Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a natural hormone produced in the intestines that regulates blood sugar levels and metabolism. GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medicines that mimic the effects of GLP-1. Examples include semaglutide (brand names Ozempic and Wegovy), tirzepatide (brand name Mounjaro), and liraglutide (brand names Victoza and Saxenda).
This page is for educational and clinical guidance only. Its purpose is to promote the safe, appropriate, and regulated use of GLP-1–based therapies, particularly in the context of the increasing number of unregulated and medically unsupervised uses, which may compromise patient safety. This type of medication is scheduled and can only be provided and dispensed after a personal consultation with a doctor. This is a legal requirement. GLP-1-based therapies should never be taken without proper medical supervision or obtained from unregulated or black-market sources. Ensure that the GLP-1 medicine you are given is approved and authorised by SAHPRA (South African Health Products Regulatory Authority). The medical specialized consultation at Slender Solutions costs R550 and is intended to ensure no contraindications for use exist, evaluate personalised options, and provide clinically based recommendations. Online payment for the consultation is available. Click here and receive a free InBody assessment (worth R275) to track your progress as you embark on your weight loss journey.
Please note that the consultation is provided in a registered medical practice and under the oversight of a licensed medical doctor (Practice No 1567268) and a Registered Nursing Sister (CANG 12213021) are available.
Our dynamic team of healthcare providers is passionately committed to helping you achieve your weight loss and wellness goals. Our practise provides expert nutritional guidance and personalised strength training services to support you on your journey. Throughout your treatment, your healthcare provider will consistently monitor your progress, focusing on key indicators, to ensure that you lose weight in the healthiest way possible.
We are at Medical suites, Cambridge Crossing Shopping Centre, 1 Stonehaven street, Paulshof, Sandton. Click here to find our premises on Google Maps.
Semaglutide is also approved for treating type 2 diabetes, but the success in treating weight loss has revolutionised treatment. This is due to its ability of GLP-s agonists to regulate blood sugar, reduce appetite, and slow down emptying of food from the stomach, so that patients feel fuller for longer, resulting in effective weight loss. The popularity of these medications is not surprising, given their numerous health benefits. According to research, reducing body fat by just 12% can increase a person’s lifespan by 6.8 years.
GLP-1 plays the following roles in the body:
- Stimulating insulin secretion: GLP-1 helps the pancreas release insulin in response to food, which helps lower blood sugar levels.
- Inhibiting glucagon release: GLP-1 prevents the release of glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar) from the pancreas, helping to reduce blood sugar levels even further.
- Slowing gastric emptying: GLP-1 slows down how quickly food moves from the stomach to the intestines, which helps promote satiety (feeling full) and can aid in weight loss.
- Appetite regulation: It also acts on the brain to reduce appetite, which can contribute to weight loss.
You cannot order these medicines directly because they are only available on prescription, and treatment can only be prescribed after a personal consultation with a medical practitioner. This consultation is necessary to assess possible contraindications and to determine whether treatment is clinically appropriate, as these medications may pose risks if used incorrectly. GLP-1–based therapies must be prescribed, initiated, and monitored under ongoing medical supervision, including appropriate dose titration and regular clinical review. Ongoing supervision is required to monitor side effects, metabolic response, and overall treatment safety. The medication is typically indicated for individuals with a BMI of 27 or greater (overweight) with at least one weight-related condition such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidaemia. Regular follow-up appointments are an essential component of the treatment plan. These visits include an InBody composition assessment to monitor progress and evaluate reduction of subcutaneous and viceral fat dicstribution - ensuring a comprehensive and medically supervised approach to your health.
In conjunction with the doctor, Registered Nurse, Sister Isabel de Carvalho (B.Soc.Sc. Hons.) will provide patient education and discuss potential risks, alternative approaches, and the requirements for ongoing medical supervision. The consultation includes:
• Evaluation of the patient’s medical history and relevant health-related issues
• Current medications to avoid contraindications
• Blood pressure and other vital signs
• A complete InBody composition analysis will be done to evaluate body composition, especiall visceral fat
• Depending on the evaluation, bloodwork will be done if required.
Medical Suites, Shop L13,
Cambridge Crossing Shopping Centre
1 Stone Haven Street,
Paulshof,
Sandton,
South Africa,
2191