Weight Loss Injections
What Are Weight Loss Injections?
Weight loss shots help those struggling with obesity or excess weight achieve weight loss through once-weekly injections under the skin, typically in the abdomen. These injectable drugs contain ingredients like semaglutide and tirzepatide and are most effective when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. This non-surgical method of weight loss and management can be highly beneficial for those who have type 2 diabetes and/or wish to lose a significant amount of weight for medical or aesthetic reasons. At Richmond Aesthetic Surgery, our board-certified plastic surgeon offers four popular injectables for weight loss: Ozempic®, Zepbound™, Wegovy®, and Mounjaro®.
- How Weight Loss Injections Work
- Weight Loss Injection Eligibility
- Weight Loss Injectable Options
- Weight Loss Injection Cost
- Insurance Coverage for Weight Loss Injectables
How Do Injectables for Weight Loss Work?
Weight loss injections use active ingredients like semaglutide and tirzepatide to help control hunger, which can contribute to weight loss. These prescription drugs work by mimicking hormones that control your appetite, thereby increasing the feeling that you are full. Over time, this can cause varying levels of weight loss, which can often translate to improved health and a boost in self-esteem.
Depending on the injectable brand, its dosage, and the patient, a significant amount of weight can be lost while using injectables for weight management. If you find you have sagging skin and isolated pockets of fat due to substantial weight loss, our plastic surgeon, Dr. Neil Zemmel, can evaluate if you may be a good candidate for post-weight loss body contouring. Through major weight loss and contouring procedures like tummy tuck and liposuction, patients can often achieve the sculpted, thinner body shape they desire.
Am I Eligible for Weight Loss Injections?
Ideal candidates typically qualify for weight loss injectables like Ozempic, Zepbound, Wegovy, and Mounjaro when they have a BMI (body mass index) of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with an associated medical conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. Since candidacy is determined on a case-by-case basis, you will need to consult with an experienced physician to learn whether you are eligible for weight loss injectables and which option is right for your needs.
What Are the Different Injectables for Weight Loss?
As injectables for weight loss have gained popularity over the years, multiple options have become available. Our team offers a variety of these injectables, helping patients find the safest and most effective brand for their unique needs and preferences.
Ozempic®
Perhaps one of the most well-known weight loss drugs, Ozempic contains semaglutide to help patients achieve noticeable weight loss. FDA approved for type 2 diabetes, Ozempic is often used off-label for weight loss, helping many people achieve a loss of around 20% of their body weight (1).
Zepbound™
Containing the ingredient tirzepatide, Zepbound is a weight loss injectable that is specifically approved by the FDA for chronic weight management. Studies have shown patients can lose up to 20% of their body weight (2).
Wegovy®
Wegovy is a semaglutide weight loss injectable that is FDA approved for long-term weight management. A medical study showed that adults were able to lose approximately 15% of their body weight with Wegovy (3).
Mounjaro®
Composed of the ingredient tirzepatide, Mounjaro is FDA approved for those with type 2 diabetes and is often used as an off-label weight loss drug. The injectable has been shown to help people lose around 20% of their body weight (4).
How Much Do Weight Loss Injections Cost?
The cost of weight loss injection drugs will vary based on factors like a patient’s medical history, the brand being used, the dosage of their injectable, and length of treatment. In general, you can expect to pay approximately $800-$1,400 each month for brands like Ozempic, Zepbound, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. During your consultation, our team will provide you with a cost estimate to help you budget for your treatment.
Does Insurance Cover Weight Loss Injectables?
Most health insurance plans do not cover these injectables when used for weight loss alone, but you may qualify for coverage when medical conditions are present. The best way to learn of your insurance benefits is to contact your provider for more information.