Family Physicians of Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
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Office Hours
| Monday: | 7:30am - 5:30pm |
| Tuesday: | 7:30am - 4:00pm |
| Wednesday: | 8:00am - 4:00pm |
| Thursday: | 7:30am - 5:30pm |
| Friday: | 8:00am - 12:00pm |
Being overweight or obese increases your risk for many diseases and conditions. The more you weigh, the more likely you are at risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, gallbladder disease, sleep apnea, arthritis, and certain cancers. On the other hand, a healthy weight has many benefits: It helps you to lower your risk for developing these problems, helps you to feel good about yourself, and gives you more energy to enjoy life. We offer weekly weight loss injections that target the area of the brain that influences your hunger level. These weight loss injections along with a healthy lifestyle have proven to be effective in weight loss.
Semaglutide - the brand name, Ozempic, has been around since FDA approval in 2017 to help patients manage their type 2 diabetes. We have been using it for over 5 years for our diabetic patients and have noted dramatic weight loss in our patients with minimal side effects. In 2021 the medication received FDA approval for weight loss under the brand name Wegovy. Semaglutide is the generic name for the medication Wegovy.
Tirzepatide - the brand name Mounjaro, was FDA approved in 2022 to help patients manage their type 2 diabetes. Mounjaro is expected to be FDA approved in 2023 for weight loss. Tirzepatide is the generic name for the medication Mounjaro.
These medications work on the parts of your brain that control appetite. When these areas are quieted down, you have reduced cravings and feel fuller sooner. When used in conjunction with a balanced diet and an active lifestyle, it can cause notable weight loss in people that are overweight or obese.
Is this right for you? We require a thorough consultation before being able to proceed with treatment. If you’re in overall good health without any untreated underlying conditions and meet the weight loss criteria, then most likely the answer is yes!
We want to make sure people are choosing this route because it’s an appropriate fit. While the medication is extremely safe and effective, there are also some side effects some people may experience, such as constipation and diarrhea when they begin, or as they increase their dose. We will recommend steps to reduce your side effects. The primary goal we are hoping to achieve is a reduction in portions and a reduction in unnecessary snacking. The sensation is similar to the full feeling after Thanksgiving dinner, and you need to eat very little to achieve this!
This also isn’t a forever medication. Ideally, you’ll be on it long enough to achieve your weight loss goals, maintain for a bit, and then stop. You can resume the medication in the future if needed.
If you would like to learn more contact us to schedule an appointment for a consultation.
| Monday: | 7:30am - 5:30pm |
| Tuesday: | 7:30am - 4:00pm |
| Wednesday: | 8:00am - 4:00pm |
| Thursday: | 7:30am - 5:30pm |
| Friday: | 8:00am - 12:00pm |