Semaglutide

How Does Semaglutide Work?

At TCSIG Wellness Center, we offer Semaglutide, a medication that mimics the effects of a naturally occurring hormone
called GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar and reduces appetite.

Semaglutide works in three key ways to support blood sugar control:

• Enhances Insulin Production: When blood sugar levels rise, Semaglutide signals the pancreas to produce more
  insulin, helping lower blood sugar.
• Reduces Excess Sugar Production: It prevents the liver from making and releasing too much sugar, stabilizing blood
  glucose levels.
• Slows Digestion: It delays how quickly food leaves the stomach, promoting a longer-lasting feeling of fullness and
  reducing appetite.

When combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise, it not only helps lower blood sugar but may also reduce the risk
of major cardiovascular events like stroke, heart attack, and complications from high blood pressure.

Is Semaglutide Right for You?

While Semaglutide is an effective option for many, it may not be suitable if you or a family member has a history of
medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), or certain pancreatic
conditions.

If you're considering Semaglutide, our TCSIG clinicians are here to help determine if it’s the right fit for you. Schedule an
appointment today to learn more about your options by calling 530-822-5500.

Where to

Inject

Semaglutide.

Semaglutide is placed in the fatty layer between the skin and
the muscle - called a subcutaneous injection.

For Semaglutide, a subcutaneous injection works best because:

• Slow and Steady Release – The medicine is absorbed slowly
  into the body, which helps it last longer and work better.

• Less Painful – Since the shot doesn’t go into a muscle, it
  usually hurts less.

• Easy to Do at Home – People can safely give themselves this
  shot with the right training.

Where to

Inject

Semaglutide.

To insert the needle for a subcutaneous injection, hold it like
a dart and position it at a 90-degree angle if injecting in the
abdomen or 45 degree angle if injecting in the thigh or
upper arm.

Gently pinch a small fold of skin between your fingers to
create a space for the injection.

Quickly and smoothly push the needle into the skin, making
sure it goes in all the way.

Once the needle is in, release the pinched skin before
injecting the medication.

the abdomen, the front of the thigh,
or the upper arm.

Where to

Inject

Semaglutide.

Subcutaneous injections are commonly given in areas with
a layer of fat between the skin and muscle.

The best spots are the abdomen, upper thigh, and upper
arm.

Abdomen, choose a spot at least 2 inches away from the
belly button, avoiding scars or bruises.

Upper thigh is another good option—use the front or outer
part of the thigh, about halfway between the knee and hip.

Upper arm, use the back of the upper arm where there is a
fatty layer, avoiding the muscle.

Where to

Inject

Semaglutide.

Rotating your injection sites helps prevent skin irritation,
lumps, and scar tissue buildup.

To do this, choose a different spot within the same general
area each time you give an injection.

Keeping a rotation schedule can help avoid using the same
spot too often, ensuring better absorption of the
medication and keeping the skin healthy.

How To Injection Semaglutide

How To Injection Semaglutide

1. Prepare: Ensure the needle stays sterile and inject into bare
   skin (not through clothing).
2. Pinch: Lightly pinch the skin at your chosen site for easier
   insertion.
3. Hold & Insert: Grip the syringe between your index and
   middle finger, thumb on the plunger, and insert at a 90-degree
   angle.
4. Inject: Slowly push the plunger down until all the medication is
   delivered.
5. Remove: Once injected, carefully pull the needle straight out.

If you have questions, TCSIG Wellness Center staff are here to help!

How To Store Your Semaglutide

It is essential to store Semaglutide correctly to maintain its effectiveness. Following these
simple but important guidelines will help ensure your medication stays safe and effective:

• Always: Store your Semaglutide syringes in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F.
• Do not freeze: If a syringe has been frozen, it should not be used.
• Storage placement: Keep the syringe away from direct contact with cooling elements in the fridge,
  and avoid exposing it to heat, light, or freezing.
• On the go: Use an insulated travel case to keep Semaglutide at a stable temperature, or, if
  unavailable, wrap it in a soft cloth and store it in the coolest part of your carry-on, avoiding direct
  heat and sunlight.

• For any questions about storing your medication properly, please reach out to your TCSIG
  healthcare provider for guidance. Proper storage ensures your treatment remains safe and
  effective throughout its use.

So You Missed A Dose?

If you miss your scheduled dose of Semaglutide, follow these guidelines to stay on
track with your treatment:

• 
  
• If it's been 5 days or less: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
  Your new injection day will shift to this new day of the week going forward.
  • For example, if you usually take your dose on Saturday but miss it and
    take it on Monday instead, then Monday will now be your regular injection
    day.
• If more than 5 days have passed: Skip the missed dose and continue with
  your next scheduled injection as planned.
  • Do not take extra doses to make up for the missed one.

• If you have any questions about adjusting your schedule, reach out to your TCSIG
  healthcare provider for guidance. Staying consistent with your doses helps
  maintain the effectiveness of your treatment.
• 
  

FAQ

Who Qualifies for Semaglutide?

• Patient’s with Type 2 Diabetes
  • A1C over 7.0%
• Patients with prediabetes
  • A1C over 5.7%

How do I find out if I Qualify?

• Make an appointment with a
  TCSIG Clinician.
• 
  

FAQ

When Should I Take My Injection?

Take your weekly injection at the same time each week for consistency. Morning or night is fine.

What Side Effects Should I Watch For?

Common side effects:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and acid reflux or bleching.
• Mild redness or irritation at the injection site.

Less common but serious side effects:

• Pancreatitis, kidney injury, or severe low blood sugar (especially with insulin)
• Thyroid warning: Avoid if you or a family member has medullary thyroid cancer.

Do you have to take Semaglutide with food?

Semaglutide can be taken with or without food and you can inject at any time on the day it’s
administered, but we recommend you keep it consistent each week.

FAQ

Foods to Avoid

• Refined grains
• Foods with added sugar
• Fried foods
• Sugary drinks/Alcohol

What exercise Should I do?

We recommend at least 3 times per week strength training or weight bearing exercise.

How Soon Will I See Results?

Results vary, but many patients notice changes in appetite after a few weeks. Studies show:

• 4% weight loss after 8 weeks
• 10-15% total body weight loss after long-term use with healthy habits

For more information, speak with a TCSIG Wellness Center provider: (530) 822-5500

Food Tips

• Keep it Simple: Avoid rich or spicy foods to prevent stomach issues.
• Stay Hydrated: Your appetite changes, but your water needs don’t!
• Nutrient-Dense Choices: Every bite counts, so make it healthy.
• Prioritize Protein:* Your best macro for muscle and satiety. (speak to a
  provider first if you have kidney disease)
• Stick to a Schedule: Don’t skip meals, set reminders for small meals if
  needed!