Medical weight management packages

We all know that diet and exercise are critical in our efforts to maintain a healthy weight and live a long and prosperous life. For some, additional support may be required to help maintain adequate insulin and blood sugar levels, healthy hormonal support (female and male hormones, human growth hormone, ghrelin and other peptides that influence metabolism, satiety and lean muscle mass), and biochemical support that allows one to have less cravings and feel more satiated. When diet and exercise simply aren’t enough and thyroid levels are found to be within normal range, pharmaceutical intervention may be considered. 

Below are some options that may be available by prescription to established naturopathic patients of Dr. Danielle at Sonoma Roots Natural Medicine:

​

Medical Weight Management and Aging Gracefully Therapies:

Sermorelin Peptide Therapy: 
Sermorelin is a peptide that stimulates the production of HGH within the pituitary gland. Having adequate levels of HGH in the body can improve metabolism, lean muscle mass, stamina, sleep, cravings, the appearance of hair, skin and nails and more. 

There are very few side effects associated with the nightly use of Sermorelin, and most subside after the first few weeks of therapy. Sermorelin, specifically, has side effects that are mainly gastrointestinal in nature. Those who have uncontrolled diabetes, history of pituitary or other cancers, and pregnant women should not use this product.

Sermorelin is administered via subcutaneous injections each night before bed. Sermorelin therapy is typically recommended for a minimum of 6-7 month duration and can often lead to a 10-15% reduction in body fat percentage at the end of a 7 month protocol.


Semaglutide Peptide Therapy:
Known by more popular brand names, such as Wegovy, Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) agonist that works in various ways to improve glycemic control in those with type 2 diabetes and treat weight gain in those who are classified as being overweight (BMI >27)  and obese (BMI 30 and above).. Specifically it works by improving insulin secretion and enhancing insulin sensitivity of tissues, thus lowering blood sugar. Semaglutide also delays gastric-emptying by reducing glucagon secretion, thus reducing appetite, improving control of eating, and reducing food intake, all of which can lower HbA1c levels and produce significant weight loss.

In the New England Journal of Medicine’s publication of the STEP Trial, the study revealed that 50% of trial participants lost 15 percent of their body weight, and between 33 – 40% of participants lost 20 percent of their body weight, which is a major improvement from the placebo group of just 2.4% loss in body weight.

Semaglutide requires that an adult meet criteria for use. One of the main requirements is having a BMI of 30 or above, or an BMI of at least 27 with one or more weight-related problems, such as high cholesterol, high blood sugar, and hypertension. Common side effects of Semaglutide include gastrointestinal problems, mainly nausea and vomiting. For this reason, this medication is typically paired with Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) for better tolerability, although it is not uncommon for one to experience mild to moderate nausea during the first month of therapy. 

Semaglutide is administered as a once a week injectable,  in which the dose is increased monthly until the target dose of 2.4 mg is achieved. Therapy is continued until a desired amount of weight is lost, and maintenance doses may be suggested.

Semaglutide risks: Other risks include irritation at the injection site, particularly if injected in the same area. Those who are pregnant, have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) history, or a history of multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome (MEN 2) should not use this product.

Monthly follow-up visits (<15 minutes) are required while on the above peptide therapies for proper observation and prescription maintenance. 

Other Therapies to Consider:

Low Dose Naltrexone:
Naltrexone was first approved by the FDA in 1984 to treat opioid addiction. Later on, it was discovered that low-dose naltrexone (LDN)---low dose being one-tenth of naltrexone’s usual dose---has anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects. LDN appears to be safe with few side effects and no abuse potential. It is also cost-effective because only a small amount is needed. Research on LDN also demonstrated improvements in other diseases.   

LDN appears to contribute to weight loss by a number of mechanisms. Studies have shown that LDN may help curb your appetite by reducing the appeal of food. As a result, you start losing your cravings for food. LDN may also aid in increasing the body’s growth hormone levels. Growth hormone helps in weight loss by facilitating the building of lean muscles and burning of fats. Insulin resistance is another issue. It contributes to weight gain, obesity, and a number of other diseases like diabetes, heart attacks, and strokes. LDN helps reduce insulin resistance therefore, not only does it have the potential to help with weight loss, but it may also address other potential diseases!  

LDN is available by prescription and is available in capsules and the dosage is to be increased slowly. Once up to a dose of 4.5mg or above, LDN can be combined with other natural agents often used in weight management formulas. 



B12/MIC/carnitine injections:
Also known as the “Slim Booster”, this combination of essential amino acids and B vitamins have shown to help utilize and break down fats for more efficient use, and thus may aid in weight management control in some individuals.

Methionine, an essential amino acid, helps the liver breakdown fats, lowers cholesterol, relieves fatigue and helps allergies by lowering histamine release. Inositol, a B vitamin, helps the breakdown of fats, lowers cholesterol, and helps control mood and appetite. Choline, an essential nutrient, helps the liver breakdown fats and excrete toxins. B12, a vitamin that boosts energy and overall metabolic rate, assists in the burning of stored body fat, helps detox, and helps regulate sleep, mood, and appetite. The addition of L-Carnitine will assist in converting body fat to fuel and elevate certain enzymes needed to metabolize sugars, starches, and other carbohydrates. It is used to facilitate fatty acid oxidation, aiding in the reduction of body fat, both systemically and site specifically.

MIC B12 + L Carnitine is generally well tolerated and popular among those looking for weight loss, improved mood, and energy levels. Common side effects include pain/redness/swelling at the injection site.

The cost of B12/MIC/Carnitine shots vary depending on the number of ingredients and doses used. Each injection may range $25-$65. Typical protocols of this form of therapy are weekly or twice monthly depending on other weight management efforts being implemented.

​
Schedule a consultation with our doctor to discuss your weight management options:
If you are interested in discussing any of the weight management or Aging Gracefully medications listed in this article, please call Sonoma Roots to book the appropriate visit type. Patients that have not established naturopathic care are able to book a New Patient Weight Management consultation to determine which of the above options is most appropriate ($135 for a 20minute visit). 

Patients who have established naturopathic care at our clinic will only need a follow-up visit to discuss these options.

Book a consultation here