GLP-1 Peptides

Consultations offered at our two convenient locations in Carnegie Hill and Flatiron, NY

The GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) peptide is a multifaceted medication that mimics a natural digestive hormone to lower blood sugar, slow stomach emptying, and facilitate weight loss. Originally formulated as a type 2 diabetes medication, GLP-1 peptides are now an effective way to enhance a weight loss journey.

Dermatology, Laser & Surgery of Carnegie Hill and Dermatology, Laser & Surgery of Flatiron combine years of dermatological expertise with cutting-edge treatments to solve a vast range of patient concerns. Through board-certified expertise, our team works closely with each patient to overcome their unique challenges. GLP-1 medications are also being studied for their anti-inflammatory effects and may have a role in skin manifestations of metabolic or other disorders including acne.

If you are ready to explore how GLP-1 peptides can help you take the next step in your weight loss journey, or your skin care journey, contact us online or call Dermatology, Laser & Surgery of Carnegie Hill at (646) 661-6131 or Dermatology, Laser & Surgery of Flatiron at (212) 982-8229.

About GLP-1 Peptides

GLP-1 peptides work by attaching to hormone receptors and activating them, mimicking natural gut hormones. In the body, GLP-1 peptides have several effects. They signal the brain to increase feelings of fullness and reduce cravings. They also slow gastric emptying so food stays in the stomach for longer, which helps to reduce appetite. These peptides promote insulin secretion from the pancreas when glucose levels rise after eating, helping regulate blood sugar. Most notably, patients feel fuller for longer after consuming smaller portions. This effect, along with balanced digestive hormones and a boosted metabolism, reduces calorie intake and helps patients see notable weight-loss progress. Most often, these peptides come as an injection or oral medication. (1)

Common GLP-1 Agonists:

  • Dulaglutide
  • Exenatide
  • Liraglutide
  • Lixisenatide
  • Semaglutide

Benefits

By mimicking natural gut hormones, GLP-1 peptides bring several benefits, including:

  • Lowered blood sugar
  • Reduced body weight by up to 20%
  • Curbed cravings and reduced appetite (2)
  • Lowered risk of heart disease and stroke
  • Slowed down loss of kidney function
  • Reduced inflammation, including reduced acne in certain cases

Candidates

If you are managing type 2 diabetes or looking for an effective next step in your weight-loss journey, you may be an ideal candidate for GLP-1 peptides. The GLP-1 peptides we offer are FDA-approved, and our team can personalize your dosage schedule to your health profile and weight loss goals. To qualify for treatment, you should be in good general health, hold realistic expectations for your goals, and be willing to commit to a regular dosage schedule and exercise routine.

If you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, severe gastrointestinal disease, hypersensitivity, or severe allergic reactions to GLP-1 ingredients, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, GLP-1 peptide medications may not be an ideal treatment for you.

One of our expert team members will establish your candidacy at your consultation.

Personal Consultation

During your personal consultation, one of our expert team members will review your medical history, including your weight loss journey, discuss your treatment goals and ideal weight, and explain how a custom GLP-1 regimen may benefit you. After gathering the necessary information, they will create a customized treatment plan that includes the specific GLP-1 medication type, your dosage schedule, and at-home administration instructions. Our team will assist you every step of the way by addressing any questions or concerns. We can also manage possible side effects of GLP-1 medications such as alopecia (hair loss) and dry skin.

There may be other dermatologic effects from these medications. At Dermatology, Laser & Surgery, we offer comprehensive care for GLP-1 patients from prescribing to managing side effects and offering related treatments.

Contact us online or call Dermatology, Laser & Surgery of Carnegie Hill at (646) 661-6131 or Dermatology, Laser & Surgery of Flatiron at (212) 982-8229 to schedule your personal consultation and learn more about your GLP-1 possibilities.

Preparation

As a medicated therapy regimen, GLP-1 peptides do not require extensive preparation. However, there are a few steps you can take to enhance treatment outcomes:

  • Adjust your diet to focus on lean proteins and high-fiber foods and limit greasy or sugary foods
  • Stock up on high-protein snacks, whole foods, and hydration drinks
  • Participate in light strength training to preserve muscle mass
  • Continue to exercise regularly
  • Limit or cease alcohol consumption and smoking

Procedure

One of our expert team members will prescribe your starting GLP-1 dose and provide detailed instructions on how and when to properly administer your treatment. They will guide you through your first dose in-office. Most GLP-1 peptides are taken through subcutaneous injections; however, certain formulations are available as oral medication.

