If you’ve been hearing a lot about GLP-1 medications lately, you’re not alone. These treatments have genuinely transformed the way we approach weight loss — and for good reason. They work.
Originally developed to help manage diabetes, these medications use the same active ingredients found in well-known brand-name treatments you’ve probably heard of. We prescribe compounded versions of semaglutide and tirzepatide — formulated to the same high standards, but tailored to your individual needs and goals.
They work by mimicking hormones that help regulate your appetite, blood sugar, and digestion — so you feel fuller faster and crave less. The result? Real, meaningful weight loss that goes beyond just the number on the scale.
What Makes These Medications Different?
Semaglutide is a weekly injection that curbs appetite by acting on the brain’s hunger center. It also slows digestion, so you feel satisfied longer. In clinical trials, people lost an average of about 15% of their body weight, with some losing more than 20%.
Tirzepatide takes things a step further. It targets two hormone receptors instead of one, which means even greater appetite suppression and, for many people, fewer stomach-related side effects. Doses range from 2.5 mg to 15 mg and are adjusted to fit your individual needs and goals.
Both are powerful tools — and choosing the right one for you starts with a conversation.Are These Medications Right for You?
GLP-1 medications aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and that’s actually a good thing. A personalized approach means you get a plan designed specifically for your health history and goals.
Most people are great candidates, but there are some situations where these medications may not be the right fit — like a personal history of thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, or certain kidney conditions. That’s why we start with a thorough review of your health history and lab work before recommending anything. Your safety always comes first.
One thing we’re especially proud of: we source our compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide from Belcher Pharmaceuticals, an FDA-compliant manufacturing facility. That means you can feel confident about the quality and consistency of what you’re taking — no guesswork.
What About Side Effects?
The most common side effects are digestive — think mild nausea, bloating, or constipation — and they tend to ease up as your body adjusts. A few simple habits go a long way: eating smaller meals, avoiding heavy or fatty foods, staying well hydrated, and taking magnesium to support digestion.
Concerns about thyroid cancer have come up in the media, but it’s worth knowing that those findings came from studies in genetically modified rats. Human studies have not shown an increased risk. We’re always happy to walk you through any questions you have — no topic is off the table.
The Results Speak for Themselves
On average, our patients lose about 6.6 pounds in the first month and around 26 pounds by the fourth month. One patient lost 44 pounds in just five months. But the benefits go beyond weight — patients also see improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and even sleep apnea. Studies show a 20% reduction in cardiovascular events among users. That’s a pretty remarkable ripple effect!
Many patients also tell us they have more energy, feel more motivated to exercise, and even notice they’re spending less on food, which helps offset the cost of the medication itself.
You’re in Expert Hands
Our medical weight loss program is led by Dr. Gerald Haas, and his background is exactly what you’d want in someone overseeing your care. Dr. Haas is a board-certified anesthesiologist who has been part of the La Jolla Cosmetic family for over 25 years. In that role, he’s spent decades reviewing patient health histories, coordinating with surgeons, and making sure every person who walks through our doors is safe, comfortable, and well cared for. Safety isn’t just something he talks about — it’s genuinely been the focus of his entire career.
Now, as the director of our Skinny Shot weight-loss program, Dr. Haas brings the same meticulous, patient-first approach to your weight-loss journey. Every new patient starts with a thorough health history review and lab work — just like he’s always done before any procedure. From there, he works with you one-on-one (often via a convenient Zoom consultation) to build a plan that’s right for your body and your goals. You’re not just getting a prescription — you’re getting a physician who genuinely cares about your outcome.
You Won’t Be Doing This Alone
Every step of the journey is supported by our team. From your first consultation and lab work to ongoing check-ins and dose adjustments, we’re with you the whole way.
We use tools like smart scales and photo tracking to help you see your progress clearly — because seeing results is one of the best motivators there is.
Once you hit your goal weight, we shift into maintenance mode. That might look like a lower dose every other week, or incorporating select supplements to help manage appetite long-term. The goal is to help you keep the weight off — not just lose it.
Getting started is easier than you think. A quick lab draw, a consultation, and you’re on your way. We make it simple, supportive, and completely personalized to you.
Earn Real Rewards While You Reach Your Goals
Here’s something we think you’re really going to love: every Signature Skinny Shot patient is enrolled in our Model Rewards loyalty program. That means every purchase earns you real cash back rewards — putting money back in your pocket as you invest in your health. It’s our way of saying thank you for trusting us with your journey.
📱 GETTING STARTED WITH MODEL REWARDS
- 1. Download the Model Rewards app from the App Store or Google Play, scan the QR code, or download directly here: https://download.modelrewards.com
- 2. Enter your phone number
- 3. Use invitation code: LJCSC
- 5. Learn about the program here
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’ve been curious about GLP-1 medications or wondering if they might be right for you, we’d love to talk. Our team is here to answer your questions, review your health history, and help you find the path forward that makes the most sense for your life and your goals. Set up a call with our Skinny Shot Coordinator here.
Because at LJCSC, we’re not just here for one moment in your health journey — we’re here for all of them.
