As the year draws to a close, many people begin reflecting on their goals and setting intentions for the new year. Health and weight loss are often at the top of New Year’s resolutions lists. At Longevity Care Clinic, the latest science-backed strategies are available to help make those resolutions a reality in 2026.

Therapeutic peptides have emerged as a powerful tool in improving health. For individuals who have struggled with pain or weight gain, especially when traditional treatments have fallen short, peptide therapy can offer a new path forward. Many patients have experienced significant improvements, including reduced pain and successful weight loss, through the use of peptides like semaglutide.

What is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is an FDA-approved medication in the peptide class, used for both weight loss and diabetes management. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as messengers in the body, regulating processes such as metabolism and inflammation. Medications like semaglutide are designed to mimic these natural peptides, triggering beneficial cellular responses.

How Semaglutide Works

Semaglutide functions as a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist. GLP-1 is a hormone released in the gut after eating, playing a key role in appetite regulation, blood sugar control, and cardiovascular health. By mimicking this hormone, semaglutide helps the body feel fuller for longer, making it easier to reduce calorie intake and support weight loss.

FDA-Approved for Weight Loss

In 2021, the FDA approved semaglutide (under the Wegovy brand) for chronic weight management. Clinical studies have shown that, when combined with healthy lifestyle changes, semaglutide can help individuals lose up to 15% of their starting weight over approximately 16 months. Additional benefits include improved heart health and mobility.

Originally Developed for Diabetes

Semaglutide was initially developed to help manage blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes (under the names Ozempic and Rybelsus). Many patients also experienced weight loss as a positive side effect, leading to its approval for weight management.

How Does Semaglutide Support Weight Loss?

Semaglutide supports weight loss through several mechanisms:

  • Reduces Appetite: Targets areas in the brain that control hunger, promoting a sense of fullness with less food.
  • Slows Digestion: Delays gastric emptying, resulting in prolonged satiety after meals.
  • Improves Blood Sugar: Stimulates the pancreas to release more insulin, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels—a key factor in both diabetes and weight management.

While semaglutide can be highly effective, it works best with healthy eating and regular physical activity. It is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but it can be transformative for many individuals.

Available Brands of Semaglutide

Semaglutide is available under several brand names:

  • Wegovy: FDA-approved for weight loss, administered as a weekly injection.
  • Ozempic: Approved for type 2 diabetes, often prescribed off-label for weight loss.
  • Rybelsus: An oral tablet for type 2 diabetes, sometimes used off-label for weight management.
  • Longevity Care Clinic In-House Semaglutide Tablets: In addition to the well-known brands, Longevity Care Clinic offers in-house, lab-made semaglutide tablets. These are formulated in a state-of-the-art compounding lab to ensure quality, consistency, and accessibility for patients seeking an alternative to injections or commercial tablets. The in-house option provides a convenient and effective way to incorporate semaglutide into a personalized weight loss plan, with the added benefit of direct oversight by the clinic’s medical team.

Potential Side Effects

Most individuals tolerate semaglutide well, though some may experience mild digestive symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea. These side effects are typically manageable with dose adjustments or supportive therapies. However, semaglutide is not suitable for everyone—those with certain medical conditions (such as a history of thyroid cancer or pancreatitis) should avoid it. Discussing medical history and goals with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new medication is important.

The Importance of a Comprehensive Approach

Lasting weight loss is best achieved by addressing the whole person. Peptides like semaglutide are most effective when combined with personalized nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes. The team at Longevity Care Clinic is dedicated to helping each individual uncover the root causes of weight gain and develop a plan tailored to their unique needs.

Ready to make 2026 your healthiest year yet?
 Discover if GLP-1 peptide therapy is right for you. Learn more about GLP-1 and schedule your consultation here.