Month: March 2024

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Weight Loss Benefits of Semaglutide

Woody Hogan

Among participants without type 2 diabetes in the STEP 1 and 3 trials, once-weekly s.c. semaglutide 2.4 mg plus lifestyle intervention led to significant placebo-subtracted weight losses that appeared to plateau around week 60.

Semaglutide San Diego was associated with greater reductions from baseline to week 104 in waist circumference and systolic blood pressure (both were co-primary endpoints) than placebo (Table 2 and Extended Data Fig. 7).

In combination with a low-calorie diet and regular exercise, semaglutide can help people lose an average of 1-2 pounds per week or 8-10 pounds per month. However, results vary by person, as do side effects. Some common side effects include nausea and gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea. People can often reduce these symptoms by starting on a lower dose or slowing up their dosage over time.

People who are considering starting this medication should talk to their primary care doctor, as they can determine if the drug will be a good fit for them and will work with other health conditions they may have. People who have other diabetes medications should make sure they discuss how semaglutide interacts with them to avoid complications or a negative interaction. Additionally, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take semaglutide.

Another option is to consult an experienced weight loss doctor, who can assess a patient’s medical history and current health to determine if the medication is right for them. Typically, a weight loss specialist will recommend semaglutide as the best option for those who want to lose significant amounts of weight and improve their overall health.

Some of the most important reasons to consider taking this medication is its potential to lead to weight loss, especially in those with type 2 diabetes or obesity. This is because it helps people control their appetite, making eating a healthy amount of calories less difficult. This, in turn, leads to greater weight loss over the long term.

It’s also important to remember that, in addition to promoting weight loss, semaglutide can help treat other health conditions related to obesity. These can include osteoarthritis, sleep apnea and more. Garvey says that patients who are on high doses of semaglutide “are not just losing X number of pounds, they’re really improving their health,” as recommended in the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology obesity treatment guidelines.

Although not FDA-approved for weight loss, doctors sometimes prescribe semaglutide off-label to treat obesity. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including the fact that it’s cheaper than other prescription drugs and can be easier to obtain. However, it’s important to note that these off-label medications can be dangerous if not administered correctly.

Blood Sugar Control

GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide, control the pace at which food moves from the stomach into the small intestine, slowing the absorption of sugar and other nutrients. This can create a feeling of fullness and may reduce overall food intake, helping patients lose weight. Additionally, GLP-1 can increase your own insulin secretion to improve blood glucose control.

In a study, participants with Type 2 diabetes who took oral semaglutide at either 14 mg or 25 mg saw improved A1C levels, the percentage of sugars in the blood that indicate diabetes. A1C levels below 7% are considered healthy in diabetics. Patients taking the 25 mg dose were more likely to reach their A1C goal than those who took the 14 mg dose.

Researchers analyzed data on 23,442 adults who received weekly injections of semaglutide at either 0.25, 0.5 or 1 mg as part of the Maccabi Health Services diabetes registry from August 2022 through December of 2022. A measure called proportion of days covered (PDC) was used to evaluate adherence to treatment, with the aim of measuring the ability to consistently deliver a prescription medication as prescribed.

Patients who were able to take their medications as directed showed a high level of adherence and, in turn, improved their glycemic outcomes. In particular, those who were able to stick to their prescribed dosages of semaglutide and other medicines were more likely to achieve the A1C target of 7% or below.

Semaglutide is available in tablets (Rybelsus brand) and as a once-weekly prefilled injection pen that is given subcutaneously (under the skin) once a week, usually on the same day each week (for example, every Monday). The medication should be stored in a refrigerator until first use and then kept at room temperature.

It is important to talk with your doctor before you start this or any other diabetes medication. You should also let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, as this medication is known to pass into breast milk and can harm an unborn child. Also, discuss how to manage your diet and exercise program while taking this medication.

Blood Pressure Control

In addition to lowering blood sugar, semaglutide also appears to improve blood pressure. In fact, many studies have shown that semaglutide lowers blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity (BMI > 30). In one study of 656 participants who were treated with oral or subcutaneous semaglutide, the authors found that compared to placebo, treatment with semaglutide significantly reduced systolic blood pressure by 2.5 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by 1.75 mmHg.

A major reason why semaglutide is associated with lowered blood pressure may be related to its ability to foster better endothelial function, which can help the vessels relax and lower blood pressure. This is an area of active research, and a growing interest in the medical community.

During the SELECT trial, semaglutide was shown to reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in obese people without diabetes who were at high risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). This effect on BP was observed even when adjusting for co-primary and confirmatory secondary outcomes, including waist circumference, total cholesterol, triglycerides, fasting plasma glucose, hemoglobin A1c, C-reactive protein, HDL cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and IL-6.

This is an exciting finding because it shows that semaglutide, with its long-term efficacy and safety, has the potential to exert protective cardiometabolic effects in people with high-risk factors who are overweight or obese without diabetes. This is an important advance, because the prevailing treatment options for this population are limited and expensive.

