Any further updates on Tirzepatide/Semaglutide?

[RS923]

Hi! I am considering starting medication to help with weight loss and associated elevated BP. Is there any new info available with regard to breastfeeding? I have a 3 year old who still nurses 1-2x daily for nap/bedtime. I’m trying to wean, but it’s a drawn out process. It seems like the molecular weight is too high to pass through to the milk, but are there other concerns with older children? I’m not sure I need to be worried about production/quality since this isn’t his main source of food, but I don’t want to overlook anything either.

Thank you!

[kaytlin]

Hi there,

We published a study on semaglutide less than 2 weeks ago! It is open access so anyone can read it (link below).

TL;DR I don't worry about it for babies who are old enough to get most nutrients outside of your milk. We didn't find semaglutide in the milk--there is still research to be done on how your calorie/nutrient restriction impacts the nutrient content of your milk. Regardless, it usually takes months to get to a high enough dose that this would be an issue.

[url]https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/17/2886[/url]

Dr. Krutsch, PhD, PharmD

[RS923]

Thanks so much, Dr. Krutsch! I will head over to that link

[TheAestheticMD]

Yes, clinical studies and real-world use confirm that semaglutide is highly effective for significant weight loss. It's not just an ordinary appetite suppressant.

It works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 that your body naturally produces. This hormone works in several ways:

1. Brain: It targets appetite centers in your brain to increase feelings of fullness (satiety) and reduce hunger signals.
2. Stomach: It slows down digestion, so food empties from your stomach more slowly. This helps you feel physically full for a longer period after eating.
3. Pancreas: It helps manage blood sugar levels, which can reduce cravings.

Unlike simple stimulant-based suppressants, semaglutide addresses multiple systems involved in weight regulation. In studies, patients using semaglutide for weight loss (under the brand Wegovy) achieved an average weight loss of 15-20% of their body weight over 68 weeks when combined with lifestyle changes.

The key to success is using it under medical supervision, like at a dedicated weight loss clinic, where a provider can manage dosage, monitor for side effects (like temporary nausea), and provide a comprehensive plan for nutrition and exercise.