Everything You Need to Know About the O-Shot and M-Shot
By: The Hidden Epidemic of Sexual Health and What We Can Do
Tempe 480.968.5673
Glendale 602.374.3374
Phoenix 602.441.3305
Chandler480.447.1165
Tempe 480.968.5673
Glendale 602.374.3374
Phoenix 602.441.3305
Chandler480.447.1165
By: You’ve seen it everywhere. TikTok influencers are raving about their results. Celebrities crediting their dramatic transformations to it. News headlines about global shortages. Your coworker lost 40 pounds on it. Your doctor mentioned it at your last appointment. GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide are everywhere, and the hype
You’ve seen it everywhere. TikTok influencers are raving about their results. Celebrities crediting their dramatic transformations to it. News headlines about global shortages. Your coworker lost 40 pounds on it. Your doctor mentioned it at your last appointment.
GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide are everywhere, and the hype is real. But you’ve been burned before. You’ve tried the cabbage soup diet, the grapefruit diet, the keto craze, the juice cleanses, the waist trainers, the “miracle” supplements that promised everything and delivered nothing.
So, you’re sceptical. And you should be.
Is GLP-1 just another weight loss fad that will disappear in a few years, leaving you disappointed and back where you started? Or is this actually different?
At Valley Medical Weight Loss, we’ve been helping patients lose weight for over 15 years. We’ve seen countless weight loss trends come and go. And we’re here to tell you: GLP-1 is not a fad. It’s a legitimate, science-backed breakthrough in weight loss medicine.
Here’s why GLP-1 is different, how it works, what you can expect, and answers to the most frequently asked questions we hear from patients every day.
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1. It’s a class of medications that includes semaglutide (brand names: Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (brand name: Mounjaro, Zepbound).
Here’s the first thing you need to know: GLP-1 medications have been used for over 15 years to treat Type 2 diabetes. They’re not some untested, experimental drug that just hit the market. They have a long track record of safety and effectiveness.
What’s new is the use of GLP-1 medications specifically for weight loss in people without diabetes. The FDA approved semaglutide for weight loss (under the brand name Wegovy) in 2021, and tirzepatide (Zepbound) in 2023.
Unlike older weight loss medications like phentermine (a stimulant that can be habit-forming and cause jitters, anxiety, and insomnia), GLP-1 medications are:
This is the key difference between GLP-1 and fad diets or quick-fix weight loss gimmicks.
GLP-1 medications work on key underlying metabolic pathways that regulate hunger, appetite, blood sugar, and fat storage. They don’t just suppress your appetite or speed up your metabolism temporarily. They address the biological mechanisms that make it so hard to lose weight and keep it off.
GLP-1 medications work on the same receptors as powerful, naturally occurring GLP-1 hormones that exist in your body. These hormones play a critical role in:
In other words, GLP-1 doesn’t just help you lose weight. It helps you live a longer, healthier life.
GLP-1 medications mimic the naturally occurring gut hormone GLP-1, which your body produces in response to eating. This hormone regulates insulin and blood sugar levels, which is why GLP-1 medications were originally developed to treat Type 2 diabetes.
But GLP-1 does much more than regulate blood sugar. Here’s how it supports weight loss:
GLP-1 acts on receptors in your brain (specifically the hypothalamus) that control hunger and satiety. When you take GLP-1, your brain receives signals that you’re full and satisfied, even if you haven’t eaten much.
This isn’t willpower. It’s biology. GLP-1 literally changes the way your brain responds to food.
Many patients report that their cravings for sugary, high-calorie foods disappear on GLP-1. You stop thinking about food constantly. You don’t feel the urge to snack between meals. You can walk past the break room doughnuts without a second thought.
This is because GLP-1 reduces the reward response in your brain associated with food. Food becomes fuel, not an obsession.
GLP-1 slows gastric emptying, which means food stays in your stomach longer. This helps you feel full and satisfied for hours after eating, reducing the urge to snack or overeat.
Because GLP-1 slows digestion and suppresses appetite, you naturally eat less without feeling deprived or hungry. You’re satisfied with smaller portions, and you don’t experience the intense hunger that sabotages most diets.
