Semaglutide & tirzepatide
Medical Weight Loss in Annapolis, MD
Obesity is about more than carrying extra pounds. It is a complex medical problem that requires a meaningful medical treatment plan — and we offer comprehensive medical weight loss and body contouring surgery in one location. The program is run by Shira Leighty, RN, and directed by Dr. Claire Duggal.
At a glance
Medication
Compounded semaglutide or tirzepatide
Paired with
Vitamin B6
Dosing
One weekly injection, at home
Candidates
Decided case by case
Starts with
Consultation and medical review
Lab work
Not required
Program
Monthly check-ins with Shira Leighty, RN
A plan built on more than diet and exercise
Approximately 70% of adult Americans are overweight or obese. Obesity can cause serious health issues including stroke, heart disease, and diabetes, and it is linked to certain types of cancer. Losing five to ten percent of your body weight can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in adult patients who are significantly overweight.
Our medical weight loss program offers information, support, and personalized recommendations. We target multiple factors contributing to excess weight — biology, genetics, medical issues, environment, and lifestyle — and stay current on the latest medical research about obesity and its treatment.
You can have confidence that you are getting a healthy weight loss plan that fits your basic needs and lifestyle.
Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide
Semaglutide works by binding to and activating the GLP-1 receptor, lowering glucagon secretion and stimulating insulin secretion when blood glucose is high, and targeting the brain areas that regulate appetite and food consumption. Tirzepatide acts on both the GIP and GLP-1 pathways. Both are compounded medications prepared with vitamin B6. They are not the brand-name products Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro or Zepbound.
Medication does not replace a healthy diet and regular activity. It works best alongside them, which is why nutrition guidance is part of the program.
Causes of obesity
Five factors we look at.
People tend to focus on diet and exercise, but you may be struggling with other causes. Your plan is tailored to the full range of factors.
Environmental
Stressors such as living with someone who is also overweight, family or work difficulties, or a long commute can all interfere with the ability to focus on self-care and healthy living.
Psychological
Depression and anxiety can contribute to weight gain, as can disordered eating habits, binge-eating behavior, negative self-talk, and all-or-nothing thinking patterns.
Behavioral
Sleep habits, physical activity, beverage selection, and meal planning all affect health and weight. Addressing an underlying sleep problem can have a significant impact.
Functional
Arthritis, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, or headaches can limit exercise. Conditions affecting cognitive function can make healthy eating behaviors harder to engage with.
Biological
Insulin resistance is among the most common causes, and certain genetic and hormonal factors contribute. Common drugs like beta blockers, insulin, and mental-health medications can increase appetite.
Is medical weight loss for me?
At your consultation we discuss your weight history — highs, lows, and their timeline — and your lifestyle, including sleep habits, meal patterns, exercise, and profession.
Whether the program is right for you is decided case by case at that consultation. Office hours are Monday to Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Your team
Who runs the program.
Shira Leighty, RN
Runs the program
Shira leads the practice’s Health & Wellness Program and sees you at your monthly check-ins. She has been with the practice for more than fifteen years.
Learn more ›
Dr. Claire Duggal
Medical director
Dr. Duggal, a board-certified plastic surgeon, directs the program. If you later want help with loose skin after weight loss, she is also the surgeon who performs body contouring.
Learn more ›The program
What’s included.
Every program starts with a consultation and continues month by month.
Initial consultation
A review of your weight history, medical history, medications and lifestyle, and whether the program is right for you.
Four prefilled syringes a month
One injection a week, at home. We show you how at your first visit.
Monthly check-ins
With Shira Leighty, RN, to review your progress and adjust your dose.
Nutrition guidance
Medication works best alongside changes to diet and activity, and we help you make them.
Cost
How much does medical weight loss cost?
The program is priced by the month. The first month costs less while you start on a low dose, and the monthly price after that depends on your dose.
Your monthly price includes four prefilled syringes, your check-in and nutrition guidance.
| Medication | First month | Lower dose | Higher dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide + B6 | $175 | $450 / month 10–50 units | $600 / month 60–90 units |
| Tirzepatide + B6 | $250 | $550 / month 0.25–0.5 mL | $750 / month 0.75–1 mL |
Compounded medications, not the brand-name products. Pricing is subject to change.
Medical weight loss FAQs.
Start with a consultation.
We will discuss your current condition and lifestyle, then formulate a plan to reach your weight loss goals.