Semaglutide, is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It mimics the natural hormone GLP-1, which regulates appetite and food intake by targeting specific receptors in the brain. By modulating the brain centers responsible for appetite regulation, semaglutide helps individuals eat less, feel fuller, and ultimately lose weight.

Semaglutide operates on multiple fronts for weight loss in non diabetics and diabetics alike. Firstly, it extends gastric emptying time, leading to a prolonged feeling of fullness. Additionally, it communicates with the brain, signaling a reduced sense of hunger and eliminating food cravings. The medication also addresses food addiction by minimizing "food noise." Moreover, semaglutide alters the release patterns of insulin and glucagon, thereby influencing metabolism. In the context of weight loss being a function of calories in versus calories out, semaglutide impacts this equation by modifying metabolic rates. It shifts the body's energy source preference from sugar to fat, promoting the burning of fat over short-term storage.

Common side effects of semaglutide are usually mild and may include:

The majority of side effects are transient and typically resolve spontaneously. Nevertheless, if side effects persist or deteriorate, seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

While the tolerance for specific foods may vary from person to person, there are some general guidelines to follow when it comes to foods that should be avoided while taking semaglutide. These include:

High-Fat and Greasy Foods

High-fat and greasy foods are especially problematic for individuals on semaglutide. These foods can cause GI upset even in individuals not taking the medication. Examples of high-fat and greasy foods to avoid include:

Fried chicken

Hamburgers and other forms of red meat

Cheese

Peanut butter

Nuts

Butter

Oil

Alcoholic Beverages

Alcohol can worsen the side effects of semaglutide, particularly nausea and GI discomfort. It is advisable to avoid wine, beer, and liquor while taking the medication.

High-Sugar Foods and Drinks

High-sugar foods and drinks, such as soda and sugar-sweetened beverages, should be limited or avoided altogether. These foods can increase blood sugar levels and potentially worsen the side effects of semaglutide.

High-Glycemic Index Foods

Foods with a high glycemic index, which cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, should be minimized. Examples of high-glycemic index foods to avoid include:

White bread

Processed cereals

Ultra-Processed Foods

Ultra-processed foods, which are typically high in fat, sugar, and additives, should be avoided. These foods can worsen side effects and contribute to overall health issues. Examples of ultra-processed foods include:

Fast food meals

Packaged snacks

Sweetened breakfast cereals

Drug compounding is the process of creating customized medications tailored to the specific needs of an individual patient. This can involve combining or altering existing medications, ingredients, or dosage forms to create a medication that is not commercially available or to meet specific requirements such as dosage strength, form (e.g., liquid, cream, suppository), or flavor.

Compounding pharmacists, who are specially trained in this practice, work closely with healthcare providers and patients to create medications that address unique medical needs, allergies, or preferences.

Compounded semaglutide is a custom-prepared version of the drug, mixed specifically for a patient by a compounding pharmacy. This practice of creating tailored medicine is regulated, safe, and common practice and can be beneficial for patients with specific needs.