Alliance Industries Compounded Semaglutide

Semaglutide 

Semaglutide is approved for use in adults with type 2 diabetes to assist in managing blood sugar levels. It should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise. However, it's not recommended as the primary treatment for uncontrolled diabetes, where diet and exercise alone have not been successful. Also, it hasn't been tested in individuals with pancreatitis. It's not designed for those with type 1 diabetes or for treating diabetic ketoacidosis.

In the context of weight management, semaglutide is recommended for adults who are obese or overweight and have at least one weight-related health issue, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. The medication should be used in conjunction with a low-calorie diet and increased physical activity. It's also suitable for managing weight in pediatric patients 12 years and older who initially have a BMI at or above the 95th percentile for their age and gender.

Pharmacodynamics

Semaglutide is known to lower HbA1c, systolic blood pressure, and body weight. After 12 weeks of use, it has been shown to decrease fasting and post-meal glucose levels by stimulating the production of insulin and reducing glucagon secretion, which ordinarily raises blood sugar. It also decreases fasting triglycerides and VLDL cholesterol, leading to improved cardiovascular health.

Mechanisms of Action

Blood Glucose Control Mechanism

GLP-1, a natural hormone, helps regulate blood sugar through several methods including insulin secretion, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing glucagon secretion after meals. Blood sugar balance relies on hormones like insulin and amylin, produced by the pancreas. Semaglutide, which is 94% similar to human GLP-1, works like this hormone by encouraging insulin production and reducing glucagon secretion by interacting with pancreatic cells. It selectively binds to the GLP-1 receptor, triggering beneficial effects that lower blood glucose in a glucose-dependent way.

Cardiovascular Benefit and Weight Loss Mechanism

For patients with high cholesterol, semaglutide could potentially slow the progression of arteriosclerosis by reducing gut permeability and inflammation. The drug has also been associated with appetite suppression and a reduction in food cravings, which may lead to weight loss.

Potential concerns with semaglutide to speak to your healthcare provider about:

1. Gastrointestinal problems: These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. Semaglutide slows down gastric emptying, which can often result in gastrointestinal discomfort. 

2. Pancreatitis: There is a risk of inflammation of the pancreas, known as pancreatitis. Symptoms like severe abdominal pain radiating to the back should be reported to a healthcare professional immediately.

3. Dehydration: Semaglutide can sometimes lead to dehydration, particularly if the user experiences vomiting or diarrhea. It's crucial to stay hydrated while using this medication.

4. Hypoglycemia: When used in combination with other antidiabetic drugs (like sulfonylureas or insulin), semaglutide might cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

5. Thyroid Tumors: Rodent studies have indicated a risk of medullary thyroid cell carcinoma. Although it's unclear whether this risk extends to humans, it's advised not to administer this drug in those with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma.

6. Potential allergic reactions: These can range from rashes, itching, or hives to difficulty breathing or swallowing.

7. Kidney problems: In some cases, semaglutide may cause or worsen kidney problems.

8. Changes in vision: Some patients have experienced changes in eyesight due to swelling in the back of the eye.

These potential side effects underscore the importance of closely monitoring any changes and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers when taking semaglutide. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and they often subside as the body adjusts to the medication. However, if these side effects persist or worsen, the patient should promptly seek medical attention.