Semaglutide is available in capsule form (Rybelsus brand) or as a prefilled injection pen that is administered under the skin once per week (Ozempic brand). It can be taken alone or with other medications to treat obesity and weight-related conditions such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, or heart failure. It can be used as part of a healthy eating and exercise plan to achieve sustainable weight loss. Talk with your healthcare provider to learn more about whether semaglutide is right for you. Semaglutide should not be used in people who have a history of thyroid cancer or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome type 2. It also has been linked with pancreatitis in some cases, and should only be started under the care of a physician.

Emotional Well-Being

It’s no secret that excess weight can take a toll on an individual’s emotional well-being. People who struggle with obesity often face a number of emotional issues, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and social isolation. Shedding excess weight has been shown to help reduce these burdens and improve mental health. However, the benefits of Semaglutide extend beyond assisting with weight loss.

By helping individuals maintain healthy blood sugar levels, Semaglutide can also dramatically reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes. This not only greatly improves an individual’s quality of life but also significantly cuts down on long-term healthcare costs.

Research has demonstrated that, when used in conjunction with a diet and exercise regimen, Semaglutide can also lead to improved mental health. In particular, this medication has been shown to help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Additionally, Semaglutide can reduce suicidal thoughts in those who are struggling with these conditions.

The effects of Semaglutide on mental health can be attributed to its role as a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which works by stimulating the brain’s natural production of GLP-1 and inducing a sense of fullness. As a result, the brain becomes less focused on food and cravings.

In addition, studies have found that semaglutide can improve eating behaviors. For example, a study found that when combined with an intensive behavioral therapy program, once weekly semaglutide was associated with significant reductions in emotional and external eating as well as binge episodes and savory and sweet cravings.

Researchers have also discovered that, in some patients, Semaglutide can reduce non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a liver disease associated with both diabetes and obesity. NASH is characterized by liver inflammation and cell damage and can be difficult to treat. Fortunately, early research has shown that Semaglutide may be able to slow the progression of NASH in those who have type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Despite these amazing benefits, there are some risks of using Semaglutide that should be discussed with your doctor. These include the potential for hypoglycemia, a condition in which blood sugar levels are too low, and for some people, this can lead to confusion, irritability, anxiety, or mood changes. Additionally, individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use this medication as it can be harmful to unborn babies.

Business

Choosing the Right Eye Doctor

Woody Hogan

The right eye doctor can improve your vision and prevent serious eye disorders. But with so many eye health professionals vying for patients, it’s sometimes hard to determine who’s best for your needs. This article will help you decide who to see for your next checkup.

Generally, optometrists are best for routine care and annual eye exams. They can diagnose and treat most eye-related problems and will know when to refer you for specialist care. You should schedule an appointment with an optometrist if you’re experiencing a sudden change in your eyesight, have eye pain, or have any other eye-related concern. Contact Eye Doctor Ellicott City MD now!

An ophthalmologist is best for complex or chronic conditions that require surgery or other medical treatments. This includes treating such eye diseases as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration; eye injuries like traumatic brain injury and retinal tears; and dry eyes. Ophthalmologists have at least 12 years of education and training, including four years of medical school, one year of internship, and a minimum of three years of a hospital-based ophthalmology residency.

Optometrists can also perform simple procedures in their office to address common eye issues, such as removing skin tags from the eyelid. (You’ll usually need to bring your prescription or the boxes of your contacts and glasses for these types of appointments.) But suppose you want a more comprehensive eye exam, or need surgery on your corneas or cataracts. In that case, you’ll have to visit an ophthalmologist, whose practice requires at least a bachelor’s degree and four years of medical school.

Ophthalmologist

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who has been trained in the medical and surgical care of eyes. They are the primary eye care providers and are qualified to treat most eye disorders, as well as provide general medical advice. They also participate in scientific research into eye diseases and vision disorders. Ophthalmologists spend a long time in training, starting with a bachelor’s degree and four years of medical school. Then they complete a hospital-based residency in ophthalmology.

There are several different types of ophthalmologists. Some specialize in certain areas of the eye, while others work with the whole patient. Some doctors focus on cataracts, glaucoma, and corneal disease. Others specialize in pediatric ophthalmology or plastic and reconstructive surgery. Some ophthalmologists also specialize in neuro-ophthalmology, which deals with conditions that affect the nerves around the eye.

During an eye exam, the ophthalmologist will ask the person about their medical history and family history. They may also perform various tests to assess a person’s vision. For example, they may test a person’s visual acuity by asking them to read from an eye chart. The charts contain rows of letters that decrease in size, making it easy to measure a person’s eye sight. Other tests include a color blindness test and a visual field assessment.

After a comprehensive eye examination, the ophthalmologist will prescribe glasses and contact lenses if needed. They can also prescribe medications to treat various eye and vision disorders, such as glaucoma or dry eyes. They may also refer patients to other specialists if they need treatment that is not available from an optometrist.

To practice as an ophthalmologist, you must have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject such as biology or chemistry. You then need to pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). After completing medical school, you will undergo an internship and residency in ophthalmology. Depending on the specialty you choose, you will spend between three and eight years in training. Then you must take a licensing exam. Some states require that ophthalmologists be board certified.

