Debunking Common Myths: Are Weight-Loss Medications Safe, Effective, and Non-Addictive?

2024-05-22

ShedRx

You’ve likely heard stories of individuals who have struggled with their weight for years, trying various diets and exercise regimens without success. For many, weight-loss medications like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide offer a real, sustainable, science-backed approach to achieving their weight goals. However, ever since the FDA approved Semaglutide for weight loss, the medication has been swarmed with numerous myths and misconceptions. Let’s delve into some of the most common myths surrounding weight-loss medications and separate fact from fiction.

Myth 1: Weight-Loss Medications Are Magic Pills for Instant Results

Weight-loss medications are often perceived as magic bullets that can instantly melt away excess fat. However, the reality is more nuanced. Medications like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are designed to complement lifestyle changes, not replace them. They work by regulating appetite, increasing feelings of fullness, and potentially boosting metabolism. While some individuals may experience rapid weight loss initially, sustainable results require consistent effort over time, including adherence to a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

It’s also important to realize that weight-loss medications don’t directly cause weight loss. Instead, they allow you to stick to low-calorie diets for extended periods without persistent hunger pangs and cravings, thus allowing you to maintain a significant calorie deficit, which promotes weight loss. To understand this function, you must understand the mechanism of action behind weight-loss medications like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide.

How Semaglutide & Tirzepatide Actually Promote Weight Loss

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide have shown promising results in promoting weight loss, but how exactly do they work? These medications belong to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic the effects of a naturally occurring hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). GLP-1s play a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels and appetite.

When Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are administered, they activate GLP-1 receptors in the brain and other tissues, leading to increased feelings of fullness and reduced appetite. Additionally, these medications slow down the emptying of the stomach, helping individuals feel satisfied for longer periods after meals. These mechanisms essentially allow you to eat more controlled portions of meals and avoid overeating or snacking between meals. By regulating appetite and food intake, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide contribute to weight loss over time.

Since Semaglutide and Tirzepatide do not directly cause weight loss on their own, they must be coupled with lifestyle changes that create a calorie deficit, such as adopting a balanced diet and increasing physical activity levels. This combination approach maximizes the effectiveness of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide in helping individuals reach their weight-loss goals.

Weight-loss medication, matched with physical and nutritious habits, can make for a longterm healthy lifestyle.

Myth 2: Weight-Loss Medications Are Addictive

One prevalent misconception is that weight-loss medications are highly addictive, leading to dependency and withdrawal symptoms. In reality, most weight-loss medications, including Semaglutide and Tirzepatide, do not cause addiction. These medications work by targeting specific hormones or neurotransmitters to help regulate appetite and metabolism. While some individuals may develop psychological dependence on the effects of weight loss, physical addiction is not a concern with these medications. However, it’s essential to follow prescribed dosages and guidelines to minimize the risk of misuse.

Myth 3: Weight-Loss Medications Guarantee Permanent Results

Another common myth is that weight loss achieved with medications is permanent. While weight-loss medications can lead to significant and sustained weight loss, maintaining the results requires ongoing effort and commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Once you stop taking the medication, there is a risk of regaining weight if you revert to old habits. Long-term success depends on adopting lasting lifestyle changes rather than relying solely on medication. Regular follow-ups can help monitor progress and provide support for maintaining weight loss.

Lifestyle Changes to Ensure Long-Lasting Weight-Loss Results:

  • Adopt a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
  • Monitor portion sizes and practice mindful eating to avoid overeating.
  • Limit consumption of sugary beverages, processed foods, and high-calorie snacks.
  • Incorporate regular physical activity into your daily routine.
  • Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
  • Include strength training exercises to build muscle mass and boost metabolism.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Prioritize adequate sleep to support overall health and weight management.
  • Manage stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.
  • Take weight-loss supplements that boost metabolism and support weight loss.
  • Consider using weight-loss peptides like Tesofensine to burn more calories.
  • Seek support from friends, family, or a support group to stay motivated.
  • Consult with a registered dietitian for personalized guidance and support.

