What is Semaglutide? A Patient’s Guide to Weight Loss in Edina
- Gary M. Rudashevsky, NP
- Jan 1
- 3 min read
If you are exploring medical weight management, you have likely seen the headlines about "GLP-1s." While the science has evolved rapidly into 2026, Semaglutide remains the most common starting point for patients at our clinic and across the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.
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What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) receptor agonist. It mimics a hormone your body naturally releases after a meal, sending signals to your brain to feel satisfied and slowing down how quickly your stomach empties (Source: Cleveland Clinic).
Why do most patients start here? While newer "multi-agonist" peptides are available, Semaglutide has the most robust long-term safety data. It provides a reliable foundation for metabolic health, allowing us to see how your body responds before considering more complex therapies.
Beyond the Shot: Our "Supportive Care" Approach
One of the biggest concerns patients have is "feeling like a zombie" (malaise) or losing muscle. At our clinic, we don't just provide a prescription; we use a Supportive Care Protocol to manage common side effects and optimize your results.
Q: What if I feel tired or "sluggish"?
A: Low energy can happen as your body adjusts to a caloric deficit. To combat this, we offer Lipotropic Injections. These contain a blend of amino acids—Methionine, Inositol, and Choline—along with Vitamin B12 to help your liver process fat and provide a natural energy boost.
Q: How do I avoid "Muscle Loss"?
A: Research indicates that rapid weight loss can sometimes lead to a loss of lean muscle mass. To protect your strength and metabolism, we may integrate:
Sermorelin: A peptide that encourages your body's natural production of growth hormone, supporting muscle repair and recovery (Source: NIH/PubMed).
NAD+ Therapy: A vital coenzyme that supports cellular energy (mitochondria) and can help clear "brain fog."
High-Protein Nutrition: We emphasize protein intake to ensure the weight you lose is primarily fat.
Q: What about digestive "slow down"?
A: Because Semaglutide slows digestion, constipation is a known side effect. We provide specific medical-grade supplements and hydration strategies to keep your digestive system moving comfortably.
Administration: Pens, Syringes, and Pills
As we enter 2026, patients have more choices than ever in how they take their medication:
Weekly Injections: Depending on your specific program, Semaglutide is typically administered via auto-injector pens or pre-filled syringes. Both use tiny needles designed for comfort.
Wegovy® Pill (New for 2026): The FDA has approved a high-dose oral version of Wegovy for weight loss, offering a once-daily pill for those who prefer to avoid needles.(Source: FDA 2025/2026 Approval Data).*We do not offer the pill currently.
Twin Cities Patient FAQ
Q: Can I keep up my active Minnesota lifestyle? A: Absolutely. Whether you’re hiking at Afton State Park or walking around Lake Harriet, we want you moving. Our use of supportive peptides like Sermorelin is specifically intended to help you stay strong and active.
Q: How do I store my medication? A: Injections should stay in the refrigerator.
Q: Who should avoid Semaglutide? A: You should not use Semaglutide if you have a personal or family history of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Continue Your Learning
We believe an informed patient is a successful patient. Explore our other guides:
Take the First Step Toward Your Health Goals
Ready to move beyond the "one-size-fits-all" approach? At our Twin Cities clinic, we specialize in a comprehensive metabolic protocol that pairs Semaglutide with the supportive therapies you need to feel your best.
Don't just lose weight—optimize your health.
Ready to Talk About Your Options?
If you are having symptoms and want to understand whether hormone therapy is right for you, we are here to help.
Our team will walk you through testing, timing, safety, and your full treatment choices.
Call us: (952) 225-5400
Email us: inquiries@medicalsp.net
You deserve clear answers and care that fits your life. We are ready when you are.
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