How to Get Semaglutide for Weight Loss: A Step-by-Step Guide

Semaglutide, an FDA-approved medication for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management, has gained popularity for its effectiveness in supporting weight loss. If you are considering semaglutide as part of your weight management plan, it's important to understand the appropriate steps to obtain it safely under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

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Key Takeaways

• Consult with a healthcare provider: Schedule a consultation to determine if semaglutide is appropriate for your weight loss goals.
• Obtain a prescription: If approved, your healthcare provider will prescribe semaglutide, either in injectable or oral form.
• Check insurance coverage: Verify with your insurance provider to see if semaglutide is covered under your plan and what your out-of-pocket costs might be.
• Explore discount programs: Look for manufacturer coupons, savings cards, or patient assistance programs to reduce the cost.
• Consider generic or compounded options: Investigate less expensive semaglutide alternatives like compounded semaglutide from specialty pharmacies.
• Purchase through a licensed telehealth provider: Some online platforms, like Eden, may offer semaglutide at a lower cost. It is essential to ensure these services are provided by licensed healthcare providers and that medications are sourced from FDA-approved pharmacies.
• Follow the prescribed regimen: Adhere to the dosing schedule provided by your healthcare provider for optimal results.

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What Is Semaglutide And How Does It Help With Weight Loss?

Semaglutide is a drug that falls into the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist category [3]. It was initially created to treat Type 2 diabetes, and it ended up also helping people lose weight [4]. Semaglutide acts like the GLP-1 hormone, which the gut makes when you eat [4].

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Semaglutide's main way of working involves turning on GLP-1 receptors in different parts of the body, such as the gut, pancreas, and brain [3]. This activation has an impact on several things that help with losing weight:

1. Reduced hunger: Semaglutide works in the brain to manage appetite, which helps people feel less hungry [4].

2. Feeling of Being Full: The drug makes people feel fuller, so they're happy with less food [4].

3. Slower stomach emptying: Semaglutide slows down how fast food leaves the stomach, which helps people feel full for longer [3].

4. Better insulin release: It prompts the pancreas to make more insulin, which helps control blood sugar levels [4].

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Clinical trials have shown that semaglutide has a significant impact on weight loss. One study found that people taking a 2.4 mg weekly dose of semaglutide lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight over 68 weeks. In contrast, the placebo group lost 2.4% [5]. 

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Another study discovered that combining semaglutide with lifestyle changes led to substantial and long-lasting weight loss in overweight or obese individuals [5]. If you're starting semaglutide, understanding the proper dosing and usage guidelines is essential to ensure optimal effectiveness and safety.

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Prescription Requirements For Semaglutide

To obtain semaglutide for weight loss, you must meet specific eligibility criteria and undergo a thorough evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. The FDA suggests semaglutide for people with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or more, or a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or higher with at least one weight-related health issue like high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol [4].

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To get semaglutide injections, patients need to meet the requirements for a medical weight loss plan that a doctor approves. This means being overweight with at least one health problem linked to weight or falling into the obese category [6].

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Healthcare providers will assess your medical history, current health status, and any potential contraindications before prescribing semaglutide. This evaluation ensures that semaglutide is both safe and appropriate for your weight management needs. Patients must tell their doctor about any allergies, personal and family health history, and all medications and supplements they take [7]. People should not use semaglutide if they have had medullary thyroid cancer, gallbladder problems, pancreatitis, or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2) [4].

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To get a semaglutide prescription, you need to:

1. Talk to a doctor

2. Get a health check-up

3. Talk about weight loss goals and possible risks

4. See if you qualify based on BMI and health issues

5. Get a prescription if you're eligible

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Patients should be ready to take part in a full weight loss program. This includes a balanced diet with fewer calories and an exercise plan that a specialist recommends [6]. It's crucial to know all the possible risks and side effects of semaglutide before you start using it.

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Where to Get Semaglutide: Online vs In-Person Options

As more people want weight-loss drugs like Wegovy^®, many look to where they can buy semaglutide online. You can get semaglutide prescriptions online through telehealth services, making it possible for you to connect with qualified healthcare providers who, if appropriate, can write a prescription for the drug. Then, you can get semaglutide online. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the compounded version is safe, effective, and sourced from a reputable source like Eden.

People who want to use semaglutide to lose weight can choose between two main options: online telehealth services and in-person healthcare providers. Both ways have their upsides and possible downsides.

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Online telehealth services provide easy access and convenience. They often give quick advice and can send medicines straight to patients' homes. Yet, the online world of weight loss drugs has been called “hard to figure out” [8]. Some telehealth companies might ask for just a short online chat or blood test, while others could give out drugs with little or no health check [8].

