Understanding Ozempic

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. It helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduce appetite, which can lead to weight loss. Although it is primarily used for type 2 diabetes, it is also used off-label for weight loss due to its effectiveness in promoting weight reduction.

Prerequisites Before Using Ozempic

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Checklist of Prerequisite Labs and Referrals

1. Prerequisite Labs:

• Baseline Labs:
  • Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c): To assess blood sugar control.
  • Fasting Blood Glucose: To evaluate baseline glucose levels.
  • Lipid Panel: To check cholesterol levels.
  • Liver Function Tests (LFTs): To assess liver health.
  • Kidney Function Tests: Including serum creatinine and eGFR.
  • Thyroid Function Tests (TSH, Free T4): To rule out thyroid disorders.
  • Complete Blood Count (CBC): To check for any underlying hematological issues.
  • Electrolyte Panel: To ensure electrolyte balance.

2. Ongoing Monitoring Labs:

• Every 3-6 months:
  • HbA1c: To monitor glucose control.
  • Liver Function Tests: To monitor liver health.
  • Kidney Function Tests: To monitor kidney function.
  • Lipid Panel: To assess ongoing cholesterol levels.

3. Referrals:

• Nutritional Medicine:
  • Registered Dietitian: For personalized dietary advice and meal planning. Referrals to a dietitian are typically covered under Humana/Tricare.
• Behavioral Health:
  • Behavioral Therapist or Counselor: For addressing emotional eating, stress management, and psychological support. Referrals to behavioral health specialists are typically covered under Humana/Tricare.
• Disease Management:
  • Endocrinologist: If there are complex metabolic issues or if you have coexisting diabetes. Referrals to endocrinologists are typically covered under Humana/Tricare.
  • Fitness Professional: For developing a personalized exercise plan. This can often be coordinated through on-base fitness facilities or approved off-base providers.

Corresponding Timeline

Initial Evaluation (Week 1-2):

• Comprehensive medical history and physical examination.
• Baseline labs ordered and referrals made to dietitian, behavioral health, and fitness professional.

Lifestyle Modifications (Month 1-3):

• Begin dietary changes and exercise routine.
• Initial consultations with dietitian and behavioral therapist.
• Document previous weight loss efforts and set realistic goals.

Pre-Medication Check (Month 3-4):

• Review progress on lifestyle modifications.
• Repeat necessary labs to ensure no contraindications.
• Finalize decision on starting Ozempic based on progress and lab results.

Starting Ozempic (Month 4-6):

• Begin Ozempic under close supervision.
• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and side effects.
• Continue lifestyle modifications and support from dietitian and behavioral therapist.

Ongoing Monitoring (Every 3-6 months):

• Repeat HbA1c, liver function tests, kidney function tests, and lipid panel.
• Regular check-ins with dietitian and behavioral therapist.
• Adjust treatment plan as needed based on progress and lab results.