GLP-1 helps your body use insulin more effectively, which stabilises blood sugar levels. Stable blood sugar means:
GLP-1 has far-reaching benefits beyond weight loss. Studies show that GLP-1 medications:
This is why GLP-1 is not just a weight loss medication. It’s a medication that helps you lose weight and live a longer, healthier life.
Subscribe for expert insights on building confidence, overcoming mental barriers, and achieving lasting weight loss success. Join patients who are transforming both body and mind.Join our newsletter for expert insights on treating melasma, hyperpigmentation, and other skin concerns. Our medical aesthetic team shares practical advice to help you achieve clear, radiant skin.
Let’s be honest: GLP-1 is not a rapid solution for losing weight. You won’t lose 20 pounds in two weeks. You won’t wake up skinny after your first injection.
And that’s actually a good thing.
If you’ve ever lost weight quickly on a crash diet, you know what happens next: you gain it all back (and then some). Rapid weight loss is almost always followed by rapid weight regain.
Why? Because rapid weight loss doesn’t give your body time to adjust. Your metabolism slows down, your hunger hormones go haywire, and your body fights to regain the weight.
GLP-1 supports incremental, steady weight loss at a rate of 1-2 pounds per week. This may not sound exciting, but it’s the gold standard for sustainable weight loss.
Losing weight slowly gives your body time to:
Most patients lose 15-20% of their body weight over 6-12 months on GLP-1. For a 200-pound person, that’s 30-40 pounds. For a 250-pound person, that’s 37-50 pounds.
That’s life-changing weight loss. And because it’s gradual, it’s sustainable.
We hear you. You want results, and you want them now.
The good news is that while GLP-1 works best as a gradual, steady weight loss tool, there are several things you can do to lose weight faster while taking GLP-1.
GLP-1 works even if you don’t change your diet or exercise habits. You’ll still lose weight because GLP-1 suppresses your appetite and regulates your metabolism.
But if you want to maximise your results and lose weight faster, we strongly encourage you to make a few changes.
Many of our patients personalise their wellness journey by taking their weekly shot in combination with other scientifically proven strategies, including:
Focus on:
Aim for:
Exercise not only accelerates weight loss but also preserves muscle mass, which is critical for maintaining your metabolism.
Don’t underestimate the power of:
Optimise your results with:
At Valley Medical Weight Loss, we offer comprehensive programs that combine GLP-1 with all of these strategies to help you lose weight faster and keep it off for life.
Maybe. It depends on your body mass index (BMI) and your timeline.
GLP-1 is typically started at a low dose and gradually increased (titrated) over several weeks to minimise side effects. It usually takes 2-3 months to reach the full therapeutic dose.
So, if you have 10 pounds to lose for a wedding or special event that is at least a few months away, and your BMI is above 27, GLP-1 may be an option.
We have other options to explore, including:
At Valley Medical Weight Loss, we tailor your weight loss plan to your unique needs and goals.
Not crazy about the thought of getting an injection every week? We hear you!
Unfortunately, GLP-1 medications are currently only available as weekly injections (or, in some cases, daily injections for lower doses). There is no daily pill option available at Valley Medical Weight Loss at this time.
Here’s the truth: most patients are nervous about the injection at first, but they quickly get used to it. Here’s why:
Most patients tell us the injection is no big deal, and the results are absolutely worth it.
Depending on your individual health, you may be advised not to drink or to drink in moderation and with food.
GLP-1 slows digestion, which means alcohol stays in your system longer. This can increase the risk of:
Interestingly, many patients who take GLP-1 report that their cravings for alcohol decrease or disappear entirely. While this isn’t scientifically proven, it’s a common side effect that many patients appreciate.
If you drink alcohol, we recommend:
GLP-1 is a weekly commitment to yourself. Consistency is key for lasting results, so aim to take it on the same day every week. It can be taken any time of day, with or without meals.
If you go on vacation, have the flu, or have a crazy busy week, you can take your missed dose within 5 days of your weekly injection date. Just be mindful that this will move your weekly injection date.
If more than 5 days have passed, you should skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
If you miss multiple weeks, we will discuss whether to adjust your dose. You will likely need to begin again at the starting dose to minimise side effects.