Injection administration instructions:

  1. Thoroughly wash your hands to avoid contamination.
  2. Using an alcohol prep pad, clean the injection site on your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, letting it dry completely.
  3. Grab your medication vial and a sterile syringe and pull the syringe plunger back to draw in an amount of air equal to your prescribed dose.
  4. Insert the needle straight into the center of the rubber stopper and push back the plunger to inject the air into the vial.
  5. Turn the vial and syringe upside down and slowly pull back the plunger to your required unit of measurement, and gently tap the syringe to eliminate air bubbles.
  6. Pull the needle out of the vial and gently pinch a fold of fatty tissue, hold the syringe, and push the needle straight into the skin at a 90-degree angle, or 45-degree angle if you have less fat.
  7. Slowly depress the plunger to inject the GLP-1 medication. Once injected, release the pinched skin and carefully remove the syringe.
  8. Do not attempt to recap the needle. Place it in a designated sharps container for safe disposal.

Most patients take a GLP-1 dose each week. You will return for follow-up appointments throughout your treatment where we will monitor your weight reduction, side effects, and more. Eventually, we may increase your dose to keep progress consistent. Once reaching your desired weight, we may place you on a maintenance dose to preserve your reduced weight.

Recovery

GLP-1 medications do not require significant downtime, but patients do report some gastrointestinal side effects after beginning treatment. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, acid reflux, and a new feeling of fullness are common, but these lessen as your body adjusts to the medications. We recommend staying hydrated, eating slowly, not overeating, avoiding spicy, greasy, heavy foods, and increasing fiber and protein intake. Some patients may see minor swelling, redness, or soreness at the injection site; this is generally a local reaction to receiving an injection rather than a reaction to the GLP-1 medication.

Results

GLP-1 peptides have proven to be incredibly effective for weight reduction. On average, patients can lose 12% to 20% of their total body weight. This brings the important health benefits of weight loss, including improved blood sugar control, reduced risk of heart attack and stroke, and more. (3) With a leaner physique, many patients experience heightened confidence and newfound motivation to maintain an active, healthy lifestyle.

Cost of GLP-1 Peptides in Carnegie Hill and Flatiron

The cost of your GLP-1 plan will vary depending on your concerns, your weight loss goals, the dosage you receive (and if it changes), your treatment duration, and more. After establishing all treatment details during your consultation, our team will provide a comprehensive price quote. To explore the cost of your GLP-1 peptide plan and schedule a consultation, contact us online or call Dermatology, Laser & Surgery of Carnegie Hill at (646) 661-6131 or Dermatology, Laser & Surgery of Flatiron at (212) 982-8229.

FAQ

What is a GLP-1 peptide?

GLP-1 peptides are glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists. They bind with hormone receptors in the digestive system and brain to better regulate appetite, digestion, metabolism, and more. With these innovative treatments, patients can see significant weight loss and greatly improve their health.

What is the most popular GLP-1 medication?

The most popular forms of GLP-1 peptides are semaglutide, liraglutide, dulaglutide, and exenatide.

How often should I take my GLP-1 medication?

Our team will provide an administration and dosage schedule for your GLP-1 regimen, but typically, you will administer your injections once a week, although exact dosage may vary over time. Microdosing is also available and should be discussed with your provider.

Do I have to be on a specific diet while I take my GLP-1 medication?

You do not have to commit to a strict diet, but you should prioritize whole foods, lean proteins, fiber-rich foods, and hydration. Additionally, you should consistently participate in strength training and cardiovascular exercise. This keeps your body strong throughout treatment, minimizes digestive side effects, and helps you form long-lasting healthy habits.

What are the results of GLP-1 peptides?

GLP-1 medications can help you lose weight, manage or lower your blood sugar, suppress your appetite and curb cravings, decrease cardiovascular and kidney diseases, and more. They can decrease acne and other inflammatory conditions in some cases.

Can I regain weight if I stop taking GLP-1 peptides?

Some patients have regained weight after getting off of their GLP-1 plan. Once you reach a goal weight, we may place you on a maintenance dose to preserve your outcomes. To prevent weight regain, it is important to form healthy dieting and exercise habits as you take the medication. Should you need to discontinue your GLP-1s, our team will be able to help you preserve your reduced weight with a plan.

References

  1. Müller TD, Finan B, Bloom SR, et al. Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1). Molecular Metabolism. 2019;30:72-130. doi:10.1016/j.molmet.2019.09.010
  2. Aldawsari M, Almadani FA, Almuhammadi N, Algabsani S, Alamro Y, Aldhwayan M. The Efficacy of GLP-1 Analogues on Appetite Parameters, Gastric Emptying, Food Preference and Taste Among Adults with Obesity: Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity. 2023;Volume 16:575-595. doi:10.2147/dmso.s387116
  3. Shah MY, Mohammad A, Bashir Ahmed Samejo R, et al. Weight Loss That Lasts: Reviewing the Long-Term Impact of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists. Cureus. Published online July 19, 2025. doi:10.7759/cureus.88334