Are you currently struggling with your weight? Does it seem like you’ve tried everything and no amount of diet or exercise can make the number on the scale budge? If so, you’re not alone. Millions of people worldwide experience weight loss resistance at some point in their lives. For many, in begins in childhood and remains a continuous challenge throughout adulthood. To make matters even more complicated, the root causes behind a person’s struggle with their weight are unique, ranging from biological disorders to hormonal imbalances to decreased muscle mass to their behaviors and habits surrounding food. That means weight loss strategies need to be customized to each individual to succeed, and “eat less and move more” isn’t the solution for everyone. Refinery Skin Clinic is excited to introduce our new medically-assisted weight loss program that is tailored to the specific needs of each client and empowers you to safely and effectively reach your weight loss goals while improving your overall health!
Over the past few years, the landscape of weight management and metabolic health has been dramatically transformed by the introduction of GLP-1 agonists and other peptide therapies. Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you have probably heard of such medications as Ozempic® and their seeming superpowers to help those who struggle with their weight shed excess pounds and reclaim their confidence. Among these, semaglutide, tirzepatide
and retatrutide have emerged as groundbreaking treatments that not only aid in weight loss but also contribute to improved metabolic health. After utilizing a GLP-1 medication to help hershed nearly 100 pounds, Refinery Skin Clinic owner Rebecca Suess, MSN, RN, APRN, CNP, AGPCNP-BC, CPSN, CANS, ISPAN-F, is excited to launch a medically-assisted weight loss program at our medical spa to help our clients achieve their goals and improve their overall health!
Understanding GLP-1 Agonists & How They Work
GLP-1 agonists, like semaglutide and tirzepatide, are revolutionary medications that mimic the action of the glucagon-like peptide-1 in our bodies, a hormone essential for managing our appetite and blood sugar levels. These powerful peptide-based therapies stimulate insulin secretion when we eat to slow the rate of digestion and significantly increase our feelings of fullness, leading to reduced caloric intake.GLP-1 agonists’ remarkable weight loss effectiveness stems from their ability to alter appetite signals in the brain, which curbs cravings and encourages us to consume smaller portions. They also lead to better metabolic health by improving blood sugar control, positioning them as a game-changing solution for those battling obesity and type 2 diabetes.
When used correctly with medical supervision and support, ideal clients for medically-assisted weight loss can expect to lose up to 20% of their body weight within a calendar year with the assistance of GLP-1 agonists. However, it is important to note that these medications are not “quick fixes” and should be viewed and partnered with significant lifestyle and behavioral changes to enhance your results and overall health.
What Are Compounded Semaglutide & Tirzepatide?
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are both compounded GLP-1 agonist medications used in Refinery Skin Clinic’s medically-assisted weight loss program. Although very similar, they differ in their composition and mechanisms of action. Semaglutide (brand name Ozempic®) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that primarily stimulates insulin secretion in response to meals and reduces glucagon secretion, which helps lower blood sugar levels. It also promotes weight loss by increasing feelings of fullness. In contrast, tirzepatide (brand name Mounjaro® and Zepbound®) is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, meaning it activates both the GLP-1 and GIP pathways, which can enhance insulin secretion and further improve glycemic control. This dual action may also lead to more significant weight loss compared to semaglutide for some clients. While both medications are effective for weight loss, the distinct mechanisms of tirzepatide may offer additional benefits for some patients.
Mechanisms and Benefits of GLP-1 Agonists
The mechanisms by which semaglutide and tirzepatide facilitate weight loss and improve metabolic health include:
Appetite Suppression – Both medications act on the brain to reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness. This leads to decreased caloric intake and, consequently, weight loss.
Improved Glycemic Control – By enhancing insulin secretion and reducing glucagon levels, these medications help regulate blood sugar levels, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.
Metabolic Changes – Significant weight loss associated with these drugs leads to metabolic improvements, including lower blood pressure and improved lipid profiles.
Sustained Weight Loss – Unlike many weight-loss interventions, semaglutide and tirzepatide offer a sustainable approach to weight management, with many users maintaining weight loss long-term.
How Does the GLP-1 Agonist Medically-Assisted Weight Loss Program Work at Refinery Skin Clinic?
At Refinery Skin Clinic, all GLP-1 weight loss clients are personally managed and overseen by Rebecca Suess, MSN, RN, APRN, CNP, AGPCNP-BC, CANS, ISPAN-F. Not only is Rebecca a Nurse Practitioner and founder of Refinery Skin Clinic, but she is also a success story, losing nearly 100 lbs. on a GLP-1 medically-assisted weight loss program!
At Refinery Skin Clinic, we understand that every weight loss journey is unique. That’s why each program designed by Rebecca is highly customized, taking into account your current weight, overall health, behavioral relationship with food, nutritional deficiencies, lab values, and your goals. With Rebecca’s unique combination of personal experience and professional qualifications, you can be sure you’ll receive the most individualized and comprehensive care and support on your weight loss journey.
What Results Can I Expect With Refinery Skin Clinic’s Medically-Assisted Weight Loss Program?
GLP-1 agonists are powerful tools for weight loss, but they must be supported by several lifestyle factors to reach complete, lasting success. The most dramatic results are seen with clients who significantly improve their diet and exercise habits while on the program and continue these new lifestyle practices well after their program ends.
Depending on your starting weight, most clients can expect to lose 1-2 pounds per week when they first begin semaglutide or tirzepatide. Rebecca will closely monitor your progress so dosing can be adjusted to avoid any weight loss plateaus and manage any symptoms. In clinical trials, patients treated with semaglutide and tirzepatide lost an average of 12.4%—17.8% more body weight than the placebo group over the course of a year.
GLP-1 agonists have revolutionized the world’s approach to weight loss, offering exciting and transformative results for individuals who have struggled with their weight their entire lives. Beyond significant reductions in body weight, Refinery Skin Clinic clients often experience enhanced mood and dramatically increased energy levels. These changes can lead to improved overall health, including lower risks of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, lower blood pressure, improved blood sugar levels, better sleep, and enhanced focus. GLP-1 medically-assisted weight loss can have an immeasurable impact on your confidence and self-esteem!
Going Beyond GLP-1 Agonists for Weight Loss
Although they are extremely popular right now, GLP-1 agonists aren’t the only show in town when it comes to losing weight and improving metabolic health. There are a actually a multitude of medications that are currently available for weight loss. They all work differently: some suppress appetite, some suppress binge eating, some block uptake of carbs/fat, some increase energy, and some repair the insulin/glucose relationship. Rebecca will help you determine which option best matches your needs and goals!
Are you ready to start your weight loss journey with the guidance and support of Refinery Skin Clinic? Schedule a complimentary consultation with Rebecca to learn more and discover if you are a good candidate for GLP-1 medically-assisted weight loss! Call or text (952) 479-0603 to get started!