If you will be out of town or want to adjust your weekly injection date, you may be able to take your injection a few days early. We will advise on the best method of adjusting your injections.
Did you know that the average woman spends 17 years of her life on a diet? This may leave you feeling exhausted thinking about keeping a food journal, meal planning, and counting calories.
The good news is that there are no outlined dietary rules or forbidden foods for taking GLP-1. It is designed to be taken in conjunction with a healthy diet and daily exercise, but you don’t have to follow a restrictive meal plan.
If it’s easier, replace the word “diet” with “nutrition” and base your daily nutrition around whole foods that are unprocessed or minimally processed.
Prioritize:
Limit:
Many patients find that GLP-1 naturally guides them toward healthier food choices. You may notice that:
Trust your body and eat what makes you feel good.
We’ve covered many of the positive side effects. Now let’s discuss the negative side effects.
GLP-1 is a non-habit-forming, non-stimulant prescription that is generally safe and effective. Most patients have little to no symptoms.
About 50% of patients experience mild nausea, especially when starting GLP-1 or increasing the dose. As your body adjusts to your tiered weekly dose, the symptoms are likely to subside.
Most patients find that side effects are mild and temporary, and the benefits far outweigh any discomfort.
Since GLP-1 is rarely covered by insurance if you aren’t diabetic, the cash price for the brand-name prescription is up to $1,400 per month.
But not at Valley Medical Weight Loss.
At Valley Medical Weight Loss, we offer GLP-1 starting at:
Our weekly and monthly programs are a comprehensive approach that includes personalised and scientifically proven strategies for losing weight.
We understand how busy your schedule is, and that you may not easily be able to come in for your injection at the same time every week.
Not to worry, no appointment is required!
Walk Into Any of Our Four Valley Locations
Walk-In Hours: Mon–Fri: New patients until 4:30 PM, existing patients until 5:30 PM; Sat: until 2:30 PM; Sun: Closed.
No. GLP-1 is not a fad. It’s a legitimate, science-backed breakthrough in weight loss medicine that has been used safely and effectively for over 15 years.
GLP-1 is different because it:
At Valley Medical Weight Loss, we’ve helped thousands of patients achieve life-changing results with GLP-1. And we’re here to help you, too.
By Dr. Samuel Zuniga, ND
Valley Medical Weight Loss | Chandler, Arizona
You’ve seen it everywhere. TikTok influencers are raving about their results. Celebrities crediting their dramatic transformations to it. News headlines about global shortages. Your coworker lost 40 pounds on it. Your doctor mentioned it at your last appointment.
GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide are everywhere, and the hype is real. But you’ve been burned before. You’ve tried the cabbage soup diet, the grapefruit diet, the keto craze, the juice cleanses, the waist trainers, the “miracle” supplements that promised everything and delivered nothing.
So, you’re sceptical. And you should be.
Is GLP-1 just another weight loss fad that will disappear in a few years, leaving you disappointed and back where you started? Or is this actually different?
At Valley Medical Weight Loss, we’ve been helping patients lose weight for over 15 years. We’ve seen countless weight loss trends come and go. And we’re here to tell you: GLP-1 is not a fad. It’s a legitimate, science-backed breakthrough in weight loss medicine.
Here’s why GLP-1 is different, how it works, what you can expect, and answers to the most frequently asked questions we hear from patients every day.
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1. It’s a class of medications that includes semaglutide (brand names: Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (brand name: Mounjaro, Zepbound).
Here’s the first thing you need to know: GLP-1 medications have been used for over 15 years to treat Type 2 diabetes. They’re not some untested, experimental drug that just hit the market. They have a long track record of safety and effectiveness.
What’s new is the use of GLP-1 medications specifically for weight loss in people without diabetes. The FDA approved semaglutide for weight loss (under the brand name Wegovy) in 2021, and tirzepatide (Zepbound) in 2023.
Unlike older weight loss medications like phentermine (a stimulant that can be habit-forming and cause jitters, anxiety, and insomnia), GLP-1 medications are:
This is the key difference between GLP-1 and fad diets or quick-fix weight loss gimmicks.