Myth 4: Weight-Loss Medications Have Severe and Unmanageable Side Effects

Concerns about the safety of weight-loss medications often stem from misconceptions about their side effects. While it’s true that all medications carry some risk of side effects, the majority of side effects associated with Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and similar weight-loss medications are mild to moderate and subside with continued use. Common side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and headache. Serious side effects are rare.

Tips to Manage Weight-Loss Medication Side Effects:

  • Follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions.
  • Take medications with food to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day to alleviate constipation.
  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals to help manage changes in appetite.
  • Engage in regular physical activity to mitigate potential side effects.
  • Communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any side effects.
  • Consider over-the-counter remedies or dietary supplements to alleviate side effects.
  • Monitor your weight, blood sugar levels, and other relevant health indicators.
  • Be patient, as many side effects improve or resolve with continued use of the medication.
  • Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe or persistent side effects.

Myth 5: Weight-Loss Medications Interact Negatively with Other Medications

There is a misconception that weight-loss medications can interact negatively with other medications, leading to adverse effects or reduced efficacy. While it’s important to be mindful of potential drug interactions, healthcare providers can carefully assess your medical history and current medication regimen to determine the safest and most effective treatment plan. In many cases, weight-loss medications can be used alongside other medications without risks. However, it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking to prevent potential interactions.

Myth 6: Weight-Loss Medications are Unsafe and not FDA Approved

Some individuals may question the safety and legitimacy of weight-loss medications, particularly if they are not familiar with the regulatory process. It’s essential to understand that weight-loss medications like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide undergo rigorous testing and evaluation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before they are approved for use. FDA approval ensures these medications meet stringent safety standards based on scientific evidence. Furthermore, before prescribing weight-loss medications, healthcare providers carefully assess individual risk factors and monitor patients for any signs of adverse effects.

Myth 7: Weight-Loss Medications Are Suitable for Everyone

Weight-loss medications are not a one-size-fits-all solution and they may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions or contraindications may not be eligible for treatment with medications like Semaglutide or Tirzepatide. It’s crucial to consult a reliable provider before starting any weight-loss medication to assess potential risks and benefits based on your individual health profile. Your healthcare provider will consider factors such as medical history, current medications, and lifestyle factors to determine the most appropriate treatment.

ShedRx offers different weight-loss medications and doses so each person can discover what’s best for them.

You May Be a Candidate for Weight-Loss Medications If You:

  • Have a BMI of 30 or higher, indicating obesity
  • Have a BMI of 27 or higher with obesity-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes
  • Have a healthy BMI, but want to maintain your weight and prevent weight regain
  • Have tried to lose weight through lifestyle changes, but have not achieved the desired results
  • Are committed to adhering to a comprehensive weight-loss program
  • Have realistic expectations about the limitations of weight-loss medications
  • Have consulted with a healthcare provider to assess your overall health status
  • Are willing to participate in regular monitoring and follow-up appointments to track progress
  • Are willing to make the lifestyle changes needed to support weight loss

You May Not be a Candidate for Weight-Loss Medications If You:

  • Have a history of substance abuse or eating disorders
  • Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
  • Have contraindications like uncontrolled hypertension, heart disease, or thyroid disorders
  • Are unable or unwilling to adhere to the recommended treatment regimen
  • Have experienced severe allergic reactions or side effects to weight-loss medications in the past
  • Have unrealistic expectations about the potential outcomes of weight-loss medication

Kickstart Your Weight-Loss Journey With ShedRx

Embarking on a weight-loss journey can feel challenging, but ShedRx makes it easier than ever to take the first step toward achieving your goals. With our convenient telehealth platform, you can access weight-loss medications from the comfort of your own home. Our experienced healthcare providers will guide you through a virtual consultation, assessing your medical history, lifestyle factors, and weight-loss goals to determine the most suitable treatment plan for you.

