Sema Glutide
Sema Glutide Overview
Our goal is to educate our patients and provide resources for long-term weight management with lifestyle modifications. This program is headed by our Nurse Practitioner, Angie Johnston, certified in weight management. She will partner with our in-house dietary resource, Leslie Bonci, who will meet with patients to discuss their current eating habits, and tools for managing nutrition throughout their semaglutide journey.
An essential part of our process that differs from other practices is our focus on creating sustainable weight loss and a comprehensive plan for continued success. We are creating partnerships in our community of caregivers to establish optimum care surrounding each patient and their specific needs. Semaglutides are a great tool for managing a patient’s weight loss, but during this time, we will also be addressing the patient’s general health and wellness to include their ability to exercise, general nutrition, activity levels, mental health, and any other health concerns should they arise. Our collaborative team is available for referral-based care to make sure each patient knows they can achieve success.
Common Sema Glutide Concerns
Results
Side Effects
Injections
Program Details
Candidacy
Initial Consultation
Follow Up Appointment
Weekly Appointments
Nutrition Support
Program Lead: Angie Johnson, MSN, FNP-C
Hear from Dr. Antimarino
About Dr. Antimarino
BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON
Dr. Jeffrey Antimarino, a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 18 years of experience, combines compassion, artistry, and a Southern California flair in his practice. Educated at Pepperdine and Creighton Universities, he completed his surgical training at USC, specializing in aesthetic procedures, breast surgery, and post-weight loss reconstruction. Since relocating to Pittsburgh in 2007, he has maintained a California license, ensuring he stays current with the latest techniques. He’s well-regarded for educating patients and his involvement in community and women’s health initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can go on this program?
Patients must have a BMI >27 or a BMI of 24-27 with co-morbidity conditions such as elevated B/P, cardiac issues, type 2 diabetics, elevated cholesterol, or menopausal factors.
What makes this program different?
This program is managed by a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, Angie Johnston, who has direct MD supervision with Dr. Antimarino. The patient will have an initial consultation with the dietician. We have referral lines to physical therapists, behavioral therapists, and personal trainers to help you modify your eating and lifestyle habits and work towards your personal success with our program.
Why do I need to be seen each week?
At the beginning of the program, each patient will be seen once a week. The effects of the medication must be closely monitored so each patient can maximize their results. All medication can have complications, so weekly monitoring can help minimize any complications, and also, document each patient’s progress. Once the patient has established themselves in the program, the timeline for office visits can be re-visited.
What are the qualifications of the provider?
Angie Johnston is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with additional certifications for using Semaglutides for weight management. She is also a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and Obesity Medicine Association.
Do I need to stay in this program for the rest of my life?
Unlike many programs, our program is a 6-month process. We feel that this time frame is essential to establish long-lasting lifestyle changes so that long-term use of the medication will no longer be needed.
What does it mean to have a collaboration with other providers?
We have established direct referral patterns to other specialists who can assist our patients in overcoming many of the barriers that may be keeping them from reaching a healthier, more active lifestyle.
Does my insurance cover the cost of the program?
The initial and monthly fees are not covered by your health insurance. Referrals to other specialists may be covered but not guaranteed.
How much does the program cost?
There is an initial consultation fee which includes a detailed assessment with Angie and covers a physical exam that will consist of vitals, body measurements, and blood work. The initial fee also includes a 1-hour evaluation with Leslie Bonci, our in-house nutrition expert. Once your lab work is reviewed and you start the program, there will be weekly assessments with Angie, Semaglutide injections, and measurements. Ongoing sessions with Leslie Bonci will be available for a nominal cost. Referrals to other providers may be covered by your health insurance.
If I have a problem with the medication, who would I contact?
Angie will be the primary contact, followed by Dr. Antimarino.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects are rare but can include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. These side effects are mostly associated with the dosage of the medication and can be treated with changes in the dose.
If I am not a good candidate for semaglutides, is there something else I can do?
If you are not a good candidate, you will still have access to Leslie Bonci for nutritional guidance, as well as the other specialists who can help develop a treatment plan specific to you.
When will I see the results?
In most cases, results begin after 1-2 weeks.
Do I have to change my diet or start to exercise?
Changing your diet and becoming more active are the key components to establishing a healthy long-term lifestyle. This program aims to provide the necessary tools so that any person can lose excess weight and change their current habits to establish sustainable healthy choices in food and exercise.
Schedule Your
Consultation Today!
During your consultation, Angie will walk you through a series of questions to determine your concerns, goals and expectations. She will discuss with you any medical conditions you may have or treatments you are going through, what medications you may be taking, and any previous surgeries. Be prepared to discuss outcomes of the program, and have photos taken.
Other Procedures & Services
Our Locations
Monroeville
117 FOX PLAN ROAD, SUITE #300,
MONROEVILLE, PA 15146
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Fri: 8 am – 4:00 pm
Shadyside
5301 FIFTH AVENUE, SUITE A,
PITTSBURGH, PA 15232
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Fri: 8 am – 4:00 pm