GLP-1 medications work on key underlying metabolic pathways that regulate hunger, appetite, blood sugar, and fat storage. They don’t just suppress your appetite or speed up your metabolism temporarily. They address the biological mechanisms that make it so hard to lose weight and keep it off.
GLP-1 medications work on the same receptors as powerful, naturally occurring GLP-1 hormones that exist in your body. These hormones play a critical role in:
In other words, GLP-1 doesn’t just help you lose weight. It helps you live a longer, healthier life.
GLP-1 medications mimic the naturally occurring gut hormone GLP-1, which your body produces in response to eating. This hormone regulates insulin and blood sugar levels, which is why GLP-1 medications were originally developed to treat Type 2 diabetes.
But GLP-1 does much more than regulate blood sugar. Here’s how it supports weight loss:
GLP-1 acts on receptors in your brain (specifically the hypothalamus) that control hunger and satiety. When you take GLP-1, your brain receives signals that you’re full and satisfied, even if you haven’t eaten much.
This isn’t willpower. It’s biology. GLP-1 literally changes the way your brain responds to food.
Many patients report that their cravings for sugary, high-calorie foods disappear on GLP-1. You stop thinking about food constantly. You don’t feel the urge to snack between meals. You can walk past the break room doughnuts without a second thought.
This is because GLP-1 reduces the reward response in your brain associated with food. Food becomes fuel, not an obsession.
GLP-1 slows gastric emptying, which means food stays in your stomach longer. This helps you feel full and satisfied for hours after eating, reducing the urge to snack or overeat.
Because GLP-1 slows digestion and suppresses appetite, you naturally eat less without feeling deprived or hungry. You’re satisfied with smaller portions, and you don’t experience the intense hunger that sabotages most diets.
GLP-1 helps your body use insulin more effectively, which stabilises blood sugar levels. Stable blood sugar means:
GLP-1 has far-reaching benefits beyond weight loss. Studies show that GLP-1 medications:
This is why GLP-1 is not just a weight loss medication. It’s a medication that helps you lose weight and live a longer, healthier life.
Subscribe for expert insights on building confidence, overcoming mental barriers, and achieving lasting weight loss success. Join patients who are transforming both body and mind.Join our newsletter for expert insights on treating melasma, hyperpigmentation, and other skin concerns. Our medical aesthetic team shares practical advice to help you achieve clear, radiant skin.
Let’s be honest: GLP-1 is not a rapid solution for losing weight. You won’t lose 20 pounds in two weeks. You won’t wake up skinny after your first injection.
And that’s actually a good thing.
If you’ve ever lost weight quickly on a crash diet, you know what happens next: you gain it all back (and then some). Rapid weight loss is almost always followed by rapid weight regain.
Why? Because rapid weight loss doesn’t give your body time to adjust. Your metabolism slows down, your hunger hormones go haywire, and your body fights to regain the weight.
GLP-1 supports incremental, steady weight loss at a rate of 1-2 pounds per week. This may not sound exciting, but it’s the gold standard for sustainable weight loss.
Losing weight slowly gives your body time to:
Most patients lose 15-20% of their body weight over 6-12 months on GLP-1. For a 200-pound person, that’s 30-40 pounds. For a 250-pound person, that’s 37-50 pounds.
That’s life-changing weight loss. And because it’s gradual, it’s sustainable.
We hear you. You want results, and you want them now.
The good news is that while GLP-1 works best as a gradual, steady weight loss tool, there are several things you can do to lose weight faster while taking GLP-1.
GLP-1 works even if you don’t change your diet or exercise habits. You’ll still lose weight because GLP-1 suppresses your appetite and regulates your metabolism.
But if you want to maximise your results and lose weight faster, we strongly encourage you to make a few changes.
Many of our patients personalise their wellness journey by taking their weekly shot in combination with other scientifically proven strategies, including:
Focus on:
Aim for:
Exercise not only accelerates weight loss but also preserves muscle mass, which is critical for maintaining your metabolism.
Don’t underestimate the power of:
Optimise your results with:
At Valley Medical Weight Loss, we offer comprehensive programs that combine GLP-1 with all of these strategies to help you lose weight faster and keep it off for life.
Maybe. It depends on your body mass index (BMI) and your timeline.