During the consultation, our healthcare provider will discuss the available weight-loss medications, such as Semaglutide and Tirzepatide, and prescribe the appropriate dosage based on your individual needs. Once prescribed, we’ll promptly deliver the medications to your chosen address. Whether you’re struggling to lose weight or looking to enhance your progress, ShedRx is here to support you every step of the way. Schedule a telehealth consultation today.

Semaglutide helps to curb appetite and gain control over cravings to aid weight loss.

ShedRx

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At ShedRx, we are wholly focused on Health for Every Body—this is our North Star when making any and all decisions. Our priority is always your health, experience, and outcomes. We’re committed to providing the most effective solutions at affordable prices.

As many of you know, recent updates from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the drug shortage list have impacted the availability of certain compounded medications, primarily Tirzepatide. Because of these changes, some compounded forms of injectable Tirzepatide may soon no longer be available from pharmacies.

What Does This Mean for You?
At ShedRx, we are working closely with our pharmacy partners to ensure you continue to receive the care you need. For current customers, your Tirzepatide subscription remains unchanged at this time and we will continue to fulfill your orders. However, given these FDA updates, we recommend exploring alternative options now for a seamless transition as injectable Tirzepatide formulations become unavailable in the near future.

We are excited to offer new formulations of Tirzepatide, such as sublingual lozenges and oral liquid drops, which are effective and provide convenient alternatives to injections. Additionally, we encourage you to consider transitioning to one of our Semaglutide programs, which has been a proven option for weight loss. If you elect to change to a Semaglutide program, you’ll receive a 5% monthly discount and a free bottle of GLP-1 Boost!

What If I Want to Switch Programs Now?

If you’re interested in transitioning to a different program now, our team is here to help. To begin the process, please contact our Care Team who will work with your ShedRx provider to review your health history and assist you in finding the best alternative treatment option for your individual needs. Whether this means switching to one of our sublingual Tirzepatide lozenges, oral liquid drops, or transitioning to a Semaglutide program, we’ll make sure you have the support you need to make the right decision for your health and weight-loss goals.

Why Choose Our Options?

  • Affordability: We recognize the importance of affordability in your healthcare decisions. That’s why our alternative formulations are priced competitively to help you continue receiving effective treatments without added financial strain.
  • Effectiveness: Both our new Tirzepatide offerings and Semaglutide programs have track records of success. Additionally, our new GLP-1 Boost supplement has been shown in clinical trials to naturally increase GLP-1 levels by over 15%, supporting your weight-loss journey alongside these medications. Whether you choose to remain with Tirzepatide or switch to Semaglutide, you can feel confident knowing that you are using solutions proven to work.
  • Convenience: Our alternative Tirzepatide formulations, including easy-to-use sublingual lozenges and oral drops, provide flexibility and convenience while maintaining the effectiveness. These options make it simple to continue your treatment routine with minimal disruption.

About Compounded Tirzepatide Access
We understand that some of you may be concerned about accessing compounded Tirzepatide elsewhere. It’s important to note that these FDA regulations affect all companies and pharmacies nationwide. While you might encounter offers from other sources, filling prescriptions for compounded Tirzepatide outside FDA guidelines may not comply with current regulations. We want to keep you informed so you have the most up-to-date information regarding your healthcare options.

ShedRx’s Approach

At ShedRx, our mission is to help you reach your weight-loss goals through the best available products. That’s why we consistently strive to pair impactful medications with supplements like GLP-1 Boost and comprehensive coaching programs. We are committed to providing the tools and support you need to succeed on your journey.

Please reach out to our Care Team if you’d like to explore any of these options or if you have questions. We’re here to make your experience with ShedRx feel seamless, supported, and focused on your success.

For more information, visit our Help Center or contact our support team directly.

GLP-1 Boost is officially available through ShedRx! We’re here to go over the ins and outs of this weight-loss supplement, so you feel confident and ready to take advantage of this beneficial tool for your weight-loss journey.

