GLP-1 Medications

What Is Semaglutide? A Nurse Practitioner's Guide to GLP-1 Weight Loss

If you've been hearing a lot about semaglutide, Ozempic, Wegovy, or tirzepatide lately,

you're not alone. GLP-1 medications have transformed the landscape of medical weight loss

— and for good reason. As a Family Nurse Practitioner with full practice authority in Illinois,

I've seen firsthand how these medications change lives when used correctly, with proper

medical supervision.

What Is a GLP-1 Medication?

GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone your body naturally produces after

eating. It tells your brain you're full, slows gastric emptying, and helps regulate blood sugar.

Semaglutide (brand names Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) are

injectable medications that mimic and amplify this hormone — leading to significant,

sustained weight loss for many patients.

How Does It Work?

GLP-1 medications work through three primary mechanisms:

• Appetite suppression: They signal the brain's satiety center, dramatically reducing hunger

and food cravings.

• Slowed digestion: Food stays in your stomach longer, keeping you feeling full well after

meals.

• Improved insulin sensitivity: These medications help your body use insulin more effectively,

which is critical for metabolic health and sustainable fat loss.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

At Next Phase of Health in Glenview, we evaluate each patient individually. Generally, GLP-1

therapy may be appropriate for adults with a BMI of 27 or higher, especially those who also

have weight-related conditions such as pre-diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated

cholesterol, or metabolic syndrome. We also evaluate hormonal contributors to weight gain

— because sometimes your thyroid or hormone imbalance is working against your efforts,

and treating weight in isolation won't deliver lasting results.

What Results Can You Expect?

Clinical studies have shown that patients on semaglutide lose an average of 15% of their

body weight over 68 weeks, while tirzepatide has shown results exceeding 20% in some

trials. But weight loss numbers only tell part of the story. Our patients also report improved

energy levels, better sleep, reduced joint pain, improved blood sugar control, and a

dramatically improved relationship with food.

Is It Safe?

GLP-1 medications are FDA-approved and have been used for years in the management of

type 2 diabetes. Under proper medical supervision, they are safe and well-tolerated. The

most common side effects are gastrointestinal — nausea, bloating, or mild stomach upset —

which typically resolve as your body adjusts. We start all patients on low doses and titrate

slowly to minimize these effects.

Why Choose Next Phase of Health?

Our clinic is different because we look at the whole picture. Before recommending any

treatment, we review your labs, medical history, hormones, and metabolic markers. GLP-1

therapy is a powerful tool — but it works best when combined with a personalized plan that

addresses your unique physiology. We're located in Glenview, serving the entire North Shore

including Northbrook, Wilmette, Evanston, and surrounding communities.

Ready to find out if GLP-1 therapy is right for you? Call us at (847) 393-9591 or book a

consultation at nextphaseofhealth.com.