GLP-1 is typically started at a low dose and gradually increased (titrated) over several weeks to minimise side effects. It usually takes 2-3 months to reach the full therapeutic dose.
So, if you have 10 pounds to lose for a wedding or special event that is at least a few months away, and your BMI is above 27, GLP-1 may be an option.
We have other options to explore, including:
At Valley Medical Weight Loss, we tailor your weight loss plan to your unique needs and goals.
Not crazy about the thought of getting an injection every week? We hear you!
Unfortunately, GLP-1 medications are currently only available as weekly injections (or, in some cases, daily injections for lower doses). There is no daily pill option available at Valley Medical Weight Loss at this time.
Here’s the truth: most patients are nervous about the injection at first, but they quickly get used to it. Here’s why:
Most patients tell us the injection is no big deal, and the results are absolutely worth it.
Depending on your individual health, you may be advised not to drink or to drink in moderation and with food.
GLP-1 slows digestion, which means alcohol stays in your system longer. This can increase the risk of:
Interestingly, many patients who take GLP-1 report that their cravings for alcohol decrease or disappear entirely. While this isn’t scientifically proven, it’s a common side effect that many patients appreciate.
If you drink alcohol, we recommend:
GLP-1 is a weekly commitment to yourself. Consistency is key for lasting results, so aim to take it on the same day every week. It can be taken any time of day, with or without meals.
If you go on vacation, have the flu, or have a crazy busy week, you can take your missed dose within 5 days of your weekly injection date. Just be mindful that this will move your weekly injection date.
If more than 5 days have passed, you should skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
If you miss multiple weeks, we will discuss whether to adjust your dose. You will likely need to begin again at the starting dose to minimise side effects.
If you will be out of town or want to adjust your weekly injection date, you may be able to take your injection a few days early. We will advise on the best method of adjusting your injections.
Did you know that the average woman spends 17 years of her life on a diet? This may leave you feeling exhausted thinking about keeping a food journal, meal planning, and counting calories.
The good news is that there are no outlined dietary rules or forbidden foods for taking GLP-1. It is designed to be taken in conjunction with a healthy diet and daily exercise, but you don’t have to follow a restrictive meal plan.
If it’s easier, replace the word “diet” with “nutrition” and base your daily nutrition around whole foods that are unprocessed or minimally processed.
Prioritize:
Limit:
Many patients find that GLP-1 naturally guides them toward healthier food choices. You may notice that:
Trust your body and eat what makes you feel good.
We’ve covered many of the positive side effects. Now let’s discuss the negative side effects.
GLP-1 is a non-habit-forming, non-stimulant prescription that is generally safe and effective. Most patients have little to no symptoms.
About 50% of patients experience mild nausea, especially when starting GLP-1 or increasing the dose. As your body adjusts to your tiered weekly dose, the symptoms are likely to subside.
Most patients find that side effects are mild and temporary, and the benefits far outweigh any discomfort.
Since GLP-1 is rarely covered by insurance if you aren’t diabetic, the cash price for the brand-name prescription is up to $1,400 per month.
But not at Valley Medical Weight Loss.
At Valley Medical Weight Loss, we offer GLP-1 starting at:
Our weekly and monthly programs are a comprehensive approach that includes personalised and scientifically proven strategies for losing weight.
We understand how busy your schedule is, and that you may not easily be able to come in for your injection at the same time every week.
Not to worry, no appointment is required!
Walk Into Any of Our Four Valley Locations
Walk-In Hours: Mon–Fri: New patients until 4:30 PM, existing patients until 5:30 PM; Sat: until 2:30 PM; Sun: Closed.
No. GLP-1 is not a fad. It’s a legitimate, science-backed breakthrough in weight loss medicine that has been used safely and effectively for over 15 years.
GLP-1 is different because it:
At Valley Medical Weight Loss, we’ve helped thousands of patients achieve life-changing results with GLP-1. And we’re here to help you, too.
By: The Hidden Epidemic of Sexual Health and What We Can Do
By: Health and wellness technology has exploded in recent years. From smartwatches
How to Stay Motivated with Slow Weight Loss By: You’re doing everything
M, Tues, Thurs, F: 9axm-4:30pm
Sat: 8am-1:30pm
Wed, Sun: Closed