Optometrist

An optometrist is the eye doctor you see for your regular comprehensive eye exams. These healthcare professionals are the best qualified to diagnose and treat eye diseases, including glaucoma and macular degeneration, as well as general health issues that may be related to the eyes. They also prescribe glasses and contact lenses.

Optometrists are licensed to practice in all aspects of optical and medical eye care. They conduct comprehensive eye exams and prescribe corrective lenses to aid refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and double vision. They can also identify and treat amblyopia (lazy eye) in children. They are also trained to diagnose and manage eye disease such as ocular infections, inflammation and glaucoma, as well as their associations with systemic health. They are trained to prescribe all topical medications for eye care and ocular emergencies, as well as some oral medications.

In addition to providing vision services, optometrists are often involved in research practices, and provide training for new eye care professionals. They participate in awareness programs such as Vision 2020, a worldwide campaign to prevent avoidable blindness. They also visit schools, colleges and occupational areas to carry out eye examinations and prescribe glasses.

Unlike an ophthalmologist, who must complete undergraduate education and four years of medical school to become a medical doctor, an optometrist is licensed to practice after four years of optometry school and an internship. Optometrists must continue their education to stay up-to-date on the latest advances in eye care and optometry.

Aside from a four-year degree, the most significant difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist is the level of training that each receives. Optometrists typically have the shortest training, which is about a year or two after graduating from high school.

An ophthalmologist, on the other hand, is a medical doctor who spends eight years in medical school and at least three to four years in a residency after graduating from college. They are trained to perform complex surgeries and can treat a wide range of eye conditions, including cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and macular degeneration.

Optician

Opticians are a critical member of a patient’s eye care team, focusing on dispensing eye wear according to prescriptions provided by ophthalmologists and optometrists. They work with patients to select frames and lenses that meet their visual, occupational, and lifestyle needs. They may also recommend low vision aids or vision therapy. They also write work orders to help ophthalmic lab technicians correctly fill prescriptions and dispense the final eyewear. Opticians can be found working in a variety of settings, including medical offices and retail locations. Those who are most successful in this role tend to be goal-oriented and extroverted.

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who can treat complex eye problems with medication, surgery, and other treatments. They often specialize in specific areas of eye care, such as glaucoma or retinal disease. They are able to perform a comprehensive medical eye exam, which is the first step in diagnosing an eye condition. An ophthalmologist can prescribe eyeglasses, contact lenses, and medications to improve vision and correct eye conditions.

A qualified ophthalmologist can diagnose and treat a wide range of eye-related issues, including cataracts, glaucoma, corneal disease, and dry eyes. They can also offer advice on healthy eating and exercise, and prescribe medications to prevent dry eye symptoms. Some ophthalmologists also perform eye surgeries, such as removing cataracts or correcting misaligned eyesight.

You should see an ophthalmologist for any severe or changing eye symptoms, such as a sudden loss of vision. A reputable ophthalmologist will refer you to the right specialist for any further care that’s required.

While an optometrist can provide many aspects of eye care, they are not qualified to diagnose and treat any underlying health or medical problems. This is why ophthalmologists are always the first point of contact for anyone who has an eye-related problem.

To become an optician, you must complete a program that’s accredited by the Commission on Opticianry Accreditation. The curriculum includes a combination of classroom learning and hands-on clinical experience. During the coursework, you’ll learn about optical principles and terminology, lens fabrication, ophthalmic physics, and the anatomy of the eye. You’ll also learn to use a number of different ophthalmic instruments, including an autorefractor and an auto-keratometer.

Assistant

An assistant eye doctor is the person who performs various tasks to help patients see and look their best. Their job is to ensure that the patient’s experience at the eye doctor’s office is as comfortable as possible, while also ensuring that all of the patient’s questions are answered. They are a vital member of the team and have a huge impact on how a patient views their doctor. They are also responsible for a variety of administrative duties, such as scheduling appointments and exams and processing transactions. They must be knowledgeable about common medical terms and procedures. They must also be able to answer basic patient questions over the phone and in person.

A career as an optometric assistant is rewarding and exciting. These professionals work directly with optometrists to provide a wide range of services to their patients. They can take a patient’s case history, schedule appointments and examinations, and prepare test equipment. They also handle insurance and payment matters. In addition to their administrative duties, optometric assistants often assist with vision tests. This includes testing a patient’s ocular pressures, using autorefractors to estimate a patient’s prescription, and running visual field screening tests.

Many people start this career as receptionists or office administrators in an optometry practice, then receive on-the-job training as they move through the ranks of the profession. However, some schools also offer formal training programs for those who wish to enter the field.

While the job description for an ophthalmic assistant is diverse, some of their specific duties include:

Reviewing a patient’s chart to ensure that all necessary data is entered in the system before a patient arrives. Taking a patient’s case history, including information such as previous eye issues and the medications they are currently taking. Scheduling appointments, including booking, rescheduling, and cancelling them. Communicating with patients over the phone, including answering questions, addressing concerns, and scheduling appointments.