When considering Semaglutide injections for weight loss, there are several qualifications to be aware of. This medication can be an effective tool for those struggling with obesity or excess weight, but it is essential to ensure you meet the necessary criteria for safety and effectiveness. Genesis Lifestyle Medicine offers comprehensive assessments to determine your eligibility for Semaglutide injections. Here are the key qualifications to consider:

You must have a BMI of 30 or higher or a BMI of 27 or higher with related health conditions

Semaglutide injections are ideally meant for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher or a BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related health conditions. BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight, and a BMI of 30 or above is classified as obese. Furthermore, individuals with a BMI of 27 or higher who struggle with hypertension or type 2 diabetes are also good candidates. This criterion ensures that the treatment is targeted at individuals who need significant weight loss to improve their overall health. 

You must be at least 18 years old

Semaglutide for weight loss is approved for use in adults only. You must be at least 18 years old to qualify for this treatment. This ensures the medication is administered to individuals who have reached full physical maturity and can better handle the effects of the medication.

You must commit to regular medical appointments

A crucial aspect of qualifying for Semaglutide injections is the willingness and ability to commit to regular medical appointments. These are necessary for monitoring your progress, adjusting dosages if needed, and managing any potential side effects. Consistent follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential for the success of your weight loss journey with Semaglutide.

You may not have achieved significant weight loss through lifestyle changes

Semaglutide is generally prescribed for individuals who may not have achieved significant weight loss through traditional lifestyle changes alone, such as diet and exercise. If you have been diligently working on losing weight through these methods without satisfactory results, you may be a good candidate for Semaglutide. This medication is intended to be used as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

You must not have certain pre-existing conditions

Certain pre-existing health conditions may disqualify you from using Semaglutide for weight loss. These conditions include:

• Heart disease: Individuals with a history of heart disease or certain heart conditions may be at increased risk when using Semaglutide.
• High blood pressure: Uncontrolled high blood pressure can be a contraindication for weight loss treatment using GLP-1 receptor agonists like Semaglutide.
• Kidney problems: Individuals with severe kidney issues may not be suitable candidates.

You must not be pregnant or breastfeeding

Semaglutide is not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should discuss alternative weight loss methods with your healthcare provider. The safety of Semaglutide in these situations has not been established, so you should explore other options or wait until after childbirth.

You must not have a history of thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2

A history of thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) disqualifies you from using Semaglutide. This medication has been associated with an increased risk of thyroid tumors in animal studies, and while this has not been conclusively proven in humans, the risk warrants caution. If you have a family history of these conditions, it's essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider and explore alternative weight loss options.

You must have realistic expectations and be prepared for lifestyle changes

Finally, having realistic expectations and being prepared to make necessary lifestyle changes are vital qualifications for Semaglutide treatment. While the medication can significantly aid in weight loss, it is not a magic solution. Success with Semaglutide requires a commitment to a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and adherence to your healthcare provider's guidance. Before initiating Semaglutide treatment, you should be prepared for these lifestyle changes:

• Follow a reduced-calorie diet: Focus on nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains while reducing the intake of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods.
• Increase physical activity: Incorporate at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of high-intensity exercise per week to burn more calories.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support metabolism and overall health. This also helps you avoid overeating.
• Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to help regulate hunger hormones and improve energy levels, which can support overall weight loss.
• Manage stress: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga to curb appetite and prevent emotional eating.
• Track your progress: Keep a journal of your food intake, physical activity, and weight loss progress to stay accountable and make necessary adjustments.
• Follow medical advice: Adhere to your healthcare provider’s recommendations and attend all scheduled appointments for monitoring and support.

Semaglutide injections can be an effective weight-loss tool for qualified individuals. Ensuring you meet the necessary qualifications and understand the contraindications will help you make an informed decision about this treatment. Schedule a consultation at Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we perform thorough evaluations to determine your candidacy for Semaglutide and offer personalized recommendations to help you achieve and maintain your ideal weight.