Semaglutide

If you've been working hard to lose weight but the scale won't budge, you're not alone. Many patients find that diet and exercise alone aren't enough, especially when hormones, metabolism, or appetite make it feel like an uphill battle. Semaglutide is a prescription injection that may help by reducing hunger, slowing digestion, and supporting sustainable weight loss when combined with healthy habits.

At Physician Artistry, Dr. Bruce Thomas oversees every weight loss plan. This isn't a one-size-fits-all program. We monitor your progress, adjust your dosage, and make sure the treatment fits your body and your goals.

What Is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, a type of medication that mimics a hormone your body naturally produces to regulate blood sugar and appetite. Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, semaglutide has also been shown to support significant weight loss in patients with obesity or excess weight.

• Delivered as a once-weekly injection
• Works by signaling fullness to your brain and slowing how quickly food leaves your stomach
• May help reduce cravings and emotional eating
• Supports gradual, steady weight loss over several months

Semaglutide is not a quick fix. It works best when paired with a balanced diet, regular movement, and support from a medical team who knows your health history.

What to Expect

Dr. Thomas will review your medical history, current medications, and weight loss goals before prescribing semaglutide. If you're a good candidate, we'll start you on a low dose and gradually increase it to minimize side effects and find the right level for your body.

• Injections: Once weekly, administered at home with a pre-filled pen
• Dosage: Starts low and increases over 16-20 weeks based on your tolerance and progress
• Results timeline: Many patients begin to notice reduced appetite within the first few weeks. Weight loss typically becomes more noticeable after 8-12 weeks
• Follow-up: Regular check-ins with Dr. Thomas to monitor progress, adjust dosage, and address any concerns

Semaglutide is generally well tolerated, but some patients experience side effects, especially early on. The most common include nausea, constipation, diarrhea, and fatigue. These often improve as your body adjusts. Staying hydrated, eating smaller meals, and avoiding rich or fatty foods can help.

Who Semaglutide Is For

Semaglutide may be a good fit if you meet the following criteria:

• BMI of 30 or higher, or BMI of 27 or higher with a weight-related health condition like high blood pressure or prediabetes
• You've tried diet and exercise but haven't seen lasting results
• You're looking for physician-supervised support, not a DIY approach
• You're committed to making lifestyle changes alongside the medication
• You don't have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2

Semaglutide is not appropriate for everyone. Dr. Thomas will help determine if it's safe and effective for you based on your full health profile.

Why Physician Artistry for Semaglutide

Weight loss programs at chain clinics or telemedicine platforms can feel impersonal or transactional. At Physician Artistry, you're working directly with Dr. Thomas, a physician who takes the time to understand your health, your history, and what's really going on beneath the surface.

• Physician-led care from start to finish
• Individualized dosing and ongoing monitoring
• A whole-body approach that considers hormones, metabolism, and lifestyle
• No judgment, no pressure, just real support

We also offer hormone optimization and other treatments that may complement your weight loss goals. If something else is contributing to weight gain or difficulty losing weight, we'll help you address it.

Semaglutide can be a powerful tool when used the right way. If you're ready to explore whether it's right for you, call us at (703) 433-1700 or book a consultation online.