At Better You RX, your journey to better health is our priority. We understand that managing Type 2 diabetes or achieving weight loss can be challenging. Medications like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus) present innovative treatment options, yet they also come with potential side effects. This guide offers insights into semaglutide’s side effects and practical ways to manage them, ensuring you stay informed and in control of your health.

Introduction to Semaglutide

Semaglutide, available as Ozempic for Type 2 diabetes and Wegovy for weight loss, mimics a naturally occurring hormone to regulate insulin, suppress glucose production, and slow food digestion. Although side effects can occur, understanding and managing them can help you maintain your treatment plan comfortably and effectively. Let’s delve into the 19 semaglutide side effects and coping strategies.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea is a common side effect of semaglutide, particularly at higher doses. To minimize its impact, following your healthcare provider’s dosing instructions is essential, which typically involves a gradual increase over several months. Small, low-fat meals and upright positioning after eating can help manage nausea and vomiting. If accompanied by severe abdominal pain, it could indicate pancreatitis—seek medical attention immediately.

• Diarrhea and Constipation

These gastrointestinal symptoms are also frequent with semaglutide usage. Adopt dietary choices that reduce diarrhea risk, such as limiting fatty, fried foods, and caffeine. If constipated, increase your intake of water, engage in regular exercise, and gradually introduce dietary fiber. Over-the-counter (OTC) laxatives may be recommended if necessary.

• Gas and Bloating

To alleviate gas and bloating, try eating smaller portions and choosing lower-fat options. Gradually incorporate fiber into your diet to prevent exacerbating these symptoms. If discomfort persists, your healthcare provider may suggest an OTC anti-gas remedy like simethicone (Gas-X).

• Stomach Pain

While mild stomach pain is a common issue, it should improve over time. However, severe stomach pain could signify pancreatitis or gallbladder problems and require prompt medical attention.

Less Common Side Effects

• Fatigue

Feeling tired is reported among patients, especially those taking Wegovy. It’s usually temporary as your body adjusts to dietary changes. Ensure sufficient caloric intake to combat fatigue.

• Burping (Ozempic Burp)

Acid reflux symptoms, including the characteristic “Ozempic burp,” might arise. Dietary modifications like limiting greasy and spicy foods or caffeine can help. Antacids may also be recommended for relief.

• Facial Changes (Ozempic Face)

Rapid and significant weight loss can lead to reduced facial fullness, known colloquially as “Ozempic face.” Although not harmful, it can alter appearances. Consult your healthcare provider for treatment options to address these cosmetic concerns.

• Headaches

While not directly caused by semaglutide, headaches can result from side effects like dehydration. Maintain hydration, especially if experiencing other symptoms like diarrhea.

• Rebound Weight Gain

With semaglutide as a long-term treatment, weight is typically maintained. However, discontinuation can result in weight regain. Establishing sustainable lifestyle habits is crucial to avoid this.

Rarer Side Effects

• Low Blood Glucose (Hypoglycemia)

If semaglutide is taken with other diabetes medications, hypoglycemia risk can increase. Regular blood glucose monitoring and adjustments to medication dosages may be needed.

• Vivid Dreams

Though the connection is unclear, vivid or abnormal dreams have been reported. Discuss any sleep disturbances with your healthcare provider to explore causes and solutions.

• Hair Loss

Rapid weight loss can occasionally trigger hair shedding. If hair loss becomes a concern, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

Immediate medical attention may be necessary for severe side effects such as acute pancreatitis or allergic reactions. Always consult your healthcare provider when starting new medications or if you experience unfamiliar symptoms.

Taking Control with BetterYouRX

Here at BetterYouRX, we’re dedicated to ensuring your path to a healthier you is both successful and safe. While managing side effects can be a part of the journey with diabetes or weight loss medications, our extensive resources and expert guidance are always available.

With the most up-to-date knowledge and support from a trusted source, feel empowered in your healthcare decisions. Connect with us at BetterYouRX for more personalized advice and resources to make the most of your treatment plan.

At Better You RX, our main goal is to guide you through the vast landscape of available medications, helping you make informed decisions about your health. Today, we’re focusing on a category of drugs that have gained prominence recently – glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists. These are primarily used to manage Type 2 Diabetes, but they have also shown potential in assisting weight loss.

