What to Know About GLP-1 Medications and Weight Management Programs
Learn how Eden connects patients to licensed providers to explore GLP-1 medications as part of medical weight management programs.
Learn how semaglutide works in the body over time, like how long it stays active, and how this information may help doctors create personalized treatment plans.
The half-life of a drug refers to how long it takes for the concentration of the drug in the bloodstream to be reduced by half.
Semaglutide is approved by the FDA as a GLP-1 receptor agonist under the names (Ozempic®, which is available for T-2 diabetes management andWegovy®, for weight management), has a half-life of about one week.
This extended half-life differentiates semaglutide from other GLP-1 receptor agonists, which may allow for once-weekly dosing schedules instead of daily injections.
Knowing the half-life of semaglutide may help patients and healthcare providers in several ways:
Always discuss any changes to your medication with a licensed healthcare provider.
The timing of medication effects varies. Patients should discuss their expectations with their healthcare provider and maintain healthy habits throughout their treatment.
It’s crucial to maintain lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, for optimal results.
Patience and consistency are important when following a provider-recommended treatment plan, especially when paired with healthy lifestyle habits.
Following discontinuation, semaglutide may take several weeks to fully clear from the body, depending on metabolism and dosage. Patients should consult a licensed healthcare provider before stopping treatment.
Because semaglutide stays in the body for several weeks after stopping, this may be an important factor when:
Always talk to a licensed healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medications.
Important Note:
Eden is a platform through which you may connect with licensed healthcare providers who can determine your eligibility for prescription medications. Eligibility is not guaranteed.
Semaglutide’s prolonged half-life supports convenient weekly dosing and impacts everything from missed doses to side effect management.
Semaglutide’s long half-life may allow for less frequent dosing schedules under medical supervision. Understanding this may help patients discuss treatment options with licensed providers.
The information provided herein is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions about a medical condition or treatment plan. Eden is not a medical provider or pharmacy. We connect patients with licensed providers who determine eligibility for treatment. Eligibility is not guaranteed.
Disclaimer: The FDA does not approve compounded medications for safety, quality, or manufacturing. Prescriptions and a medical evaluation are required for certain products. The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not be relied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blog is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns, including side effects. Use of this blog's information is at your own risk. The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided in this blog.