What is Medically Managed Weight Loss?
Managing a healthy body weight can pose significant challenges for individuals, even with good adherence to a balanced diet and exercise routine. With our Medically Managed Weight Loss Program we now offer an innovative and powerful tool to aid in this process. The essence of this program are the GLP-1 and GIP agonists, which are revolutionary medications specifically developed to regulate blood sugar levels. Interestingly, they can also improve metabolic disbalance and diminish appetite and food intake, therefore assisting weight loss efforts in a highly effective way. In this blog we will discuss all you need to know about these medications and how they can help you in your weight loss journey.
Keep reading to discover exciting insights into our Medically Managed Weight loss Program!
How do GLP-1 & GIP drugs work?
Gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) are two hormones naturally produced in our bodies. They are involved in:
stimulating secretion of insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels
suppressing a hormone called glucagon, which can reduce hunger
increasing feelings of fullness by delaying stomach emptying
GLP-1 and GIP agonists act by binding to their specific receptors, resulting in effects that are very helpful in regulating blood sugar levels, but also in losing excess body fat. Initially developed to manage type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 and GIP agonists were later rebranded and are now also approved for weight loss.
Medications approved for weight loss
Wegovy®, Ozempic®: Semaglutide, marketed under the brand names Wegovy® and Ozempic®, is a once-weekly injection initially approved for Type II Diabetes. Operating on the GLP-1 pathway, it aids in blood sugar regulation and incidentally reduces appetite. Although they are the same medication, Wegovy® is packaged differently and is specifically approved for weight loss.
Mounjaro®, Zepbound®: Tirzepatide, known by its brand names Mounjaro® and Zepbound®, is also an injectable medication approved to manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes when combined with diet and exercise. Administered as a once-weekly injection, Tirzepatide has demonstrated even more powerful weight loss effects than semaglutide. It operates on both the GIP and GLP-1 pathways to regulate blood sugar levels while also reducing appetite and gastric emptying time.
Who is a Candidate for our Medically Managed Weight Loss Program?
Many of us, including Hollywood actors and top executives like Elon Musk, have discovered that incorporating weight loss injections with lifestyle and diet adjustments has proven a highly effective combination in achieving a healthier body weight.
These medications are in Switzerland only accessible through prescription and necessitate consultation with a physician for consideration. Our Medically Managed Weight Loss Program mandates basic monitoring and management of potential side effects, blood tests, as well as regular coaching sessions and check-ups with a team of physicians, expert dieticians, as well as exercise- and lifestyle coaches.
Potential side effects of weight loss medications
No medications exist without potential side effects. Common side effects of weight loss medications include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation. Rare instances of pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, heightened heart rate, and kidney injury due to dehydration, have been found, making monitoring of such potential risks essential. In addition, we monitor your muscle mass and help you with adequate muscle training and nutrition.
What does the program’s basic package include?
The program's basic package includes a consultation with a doctor to determine the medication that fits best to your needs. Mandatory lab tests and three follow-up consultations with a trained weight loss expert form the core of the program, which runs a minimum of 6 months. We also offer additional individual packages including nutrition-, exercise- and lifestyle coaching, personal training, anti-aging, and rejuvenation, with highly personalized options available.
Each individual weight loss journey is unique, underscoring the importance of discussing options with your Medically Managed Weight Loss Team to determine the most suitable approach for your needs. Results will differ for each individual and the type of medication, but clinical studies have shown, that, depending on your goals, significant weight loss of 15-20% of your total body weight, is possible within a timeframe of 6-12 months.
If you're interested in learning more about our Medically Managed Weight Loss Program tailored to your unique needs, feel free to reach out to us for further information. We're here to support you on your weight loss journey!