Understanding GLP-1 Agonists

GLP-1 agonists work by stimulating insulin release, reducing glucose production in the liver, and promoting feelings of fullness. Researchers have noted how these medications balance blood glucose levels and assist with weight loss. With so many options available and more emerging, deciding which one to choose can be daunting. Here we break down nine prominent GLP-1 agonist drugs to guide your choice:

1. Ozempic 

   Ozempic (semaglutide) is a weekly injectable medication intended for adults with Type 2 diabetes. Administered with a multi-dose pre-filled pen, it can be injected at any time, with or without food, and should be taken on the same day each week.

   While not approved explicitly for weight loss, Ozempic can lead to weight loss as a secondary effect. Clinical trials revealed an average weight loss of 8 to 10 lbs.

2.  Rybelsus
   

   Rybelsus is an oral semaglutide medication and the only non-injectable option in the GLP-1 class. It is taken once daily, preferably first thing in the morning with no more than 4 ounces of water, and should be followed by a 30-minute wait before eating or taking other medications to allow efficient absorption.

   A higher dose of oral semaglutide is currently being studied for possible approval for weight loss.

3. Wegovy
   
   Wegovy is a semaglutide injection approved solely for weight loss in adults and adolescents (12 and older). Combining Wegovy with a healthy diet and exercise has yielded significant weight loss results in clinical trials.
4. Trulicity
   Trulicity (dulaglutide) is a weekly injectable used in the management of Type 2 diabetes in adults and children aged 10 and above. It may also have some kidney-related benefits. Some users experienced weight loss as a side effect.

5. Victoza, Saxenda, and Byetta

   Victoza (liraglutide) is a daily injectable for Type 2 diabetes, approved for use in adults and individuals aged 10 and above. Saxenda is the version of liraglutide approved for weight loss.

   Byetta (exenatide), the first Federal Health Authority-approved GLP-1 agonist, treats Type 2 diabetes and tends to cause weight loss as a side effect. It comes with a caveat – Byetta requires twice-daily injections, making it slightly less convenient.

6. Bydureon BCiseBydureon BCise (exenatide) is a longer-acting, once-weekly injectable version of Byetta. This makes it a suitable option for those who find Byetta’s dosing requirements inconvenient.

7.  Mounjaro and Zepbound

Lastly, the novel medications Mounjaro (tirzepatide), closely related to GLP-1 agonists, and Zepbound, approved for chronic weight management, both belong to the new GLP-1/GIP agonist class.

Choosing the Right GLP-1 Agonist

Determining the right GLP-1 agonist for you will depend on your age, treatment goals, existing conditions, preferences, and insurance coverage. It’s important that you work with your healthcare provider to navigate these options and find the one most suited to your needs.

Cost-saving Options

Though all GLP-1 agonist drugs are available only as brand-name products, manufacturer copay savings cards, and patient assistance programs can help offset the costs.

In Conclusion

The options for GLP-1 agonist medications are wide-ranging. Most are approved to manage Type 2 diabetes, while others are for weight loss. Key differences lie in dosing frequency, method of administration, and potential benefits.

Better You RX is committed to providing comprehensive, up-to-date, and reliable health and medication information. Reach out to us today and let us guide you through your health journey for a better you, tomorrow!

At Better Your RX, we believe in empowering you with knowledge about your treatment options. Today, we will discuss Zepbound (tirzepatide), a recently approved prescription medication for weight management. We’ll explore the pricing, insurance coverage, available discounts, and useful tips to afford this treatment.

Overview Of Zepbound

According to CDC data, approximately 40% of U.S. adults 20 and older are dealing with obesity, and nearly 9% have severe obesity, which can lead to severe health conditions like hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, and sleep apnea.

Zepbound, a novel weight-management medication from Eli Lilly, was approved in November 2023. It targets the needs of those struggling with obesity and provides a pharmaceutically supported option for weight management.

What is Zepbound?

Zepbound is an injectable medication that you administer once a week. It’s made up of the same active ingredient as the Type 2 diabetes treatment, Mounjaro—both contain tirzepatide.

Clinical studies have shown that Zepbound helped participants lose an average of 34 lbs to 48 lbs after 165 months (72 weeks). Around a third of people on the maximum dose managed to lose up to 25% or more of their initial body weight.

The Cost of Zepbound

While Zepbound has considerable potential, it comes with a substantial price tag. A 28-day supply of Zepbound has a list price of $1060, making the annual cost $13,800 without any insurance or manufacturer discounts. However, this is approximately 20% less than the price of Novo Nordisk’s weight-loss medication, Wegovy (semaglutide), making Zepbound a more affordable option.

