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By Dr. Marguerite Weston |

Episode 4: The Skinny On Prescription Weight Loss Injections

What To Know About Those Shots You Keep Hearing About 

The Skinny On Prescription Weight Loss Injections

Weight loss injections. You know the ones. They are everywhere right now! But as you know, you can’t always trust everything you see on social media or read in headlines.

In this episode of Asking For A Friend, host Carrie Esposito is joined by Dr. Marguerite Weston, Dr. Katie D’Amato and aesthetic treatment expert Adrienne Yanich, MSN, to explore the truth behind semaglutide, tirzepatide and how these medications can impact your body and mind.

With decades of combined clinical experience, our providers have a few drinks, break down the science and share real-life patient outcomes!

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Patient using compounded semaglutide

But First — What Are These Shots?

Semaglutide (when sold as brand-name medications like Ozempic® or Wegovy®) and tirzepatide (marketed as Mounjaro® or Zepbound®) are injectable medications originally developed for type 2 diabetes and now FDA-approved for weight loss under specific circumstances. While slightly different in how they work, both mimic hormones that help regulate blood sugar and appetite.

Yes, they are effective. And yes, they’re generally safe when prescribed, monitored and titrated by a professional. But they’re not magic: pairing them with lifestyle changes is the real key to long-term results.

Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide 

Why You Hear the Word “Compounded” So Often

Compounded medications are custom-made versions of drugs prepared by specialized pharmacies to meet individual patient needs, often when commercial options are unavailable or not quite the right fit. Some patients explore compounded versions of semaglutide due to cost. However, it’s important to note that compounded GLP-1 medications are not FDA-approved, and their safety or efficacy may vary. These should only be prescribed under the care of a licensed provider, and never purchased online or used without supervision.

Clinical Note: The compounded formulations of these medications are not FDA-approved for weight loss.

“These medications are effective! I’ve seen them change my patients’ lives in a profound way. We just really don’t think you should buy them online with no professional guidance.”

-Dr. Marguerite Weston | Functional Medicine Expert

We Cannot Stress This Enough: Not All Compounded Products Are Created Equal!

Where you get your medication matters when seeking compounded semaglutide. If you’re not getting it from a well-vetted source, you may be putting your health at risk. Always ask your provider why they recommend a specific pharmacy, how long they’ve worked with them and if there have been any supply issues in the past.

A reputable pharmacy will follow proper compounding protocols, sterility standards and dosing guidelines. While some patients report positive results, compounded versions are not considered interchangeable with FDA-approved drugs and may carry unique risks.

Dr. Weston discussing hormone therapy with a perimenopause patient

These Shots Can Also Be Used As Strong Motivators

One of the most powerful aspects of these medications is how quickly people can start seeing results, which often gives them the confidence to keep going. They’re not a standalone solution, but they can be an amazing jumpstart when paired with nutrition support, movement and self-awareness.

“It can make you more cognizant about your body and help you get to a place where you feel comfortable going for longer walks. It helps patients begin to identify as ‘someone who moves’ — even if they never thought exercise was for them.”

-Dr. Katie | Physical Therapist

Semaglutide & Food Noise: Quieting The Anxious Internal Monologue

If you have issues with “food noise,” you know exactly what we’re talking about! It’s that constant mental chatter around food — thinking about your next meal, your cravings, your calorie counts. These medications have been shown to help reduce that noise by targeting the hunger pathways in your brain, allowing people to make more mindful choices without the mental overwhelm.

Let’s Clear The Static Together

This episode is for you if you’ve been curious about how weight loss injections work, you’re struggling with weight loss or you want to separate the real-deal supplements from the snake oil. You’ll enjoy this one, whether you’re on a health journey or just trying to understand all the noise!

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The Skinny On Prescription Weight Loss Injections | Asking For A Friend

 

Regulatory Disclaimer

This podcast episode and article are for educational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Any decisions involving GLP-1 medications, including brand-name or compounded versions, should be made in consultation with a licensed medical professional. Donaldson Plastic Surgery does not provide brand-name GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro® or Zepbound®. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved and may carry different risks than their branded counterparts. We do not present compounded medications as a substitute for FDA-approved therapies. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. They are only prescribed following individualized clinical evaluation, in accordance with current regulatory guidance.

About The “Asking For A Friend” Podcast

Asking For A Friend is where real questions get real answers, especially the ones you’re too embarrassed to ask out loud. Our providers share medically sound advice in a relatable, candid way that makes you feel seen and supported.

No question is off the table — because chances are, if you’re wondering about it, so is someone else!

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