weight regulation is far more complex than just “eat less, move more.” Hormones, appetite signals, and even brain chemistry can work against you. That’s why medications like semaglutide have caught so much attention.

Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, semaglutide is now being used to help people achieve significant, lasting weight loss. But how does it work, and is it right for you?

To help you understand what it is and how it works, let’s take a closer look at how you can use semaglutide for weight loss in Orlando.

What Is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a medication that mimics a naturally occurring hormone in your body called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). This hormone is released from your gut after eating and plays a big role in controlling appetite, slowing digestion, and helping your body release insulin.

But what is semaglutide used for now?

Semaglutide was first approved by the FDA in 2017 under the brand name Ozempic for treating type 2 diabetes. Later, after studies showed it could lead to substantial weight loss, another version was approved in 2021 for chronic weight management under the brand name Wegovy.

Who Is Semaglutide For?

Semaglutide is typically well-tolerated and is generally prescribed for:

• Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher (obesity).
• Adults with a BMI of 27 or higher (overweight) who also have at least one weight-related condition, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.
• People who have tried diet and exercise alone without significant or lasting success.

However, semaglutide may not be the ideal drug for everyone. It’s not recommended for:

• People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or certain endocrine conditions.
• Those with a history of pancreatitis.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.

It’s best to consult your medical practitioner before starting any new drug, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.

How Is Semaglutide Injection Administered?

Source: Freepik

Semaglutide is typically given as a once-weekly injection under the skin (subcutaneous). The needle is very small, and most people find it relatively painless. You can administer the injection by yourself (just like insulin) in areas like your stomach, thigh, or upper arm.

The dose starts low and is gradually increased over several weeks. This step-up approach allows the body to adjust to the drug and minimizes side effects that sometimes appear in the initial stages of treatment as the body adjusts. The most frequent ones are gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or constipation.

How Does Semaglutide Help With Weight Loss?

Semaglutide supports weight loss through several mechanisms. It helps:

• Suppress Appetite – By acting on areas of the brain that regulate hunger, semaglutide reduces the feeling of “gnawing hunger” and cravings between meals.
• Slow Down Stomach Emptying – Food stays in your stomach longer, helping you feel full after smaller portions.
• Stabilize Blood Sugar – By improving how your body handles glucose, semaglutide reduces the spikes and crashes that often lead to overeating.
• Influence Food Preferences – Some people find they naturally gravitate toward healthier foods or lose interest in high-calorie snacks.

Is There Proof that Semaglutide Works?

Over the years, there have been several clinical trials conducted to test the efficacy and safety of semaglutide. We can take a look at a couple.

Nature Medicine reported the following findings about a STEP 5 trial where 2.4 mg of semaglutide was administered subcutaneously once a week. The change in body weight from baseline to week 104 was -15.2% with semaglutide and -2.6% with placebo.

Figure: Comparison of body weight parameters for semaglutide versus placebo

In another trial uploaded to the National Library of Medicine, 1961 adults participated in a 68-week trial. The results showed that the mean change in body weight from baseline to week 68 was -14.9% in the semaglutide group and -2.4% with placebo.

While results can vary, research is promising. Weight loss tends to be gradual, with the most noticeable changes occurring after the first few months. Additionally, many people also report improvements in energy, mobility, blood sugar control, and even sleep quality.

However, semaglutide is not a magic cure. A healthy lifestyle that supports body weight reduction ensures positive results.

How Long Does Semaglutide Take to Work?

For some people, semaglutide is a long-term treatment — much like medication for high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. In other words, you need to keep taking the medication to maintain results. But others may simply need to use semaglutide for a set period in order for them to reach a healthier weight, after which they can successfully transition to other strategies.

But lifestyle still matters.

While semaglutide can make weight loss dramatically easier, it’s not a replacement for healthy eating and physical activity. The best results come from combining the medication with:

• A balanced, nutrient-rich diet
• Regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes per week)
• Adequate sleep
• Stress management

Semaglutide can manifest great results, but a healthy lifestyle can help you achieve better outcomes. What’s more, weight loss can feel more achievable because you’re not constantly fighting hunger.

How Much Can Semaglutide Cost

Source: Freepik

The cost of semaglutide can vary widely depending on which type of semaglutide you use, the company you buy from, and whether your insurance provider covers the cost.

Insurance coverage varies widely depending on the patient’s condition and the insurance policy; some plans cover it for diabetes but not for weight loss. So, it’s best to check with your provider to see what’s included in your plan. Moreover, there are now compounded versions and savings programs that make semaglutide affordable.

Where to Get Semaglutide for Weight Loss in Orlando

If you’re considering semaglutide for weight loss, the safest approach is to consult a licensed healthcare provider who can evaluate your health, discuss potential benefits and risks, and determine if it’s suitable for you. Your doctor may prescribe it directly or refer you to a weight management clinic. In some cases, telehealth services can also provide consultations and arrange prescriptions.

The Bottom Line

If you’ve been stuck in a cycle of losing weight, semaglutide might just be the solution you’re looking for. It works by changing the way your brain and body respond to food, making it easier to eat less without feeling constantly deprived. But it’s not a standalone fix. You’ll still need healthy habits and the guidance of a healthcare professional to take you to the finish line.

This is where we come in.

At Ayanna Essential Healthcare, we provide personalized weight management solutions and healthcare services tailored to meet your needs. From virtual consultations to affordable, quality care, you always come first.

Now you don’t need to worry about where to get semaglutide. Get in touch with us for more information about semaglutide for weight loss in Orlando.