Insurance Coverage for Zepbound

Insurance coverage for Zepbound can be complex and often varies significantly. Many insurers do not cover weight-loss medications due to their high cost, although some may cover Zepbound under particular conditions, such as with prior authorization.

• Medicaid

Coverage of Zepbound under Medicaid depends on the state. If Zepbound isn’t covered by your state’s Medicaid program, it may be possible to submit an appeal through your healthcare provider.

• Medicare

Medicare plans generally don’t cover weight-loss medications. Although, there may be coverage under some retiree health insurance plans.

• Veterans Affairs (VA)

The VA may cover weight-loss medications and management, but it depends on individual benefits and options.

• Tricare

Tricare may cover Zepbound upon a successful coverage review, essentially a prior authorization.

Discounts and Affordability

Eli Lilly offers a savings card program to help manage Zepbound’s high costs.

• For Insured Patients

Patients with insurance that covers Zepbound might be able to get the medication for as low as $25 per prescription through December 31, 2024.

• For Uninsured Patients

Uninsured patients might be eligible to pay $550 per prescription, approximately half the list price.

Unfortunately, those covered by government-sponsored insurance programs, including Medicare and Medicaid, aren’t eligible for this discount scheme.

How Does Zepbound Work?

Zepbound works by triggering the release of insulin in the body, which subsequently slows down the digestion process. This action contributes to a feeling of fullness, helping users to manage their caloric intake and promote weight loss.

Long-term use of medications like Zepbound is often recommended as weight typically returns after cessation of medication.

Bottom Line

Zepbound, a revolutionary weight management medication, proves promising in aiding considerable weight loss. Despite its high cost – around $1060 for 28 days or $13,800 annually – there are ways to navigate these costs depending on your insurance coverage and potential eligibility for manufacturer savings programs.

At Better Your RX, we aim to provide reliable and up-to-date information and support the choices that would lead you to improved health and quality of life. We’re here to accompany you on your journey to wellness. To learn more, get in touch with us today!

At Better Your RX, we endeavor to empower you with a holistic understanding of your treatment options. Thus, we’re offering a comprehensive analysis of why weight loss may stop while taking medications like Ozempic or Wegovy and the subsequent steps to take.

Understanding Ozempic and Wegovy

Ozempic and Wegovy are forms of semaglutide. Ozempic has secured Federal Health Authority approval as a treatment for Type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is Federal Health Authority-approved for chronic weight management. Both medications promote weight loss, but you might stop losing weight at some point, even while still taking these medications.

Their Mechanism of Action

The semaglutide in Ozempic and Wegovy is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist. These medications mimic the effects of your body’s GLP-1, a hormone released when you eat.

Weight loss comes into play due to GLP-1’s actions:

1. It stimulates the pancreas to release insulin
2. It prevents the liver from storing sugar
3. It slows down digestion
4. It interacts with your brain’s appetite center
5. It modulates your hunger hormones

Collectively, these effects keep you feeling full longer and help your body better regulate energy intake, inducing weight loss.

Effectiveness of these Medications

Studies reveal that individuals who used injectable semaglutide (the main ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy) lost approximately 5% of their total body weight after three months and about 10% after six months of consistent usage.

Factors Influencing Weight Loss with Ozempic and Wegovy

While Ozempic and Wegovy can drive weight loss, it may sometimes diminish or halt. Experiencing a weight plateau while using these medications is relatively normal. The following elements significantly impact these drugs’ weight loss effects:

Dosage

The dose of your medication can influence your weight loss outcomes. Some studies suggest that higher doses of these semaglutide medications may yield more significant weight loss. However, discuss potential dose adjustments with your healthcare provider.

Remember, higher doses may also increase the chances of side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, constipation, heartburn (acid reflux), and headaches.

Dosing Schedule and Timing

The weight loss effect of Ozempic or Wegovy may begin a few weeks into treatment. Most patients commence with a lower dose, gradually increasing to the target dose over three months.

Even on lower initial doses, patients often notice altered appetite, eating habits, and food cravings impacting their weight. Nonetheless, the full effect might not be evident until reaching the target dose.

Adherently adhering to the dosing schedule is essential to ensure optimal medication levels in your body. Missing doses, even temporarily, can influence medication efficacy.