What is GLP-1 Boost?

GLP-1 Boost is a supplement designed to enhance what your natural GLP-1s (glucagon-like peptide-1s) already do—help regulate blood sugar and appetite. It provides an alternative to injections, while still reaching your weight-loss goals. Each ingredient in Boost has been researched to work together and promote optimal metabolic health and support weight management. These ingredients include:

-Eriomin – A lemon-flavonoid antioxidant which encourages GLP-1 production and supports insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and gut health
-Berberine – Comes from Berberis aristata plant bark and helps enhance glucose metabolism and GLP-1 levels for better blood sugar control and reduced cravings
-Capsaicin – The active compound in chili peppers, boosts metabolism, curbs appetite and supports fat burning
-Vitamin B12 – Essential for energy production and a well-functioning metabolism in its bioavailable form

How does GLP-1 Boost work?

GLP-1 Boost provides production support. It stimulates your body’s own production of GLP-1, the hormone crucial for regulating appetite and glucose metabolism. With an increase in GLP-1s, appetite is then decreased and gastric emptying slows down. Because of these effects, the feeling of fullness lasts longer, which means it becomes more manageable to eat in a caloric deficit and shed pounds.

GLP-1 Boost can have a major impact on weight loss.

Why do I care about GLP-1 Boost?

Along with appetite control, GLP-1s play a major role in regulating glucose and insulin sensitivity. By supporting your body’s natural production of GLP-1s, you allow for sustainable weight loss and better metabolic health. In addition, food noise and cravings decrease, making it easier to control previous poor food habits, with less temptation, and increase weight loss.

From three published human clinical trials over 12 weeks, it was found that GLP-1 pathways and insulin sensitivity improved by 15%, insulin resistance decreased by 7%, and blood glucose levels were reduced by 5%. Another study, conducted by Supresa throughout eight weeks, showed decreased hunger by 69%, decreased appetite by 70%, and decrease in snacking events by 55%. This data shows the impact GLP-1 Boost can have on an individuals weight-loss journey.

Who can benefit from GLP-1 Boost?

Didn’t qualify for weight-loss medication? Wanting to curb cravings? Seeking weight loss at a slower pace? GLP-1 Boost is a great alternative for those who aren’t quite there with taking weight-loss medication, but still seeking for something that can help reach their goals. Whether for weight loss or simply to reduce food chatter, it can provide the kickstart you need to a healthier you.

How can I get GLP-1 Boost?

Now available online through the ShedRx store, GLP-1 Boost can be ordered right to your door! The weight-loss supplement is to be taken three times daily, 30 minutes before meals. We can’t wait to see what GLP-1 Boost can do for your weight-loss journey!

Why is there a temporary order processing delay?

At ShedRx, we’re always working to improve the quality of care and service we provide to you. As part of our commitment to enhancing your experience, we’ve recently upgraded our order management system to increase efficiency and ensure faster processing of every order. While this change will ultimately allow us to process orders in half the time, it has caused a temporary delay in order fulfillment.

How long will this delay last?

We expect this delay to be resolved within the next five business days. Once the transition is complete, you’ll notice a significant improvement in how quickly your orders are processed.

Who can help me?

In the meantime, if your order has been delayed, rest assured that our Care Team will work with you to adjust any future billing dates to account for this. For assistance, feel free to message our Care Team or email us. Our response time is 24-48 hours.

Our Care Team is working hard to respond to messages as quickly as possible. Please note, they work through messages in order of receipt, meaning that consecutive messages may cause further delays in response time. For more information, please reference the Help Center.

Will ShedRx do anything else for me during this time?

To thank you for your patience during this time, we will be crediting your account with $20. This statement credit will automatically apply to future ShedRx orders.

You can use this credit towards a discount on next month’s medication. This is our way of showing appreciation for your understanding and continued trust in ShedRx.

Thank you for your understanding and continued trust in ShedRx.

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