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In-person healthcare providers provide more complete care and can keep a closer eye on patients' overall health. Still, some patients might not feel at ease talking about weight issues with their primary care doctors [9].

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Eden (tryeden.com) is an online platform that connects patients with licensed healthcare providers for weight loss treatments, including semaglutide. Eden wants to give people easy and safe ways to access medical advice and weight loss treatments backed by science [10]. Eden connects people with qualified healthcare professionals who can prescribe different types of semaglutide, including injectables and oral forms, to improve metabolic health [10].

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Getting started with compounded semaglutide requires understanding the dosage and potential side effects and consulting with a healthcare provider to ensure it's the right option for your weight loss journey. Eden is custom-tailored care linking patients with doctors who specialize in metabolic health [11] and takes pride in being open about its services and costs [11]. 

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Steps To Get Semaglutide For Weight Loss

Step #1: Talk To A Doctor

To start getting semaglutide for weight loss, you need to talk to a doctor. This could be your primary doctor or a hormone specialist [12]. These doctors can check your health, understand what you want to achieve with your weight, and decide if semaglutide is right for you [12]. Online doctor visits have made it easier to talk to doctors who are qualified to help people manage their weight [12].

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Step #2: Do a Health Check

When you visit your doctor, make sure you're ready to talk about your health history, the current list of medicines you take, and what you want to achieve with weight loss [12]. Your doctor will do a complete health check, which might include blood tests to look at your sugar levels and how well your liver works [13]. This check helps make sure that semaglutide is safe for you to use and will work well for your specific situation [13].

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Step #3: Get a Prescription

If your doctor decides semaglutide fits your needs, they'll write you a prescription [13]. Semaglutide is available through an injection, oral tablets, or an oral sublingual suspension, and you'll have clear steps to administer the medicine [13].

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Step #4: Stick to the Treatment Plan

After getting your prescription, stick to the treatment plan your doctor laid out. You'll start with a low dose of semaglutide, about 0.25 mg, which will go up over time [14]. It's crucial to keep seeing your doctor. This helps them track how you're doing and address any side effects that might come up [14]. To get the best results, you should use semaglutide, eat fewer calories, and become more active [14].

Without insurance, semaglutide can cost a lot. Prices can change based on the pharmacy and where you live, but the cost of semaglutide without insurance can still be expensive. Some online coupons or discount semaglutide programs can help cut the cost of semaglutide treatments.

Many people have lost a lot of weight using this drug. These semaglutide success stories show how semaglutide can help people shed a lot of weight and boost their overall health. Always talk to your doctor to figure out the best way to treat your condition.

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What To Expect When Starting Semaglutide For Weight Loss

It's essential to understand semaglutide dosages and guidelines. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully and report any side effects or concerns you may experience while using semaglutide.

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People who begin semaglutide treatment to lose weight should manage their expectations. Most people don't see significant weight loss in the first 1-2 weeks. Instead, semaglutide's effects tend to build up over the first few months [15].

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In the first week, you might notice:

1. A small weight loss of 2-5 lbs as the medicine starts to work

2. Less hunger is one of the first clear signs

3. Possible stomach issues, like feeling sick, as your body gets used to the medication [15]

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The first drop in weight happens because of water loss, changes in hunger and eating patterns, and potential stomach troubles, not because you're losing a significant amount of fat [15].

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One of the most effective semaglutide tips for weight loss is to pair the medication with a balanced diet and regular exercise to enhance results. Additionally, maintaining consistent dosing and tracking your progress is crucial for achieving and sustaining your weight loss goals.

Patients should get ready for their appointments by sticking to any medication and food guidelines their doctor suggests [16]. When talking with the doctor, it's key to raise questions and talk about any worries about the treatment, such as how it might mix with other drugs or health issues [16].

Individuals with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2, or severe hypersensitivity to the drug are people who should not take semaglutide. Again, always talk to your doctor to determine the best way to treat your condition.

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Semaglutide Cost And Insurance Coverage

In order to get approved for semaglutide, you should meet some minimum requirements:

1. To lose weight (Wegovy^®): A BMI of 30 or above, or a BMI of 27 or above with at least one health problem related to weight

2. To manage diabetes (Ozempic^®, SubMagna™, and Rybelsus^®): A diagnosis of type 2 diabetes

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Insurance coverage and available discounts have an impact on the cost of semaglutide. People without insurance might pay between $804 and $950 for a 30-day supply of semaglutide [17]. Those with insurance could see their monthly costs drop to as little as $25 [17].

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The amount of insurance coverage for semaglutide varies based on the specific plan and might need prior approval. Some plans cover part or all of the medication, with reimbursement ranging from $25 to $1000 monthly [17]. Patients should contact their insurance provider to get details on coverage.