Lifestyle Factors: Diet and Exercise

Although there’s no dietary restriction while taking semaglutide medications, certain foods can inhibit optimal medication effects and potentially trigger side effects:

• Fried foods
• High-fat foods
• Sugary drinks
• Ultra-processed foods
• Alcohol

Semaglutide, a healthy diet, and regular moderate exercise can offer more significant effects.

What Happens When You Stop Taking Ozempic or Wegovy?

The weight loss achieved through Ozempic or Wegovy isn’t permanent; stopping the medication might lead to weight gain eventually. Studies reveal that people regained some of their lost weight within a year of stopping these medications.

However, not all the weight is regained. Most individuals still weighed less than their initial weight. One study showed that half of the participants who took semaglutide maintained some weight loss even two years after stopping the medication.

Final Reflection

Achieving weight loss is a collaborative and multi-faceted journey. The intriguing biological action of these medications at different doses, combined with a disciplined lifestyle, bring about weight changes.

However, patience is fundamental. Weight loss with Ozempic or Wegovy might stall at times, or weight might even creep back after you stop the medication. These are normal responses and are part of the journey.

Remember: Balancing medication with healthy lifestyle habits goes a long way toward maintaining weight loss. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medication routine.

Having expert advice every step of your health journey is critical. At Better Your RX, we endeavor to provide comprehensive resources and reliable expertise when you need them most. To learn more, contact us today.

Are you considering Semaglutide (Wegovy) as a solution for chronic weight management? Here at Better Your RX, we believe understanding your medications is key to taking control of your health journey. So, let’s delve into the composition of Wegovy and discuss its active and inactive ingredients, how it’s made, and the possibility of allergic reactions.

What Is Wegovy And What Is It Made Of?

Wegovy (semaglutide) is an injectable medication manufactured for chronic weight management. The key ingredient in Wegovy is semaglutide, synthesized using the fascinating mechanism of recombinant DNA technology.

Active Ingredient: Semaglutide

Semaglutide is the active ingredient in Wegovy, known to mimic the effects of a gut hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), hence, it’s described as a GLP-1 agonist. Semaglutide is also present in a few other medications, including Ozempic and Rybelsus.

Each Wegovy pen may contain variable amounts of semaglutide, depending on the dose encapsulated within:

• 0.25 mg (identified by a light-green pen)
• 0.5 mg (noted by a pink pen)
• 1 mg (distinguished by a brown pen)
• 1.7 mg (marked by a blue pen)
• 2.4 mg (symbolized with a black pen)

Inactive ingredients

The effectiveness of Wegovy isn’t solely due to its active ingredient—its accompanying inactive ingredients also play crucial roles. These contribute to the potency of Wegovy and facilitate the transportation of the active ingredient. They include:

• Sodium phosphate dibasic dihydrate (serving as a buffer agent)
• Sodium chloride (to provide tonicity)
• Water (acting as the vehicle for injection)
• Either hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide to adjust acidity levels

The liquid volume in the 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, and 1 mg Wegovy pens is 0.5 mL, and those within the 1.7 mg and 2.4 mg pens hold about 0.75 mL of liquid.

Preservatives in Wegovy: A Common Query

Unlike many medications, Wegovy does not contain any preservatives. How does it stay effective, you might ask? The answer lies in its single-use design. As each injection pen of Wegovy is meant for one usage, there is no need for preservatives to maintain its potency over multiple usages.

Allergic Reactions: What You Should Know

It’s essential to mention that it’s possible to experience an allergic reaction, including severe reactions like anaphylaxis, to an ingredient in Wegovy. It’s also uncertain if a reaction to a different GLP-1 agonist could translate to an adverse reaction to Wegovy.

To maintain your health and safety, always ensure that your healthcare team is aware of any allergies you may have before starting a new medication, including Wegovy.

The Making of Wegovy

Wegovy’s key ingredient, semaglutide, is classified as a peptide. Peptides are chains of forty or fewer amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. Some peptides are synthesized using chemicals, but in semaglutide’s case, it’s produced using recombinant DNA technology.

The process involves encoding DNA with the instructions to produce the peptide. This encoded DNA is then introduced into yeast cells where the peptide copies are generated. These peptides are then extracted, modified, and finally purified for the medicine formulation.

Semaglutide is very similar to natural GLP-1 located in your body, with a few crucial changes that make it last longer in your system.

