GLP-1 Agoninst! Do you need it? How much does it actually cost?

GLP-1 Agoninst! Do you need it? How much does it actually cost?

GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) agonists are a class of medications used to treat type 2 diabetes. These medications work by mimicking the action of GLP-1, a hormone naturally produced in the body to stimulate insulin secretion in response to elevated blood sugar levels.


GLP-1 agonists activate the GLP-1 receptor, which is found on pancreatic beta cells, and promote insulin release in a glucose-dependent manner. This means that they stimulate insulin secretion only when blood sugar levels are high, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).


In addition to their glucose-lowering effects, GLP-1 agonists have other beneficial effects, such as promoting weight loss and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. They are administered by injection and are usually taken once weekly. Some examples of GLP-1 agonists include exenatide, liraglutide, dulaglutide, and semaglutide.


I have been seeing a lot of advertisements for compounded semaglutide for weight loss. Pharmacies and clinics are getting around the Ozempic trademark by adding B vitamins to the injection. They are doing this at the cost of $200-$500 monthly. Patients may be unaware that these drugs are available at a retail pharmacy for a fraction of the cost. With a manufacturer’s coupon, most patients can expect to pay $25 a month for Ozempic. 


Wegovy, which is semaglutide sold for weight loss, has similar coupons. The manufacturer advertises savings of $225 per 28-day supply (1 box) for up to 12 fills for commercially insured patients with coverage for Wegovy®. Patients with commercial insurance who do not have coverage for Wegovy can save $500 per 28-day supply (1 box).


Mounjaro, a similar medication with better outcomes, also has a manufacturer coupon that takes $500 off your monthly fill for 4 pens if not covered by insurance. If a patient is insured and medication is covered it will knock it down to $25 per month in most cases. 


Instead of paying hundreds of dollars a month to weight loss clinics and online pharmacies to compound these medications with low value b vitamins, discuss treatment with your health care provider. Have them prescribe you one of these medications so that your local pharmacist can help you get insurance approvals and save thousands of dollars a year. 


While these medications are very useful for promoting weight loss and treating diabetes we have to remember that these manufacturers and clinics want a lifelong customer. When the medication is stopped studies show that weight is regained. The medication is masking the underlying issue…


What is the underlying issue? It is a lack of quality nutrition, exercise, and sleep. 




Nutrition


Nutrition plays a vital role in our overall health. The food we eat provides the nutrients our bodies need to function properly. A balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods can help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Proper nutrition can also help maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce the risk of developing many health problems.


Healthy eating can also have a positive impact on our mental health. Studies have shown that eating a balanced diet can help prevent or alleviate depression and anxiety. Proper nutrition can also improve our cognitive function and memory, which can help us stay sharp as we age.


Healthy Eating Habits


In addition to eating a balanced diet, there are other healthy eating habits that can help promote good health and longevity. These include:

  • Eating a variety of foods: Eating a wide range of foods can help ensure that you get all the nutrients your body needs.
  • Eating in moderation: Eating in moderation can help prevent overeating and weight gain.
  • Drinking plenty of water: Staying hydrated is important for good health and can help prevent dehydration and other health problems.
  • Limiting processed foods and added sugars: Processed foods and added sugars can be high in calories and low in nutrients. Limiting these foods can help promote good health.
  • Eating mindfully: Eating mindfully involves paying attention to what you are eating and enjoying your food. This can help prevent overeating and promote good digestion.

Exercise 


Exercise is essential for both health and longevity. Regular physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve your mental health and cognitive function, and reduce the risk of age-related decline. By incorporating cardiovascular exercise, strength training, flexibility training, and regular physical activity into your daily routine, you can improve your overall health and well-being and enjoy a longer, healthier life. Start with walking, as little as 15 minutes a day. Incorporate strength training and flexibility work as you progress. 



Sleep


Sleep plays a vital role in our physical and mental health. It is during sleep that our bodies repair and restore themselves. Sleep is also essential for our cognitive function and helps us maintain focus and concentration throughout the day. When we sleep, our brains process and consolidate the information we learned during the day, which helps us to better retain and recall it later.

Inadequate sleep can lead to a range of negative health effects. Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. It can also impair our immune system, making us more susceptible to illness and disease. Sleep deprivation has been linked to a range of chronic diseases, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.


Check out SanzSolutions.com for more information about health and longevity!



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