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If you're looking for tips on how to get semaglutide cheap, consider exploring manufacturer discount programs and patient assistance initiatives, or consult with your healthcare provider about potential alternatives. It is important to obtain semaglutide from FDA-approved sources to ensure safety and effectiveness. People without insurance or those facing high costs have several options:

1. Manufacturer savings programs: Novo Nordisk has a savings card for Ozempic^®. This card can help eligible patients save money. It offers up to $150 off a one-month supply, $300 off a two-month supply, or $450 off a three-month supply [18].

2. Patient assistance programs: The Novo Nordisk Patient Assistance Program might give free medication to some people. To get this, you need to meet certain income requirements [17].

3. Discount websites: Sites like GoodRx give out coupons and look at prices across different pharmacies to cut costs [18].

4. Medicare and Medicaid: These programs might cover semaglutide, but coverage changes [17].

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Semaglutide vs Other Weight Loss Medications

Semaglutide, sold as Ozempic^®, Wegovy^®, SubMagna™, and Rybelsus^®, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist medication [19]. It has an impact on the body by copying the GLP-1 hormone, which leads to appetite reduction and slower stomach emptying [19]. Other common prescription drugs to lose weight include:

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1. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro^®, Zepbound^®): Controls blood sugar, reduces hunger, and slows down digestion [19].

2. Liraglutide (Saxenda^®): This GLP-1 receptor agonist also decreases appetite and slows stomach emptying [19].

3. Metformin: Doctors prescribe it to manage diabetes, but it can help with weight loss by keeping blood sugar in check [19].

4. Topiramate (Topamax^®): This anticonvulsant cuts appetite and might affect the brain's reward system [19].

5. Contrave^® (bupropion and naltrexone): This drug works on the brain to manage appetite and lessen cravings [19].

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Doctors might choose semaglutide when:

1. People want to lose a lot of weight: Studies show semaglutide helps people shed more pounds on average than other drugs like liraglutide [20].

2. Heart health improvements are necessary: Semaglutide has an impact on lowering the chances of heart attacks and strokes in adults who are overweight or obese [2].

3. Other health issues exist: Research keeps looking into how semaglutide might help with things like PCOS, addiction, Alzheimer's disease, and sleep apnea [2].

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Final Thoughts On Semaglutide

Semaglutide influences appetite control, slows down digestion, and leads to weight loss, making it a medical choice for many people dealing with obesity. Besides helping with weight loss, semaglutide has the potential to boost heart health and tackle various issues linked to obesity. When used as part of a full weight control plan, this medicine can be a strong tool to help people reach their health goals.

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If you're considering using semaglutide, you should talk to your doctor to see if it's right for you. Knowing how to get the medication, from needing a prescription to checking your insurance, can help you on your weight loss journey. Semaglutide has shown great results, but remember it works best when you also eat a healthy diet and exercise.

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Disclaimers:

• General Disclaimer: The information provided is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, including semaglutide."
• Off-Label Use Disclaimer: "Some information discussed may involve off-label use of semaglutide. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine if semaglutide is appropriate for your specific condition.

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FAQ

1. How do I know if I’m a candidate for semaglutide? 

The criteria for semaglutide use vary. Wegovy^® is approved to help people lose weight, and it requires a BMI of 30 or more, or 27+, with at least one weight-linked health issue, like high blood pressure [21]. Ozempic^® and Rybelsus^® aim to treat people with type 2 diabetes [21]. Doctors might prescribe semaglutide in other cases, too, but insurance coverage can differ [21]. To decide if semaglutide suits and is safe for someone, doctors need to do a full health check, looking at their medical history and current medications [22].

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2. ‍What are the initial steps to start using semaglutide?

‍For adults, the starting dosage of semaglutide is 0.25 milligrams (mg), administered via subcutaneous injection once a week for the first four weeks. Depending on your response, your doctor may increase the dosage every four weeks, but it typically does not exceed 2.4 mg per week.

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3. Is it possible to purchase semaglutide without a prescription?