Conclusion

At Better Your RX, we encourage informed decision-making regarding medication. Understanding your medication’s ingredients and how it’s produced can offer insight into why and how it works. We’re here to lend our expertise when needed, and empower you on your journey to better health.

Weight management has been revolutionized by Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) and Ozempic (Semaglutide). These two medications come from the same class, but they have differences that define how they fit into the health needs of various individuals. Let’s delve deeper into the offerings of Mounjaro and how it justifies its moniker as “The New Ozempic.”

Efficacy and Approved Uses

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) and Ozempic (Semaglutide) belong to the Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists class. Their mode of action involves reducing blood sugar levels, making them ideal treatments for controlling diabetes. Yet, their significant side benefit is fostering weight loss, making them potential game-changers in weight management.

Ozempic has held its position as a reliable diabetes therapy that also aids in weight loss. It has proven itself as a steadfast option, but Mounjaro has taken noticeable strides in bridging the gap. The latter was designed and targeted at weight loss, reaching or potentially exceeding the efficacy of Ozempic. Thus, Mounjaro has propelled itself to a position of consideration in weight management.

Affordability and Availability

While the efficacy of a medical treatment is critical, affordability and availability are equally important considerations for patient adherence to treatment. Ozempic, despite being a practical solution, may impose a financial burden due to its steep cost. Mounjaro works to disrupt this trend, presenting itself as a more cost-effective alternative.

Even though Mounjaro is comparatively newer on the market, it has the advantage of not getting intertwined in significant supply chain issues. This ease of acquisition ensures patients can carry out their treatment regimen without unpredictable interruptions.

Side Effects

It’s essential to understand that every medication comes with potential side effects, and being aware of these can help patients better manage their treatment journey. 

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) and Ozempic (Semaglutide) both exhibit side effects commonly found in GLP-1 receptor agonists, with the primary side effects being mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The side effects of both drugs include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Heartburn 
• Stomach Pain

It’s important to highlight that the risks associated with these side effects could vary depending on an individual’s health status.  By consulting with healthcare professionals, patients can develop a personalized approach to manage these side effects, resulting in a more balanced and tailored treatment experience.

How to Secure a Prescription for Mounjaro

Before starting Mounjaro, patients must obtain a prescription from a healthcare professional. This process involves a comprehensive appraisal of your health status, history, and weight loss goals.

Your healthcare provider will evaluate whether Mounjaro is the right fit for your needs before giving a nod for your prescription. This step ensures that Mounjaro is effectively tailored to fit into your health and wellness journey.

Cost and How to Buy Mounjaro

Making an informed decision in weight loss solutions demands understanding costs and realizing how to acquire such medications. With Mounjaro, despite an upfront price tag of $1,227.00 compared to Ozempic’s $459.99, the true broad-spectrum costs emerge when looking at long-term health benefits and consistent outcomes.

Purchasing Mounjaro doesn’t draw its benefits from just handling glucose and controlling weight. It’s also about improvements in your physical wellness, the prevention of potential complications of obesity, and the reduction of potential health-related costs in the future. Think of Mounjaro not as an expense but as a strategic investment in your health portfolio.

Whether you wish to know how to buy Mounjaro online from Canada, how to buy Mounjaro without insurance or Medicare, or just how to buy Mounjaro in general – BetterYouRx is at your service, with the opportunity to buy Mounjaro online from Canada.

Comparison: Mounjaro vs Ozempic and Saxenda

When lined up for comparison against contenders like Ozempic and Saxenda, Mounjaro holds its ground quite convincingly. Despite having similar modes of action concerning weight loss, Mounjaro outshines with its affordability and exciting outcomes demonstrated in its clinical trials.

Mounjaro: The New Ozempic?

The key differentiator, however, is Mounjaro’s weight loss approval advantage. Unlike most GLP-1 receptor agonists, Mounjaro targets itself primarily for weight loss. This focus places it on a distinctive pedestal and strengthens its status in the weight management industry.

Conclusion

As the world of weight management continually evolves, Mounjaro and Ozempic stand tall as practical treatment options. Yet, with its primary focus on weight loss, better affordability, and consistent availability, Mounjaro carves a niche for itself as the new Ozempic.

However, choosing between these health-improving treatments should always be made in consultation with a healthcare professional and considering an individual’s unique health needs and goals.

Better You Rx, your trusted online pharmacy, provides the ease of buying Mounjaro online and offers comprehensive information to aid your health transformation journey.