Losing weight can be a challenging journey, but with the right medical support, significant and lasting results are achievable. At Long Island Weight Loss Institute (LIWLI), we offer FDA-approved weight loss injections as part of a comprehensive weight management program designed to provide safe and effective weight loss options for individuals who have struggled with diet and exercise alone.
Our weight loss injections are paired with personalized plans that include nutritional counseling and exercise recommendations. This combined approach aims not only to help you shed pounds but also to support long-term, sustainable results by promoting healthier lifestyle habits.
How GLP-1 Weight Loss Injections Work
GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, are groundbreaking medications in the world of weight loss. These injections mimic the action of a natural hormone in your body called GLP-1, which plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and blood sugar levels. By curbing hunger, slowing down digestion, and promoting a feeling of fullness, these medications can significantly reduce your calorie intake and help facilitate steady weight loss over time.
Originally developed to help manage type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 receptor agonists are now widely recognized for their effectiveness in promoting weight loss in individuals with or without diabetes. In clinical studies, patients using these medications saw significant weight loss, with many losing between 15% and 20% of their body weight.
This approach is especially beneficial for those who have struggled to achieve their desired weight loss through traditional methods. For individuals looking for more significant results, these medications can be a powerful tool when combined with healthy eating and regular exercise.
What to Expect with FDA-Approved Weight Loss Injections
At Long Island Weight Loss Institute, we offer a range of FDA-approved weight loss injections, including:
- Ozempic (semaglutide): Initially developed for type 2 diabetes, Ozempic is now prescribed off-label for weight loss due to its appetite-suppressing effects.
- Wegovy (semaglutide): A higher-dose version of Semiglutide, specifically approved by the FDA for long-term weight management in patients with obesity.
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide): Approved for type 2 diabetes, but clinical trials have shown its powerful effects on weight loss by targeting two key hormones.
- Zepbound (tirzepatide): FDA-approved in October 2023 for weight management, offering one of the most significant weight loss outcomes in its class.
These medications are administered once a week via an injection. Most patients begin to see noticeable results within a few weeks. The dosage will be carefully adjusted by your healthcare provider to ensure that the medication is effective while minimizing potential side effects.
Who Can Benefit from Weight Loss Injections?
Weight loss injections are typically recommended for individuals who have struggled to lose weight using traditional methods or who have weight-related health conditions. You may be eligible for these medications if you meet one of the following criteria:
- A BMI of 30 or higher, which is classified as obese.
- A BMI of 27 or higher if you have a related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, high cholesterol, or hypertension.
It’s important to understand that these medications are not a quick fix. They are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive weight management strategy that includes healthy eating habits and regular physical activity. Our healthcare providers will work closely with you to develop a plan that is tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Health Benefits Beyond Weight Loss
While the primary goal of GLP-1 receptor agonists is weight loss, these medications offer several other health benefits. By regulating blood sugar levels, they are particularly beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes. In fact, weight loss of just 5% to 10% of body weight has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of diabetes in those with pre-diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer.
In addition to reducing the risk of serious health conditions, weight loss can lead to improvements in mobility and joint pain, making everyday activities more comfortable and enjoyable. Many of our patients also report increased energy levels and a greater ability to engage in physical activities that they may have previously avoided due to excess weight. Whether you’re spending time with family or exploring the beautiful outdoor spaces Long Island has to offer, weight loss can help you lead a more active and fulfilling life.
For individuals who suffer from sleep apnea due to excess weight, weight loss can result in significant improvements in sleep quality. Many patients report better mental clarity, more energy during the day, and an overall improvement in mood and well-being after losing weight.
Comparing Weight Loss Injections to Other Methods
For those considering more invasive procedures like bariatric surgery, weight loss injections offer a less risky alternative. Bariatric surgery, while effective, involves permanent alterations to the digestive system and comes with higher risks of complications, a longer recovery period, and significant lifestyle adjustments. GLP-1 medications, by contrast, are non-invasive and have fewer immediate risks. However, they may need to be taken long-term to maintain the benefits.
GLP-1 medications differ from over-the-counter supplements and fad diets, which often promise quick results but deliver little in terms of sustained success. These injections are backed by clinical studies and are proven to target the underlying biological factors that make weight loss difficult for many individuals, such as insulin resistance and heightened hunger.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
As with any medication, there are potential side effects to consider. Common side effects of GLP-1 weight loss injections include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
These side effects are typically mild and subside as your body adjusts to the medication. However, more serious risks, such as pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, or kidney problems, are rare but possible. At LIWLI, our healthcare providers will closely monitor your progress to ensure that the medication is working safely and effectively for you.
What Happens If You Stop Taking Weight Loss Injections?
One concern for many individuals is the possibility of regaining weight after stopping weight loss injections. Studies show that weight regain can occur if the medication is discontinued, as the underlying biological factors that led to weight gain may return. However, at LIWLI, our goal is to help you develop long-term healthy habits that can be maintained over time. Even if you stop the medication, a focus on diet and exercise can help you sustain much of the weight loss and its associated health benefits.
Insurance Coverage for Weight Loss Injections
Insurance coverage for weight loss injections varies depending on your plan. Some insurers cover these medications, while others consider them elective. Our team will assist you in navigating insurance options and help explore alternatives like savings programs or payment plans.
Get Started with Our Weight Loss Program
At LIWLI, we are committed to helping you achieve your weight loss goals safely and effectively. If you’d like to learn more about our prescription weight loss injection program, call us at 516-333-5555 (East Meadow), 631-366-2333 (Smithtown or Amityville), 631-509-3516 (Port Jefferson Station), or schedule a consultation at one of our Long Island locations.