Semaglutide cannot be bought over the counter; it requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

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References

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1. Southwest Family Medical, Taylor, MD. The Pros and Cons of Semaglutide for Weight Loss - Dr. Taylor. swfamilymedical.com. Published September 7, 2023. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://swfamilymedical.com/pros-cons-semaglutide-for-weight-loss/

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2. Buss Preszler L. Health benefits of semaglutide — Beyond weight loss - Mayo Clinic Press. Mayo Clinic Press. Published July 2, 2024. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/living-well/health-benefits-of-semaglutide-beyond-weight-loss/

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3. Kommu S, Whitfield P. Semaglutide. PubMed. Published February 11, 2024. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK603723/

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4. UCLA Health. Semaglutide, also known as Ozempic, for weight loss - what you need to know. uclahealth.org. Published January 12, 2023. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/semaglutide-weight-loss-what-you-need-know

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5. Alorfi NM, Algarni AS. Clinical Impact of Semaglutide, a Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist, on Obesity Management: A Review. Clinical Pharmacology: Advances and Applications. 2022;Volume 14:61-67. doi: https://doi.org/10.2147/cpaa.s374741

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6. Magic Valley Medicine. Who Qualifies for Semaglutide Injections for Weight Loss? Magic Valley Medicine . Published 2024. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://www.magicvalleymedicine.com/twin-falls-semaglutide

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7. Sesame Care. semaglutide. sesamecare.com. Published 2024. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://sesamecare.com/medication/semaglutide

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8. Wollen R. Risks You Should Avoid When Buying Injectable Semaglutide For Weight Loss Online. EverydayHealth.com. Published December 14, 2023. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://www.everydayhealth.com/weight/risks-you-should-avoid-when-buying-weight-loss-drugs-online/

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9. Lupkin S. Thinking of buying Wegovy online. Here’s what to know about compounding pharmacies. NPR. Published June 7, 2024. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2024/06/07/g-s1-3331/wegovy-online-compound-semaglutide-compounding-pharmacies

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10. Eden. Reviews | Authentic reviews from Eden members. Tryeden.com. Published 2021. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://www.tryeden.com/reviews?srsltid=AfmBOopW3bGON2kNUqcBq2toNbBywyXdHcBn7D2gVK2QfbceHHBcs5AN

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11. Trust Pilot. Eden is rated “Excellent” with 4.3 / 5 on Trustpilot. Trustpilot. Published August 15, 2024. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://www.trustpilot.com/review/tryeden.com

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12. Heally. Step-by-Step Guide to Getting A Semaglutide Prescription. Heally. Published December 9, 2023. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://getheally.com/patients/news/finding-a-healthcare-provider-semaglutide-copy

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13. Laser Skin Med Spa. How to Get Started with Semaglutide: A Step-by-Step Guide. LaserSkin MedSpa. Published July 12, 2024. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://laserskinmedspa.com/weight-management/how-to-get-started-with-semaglutide-a-step-by-step-guide/

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14. Richland, MD B. Semaglutide Weight Loss Comprehensive Guide for Beginners | Dr. Brandon Richland, MD. Dr. Brandon Richland, MD. Published September 7, 2023. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://www.richlandmd.com/cosmetic/semaglutide-weight-loss/

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15. Ethos Aesthetics and Wellness. What to Expect with Semaglutide Weight Loss in the First Week. Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness. Published March 4, 2024. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://myethosspa.com/semaglutide-weight-loss-first-week/

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16. Beauty Lush Med Spa. How To Prepare For Your Semaglutide Treatment Appointment At Beauty Lush Medspa – Beauty Lush MedSpa. Beautylushmedspa.com. Published 2023. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://beautylushmedspa.com/how-to-prepare-for-your-semaglutide-treatment/

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17. Richland B. Semaglutide Cost: Comprehensive Breakdown for Patients | Dr. Brandon Richland, MD. Dr. Brandon Richland, MD. Published September 19, 2023. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://www.richlandmd.com/cosmetic/semaglutide-cost/

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18. Willson A. How Much Does Ozempic Cost? With & Without Insurance. Ro. Published April 30, 2024. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://ro.co/weight-loss/ozempic-cost-without-insurance/

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19. Weiman E. Semaglutide for Weight Loss: Benefits, Side Effects, and More. sesamecare.com. Published December 19, 2023. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://sesamecare.com/blog/semaglutide-for-weight-loss

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20. Latif W, Lambrinos KJ, Rodriguez R. Compare And Contrast the Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP1RAs). PubMed. Published 2022. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK572151/

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21. Hullett A. How to Get Semaglutide: Eligibility, Cost, Insurance, and More. Healthline. Published June 21, 2023. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-get-semaglutide

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22. Hadichi, MD S. Dr. Shima Hadidchi MD. Dr. Shima Hadidchi, MD. Published April 26, 2024. Accessed August 20, 2024. https://www.shimahadidchimd.com/semaglutide-weight-loss

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Disclaimer: The FDA does not approve compounded medications for safety, quality, or manufacturing. Prescriptions and a medical evaluation are required for certain products. The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not be relied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blog is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns, including side effects. Use of this blog's information is at your own risk. The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided in this blog.

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