LAP-BAND® Weight Loss Surgery
LAP-BAND® weight loss surgery: A laparoscopic adjustable gastric band, commonly referred to as a LAP-BAND®, is an inflatable silicone device that is placed around the top portion of the stomach, via laparoscopic surgery, in order to treat obesity. Adjustable gastric band surgery is an example of bariatric surgery designed for obese patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater or between 35-40 in cases of patients with certain co morbidities that are known to improve with weight loss, such as sleep apnea, diabetes, osteoarthritis, GERD, Hypertension (high blood pressure), or metabolic syndrome, among others. Read more about LAP-BAND® & Weight Loss Surgery How LAP-BAND® & gastric banding works: According to the American Society for Metabolic Bariatric Surgery, bariatric surgery is not an easy option for obesity sufferers. Bariatric surgery is a drastic step, and carries the usual pain and risks of any major gastrointestinal surgical operation. However, gastric banding is the least invasive surgery of its kind. Gastric banding is performed using laparoscopic surgery and usually results in a shorter hospital stay, faster recovery, smaller scars, and less pain than open surgical procedures. Read More about LAP-BAND® Surgery Laparoscopic surgery: A small incision (less than 1/2 inch) is made near the belly button. Carbon dioxide (a gas that occurs naturally in the body) is introduced into the abdomen to create a work space for the surgeon. Then a small laparoscopic camera is placed through the incision into the abdomen. The camera sends a picture of the stomach and abdominal cavity to a video monitor. It gives the surgeon a good view of the key structures in the abdominal cavity. Read more about Gastric Band Surgery Our minimally invasive, state-of-the-art surgical approach to weight and wellness provides superior results to our Gastric Sleeve patients.The sleeve procedure is a highly sought after form of bariatric surgery. Recent research has tracked the success of this procedure that is designed to reduce the size of a patients stomach by 80-85%. This procedure is less invasive than a conventional gastric bypass procedure. The stomach is constricted with the use of surgical staples. These will be placed with the help of the small incisions. The shape of the stomach is changed but the organ retains its natural function. After the incisions are closed the patient is taken to recovery. A patient receiving a gastric sleeve procedure should anticipate pain and tenderness near the surgical site for 1-2 days following the operation. This surgery is irreversible and will require that patients watch their diets closely. Since the reduced stomach size can affect the absorption of necessary vitamins and minerals it may be necessary to take supplements for an extended period.Contact us now for a Free LAP-BAND® Surgery Consultation & Insurance Verification 888.606.2263 (BAND)
Whether you're trying to get your hands on top-brand prescription drugs or their generic counterparts, one of the most important things will be the price tag. If it's out of your budget, how are you going to afford it? Naturally, there needs to be some kind of game plan, especially if you don't have the luxury of health insurance. Today's focus will be on Ozempic. What is it? How high is the price without insurance coverage? Is there anything that you can do to make it cheaper? The answers to these questions and more are provided below.
What Exactly Is Ozempic?
a Ozempic (semaglutide) is an injectable prescription medication that is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is FDA-approved, and the idea behind its use is to combine it with diet and exercise for optimal results. The aim is to prevent any spikes in blood sugar and to slow down digestion. Therefore, there is a longer feeling of fullness after meals. Additionally, it helps to prevent certain major cardiovascular events for type 2 diabetics who have known heart conditions. Sometimes, it is one of those prescription medications that you can get off-label just for weight loss, though this will happen at the discretion of a medical practitioner. Upon purchase, you will get an Ozempic pen that comes with multiple doses. When you're ready to take it, simply select a dose, and inject the medication into the stomach, thigh, or upper arm. Typically, it will only need to be taken once a week.
How Much Does Ozempic Cost Without Health Insurance Coverage?
The cost of Ozempic can vary widely depending on several factors, but it is certainly not inexpensive. Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer, set the list price at $935.77, though you might find prices even higher at different pharmacies. To secure the best deal, one option is to buy semaglutide on the Internet, where various online pharmacies offer competitive pricing. Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medication, which means that high demand and shortages are to be expected. Therefore, some sellers will offer it in compounded forms. For example, you may find that some of these products use salt semaglutide, which means that the active ingredient is different from what it should be. Avoid these options, regardless of how attractive their prices may be.
The Patent Problem
One of the first thoughts that may come to mind is to simply go the generic route. After all, that's a known approach to save money on medicine. At the time of writing, the FDA has not approved any such variation. Novo Nordisk still owns the patent on the product, which is not set to expire until 2031. You will likely not be seeing any generic form of Ozempic until the expiration date comes. This monopoly plays into the cost of the product, as does the aforementioned demand and supply equation.
How Many Ozempic Pens Are Needed Monthly
The number of pens required will depend on the dosage that you're taking. You will either need one or two monthly. Treatment tends to begin at the lower end of the dosage spectrum, which means each box of Ozempic will only have a single pen. It contains four weekly doses of 0.5 mg or eight weekly doses of 0.25 mg. Eventually, you get to the maintenance dosage of 1 mg monthly. At this point, you may have two pens with two weekly doses, or there may be one pen with four weekly doses.
Potential Ozempic Prescription Savings
Now that you know generic drugs are not an option, what can you do to save on Ozempic? There are a couple of avenues covered below. Bear in mind though that there are no guarantees. Some people may be able to use an option, while others may find that it is not available to them. Even those who can go the same route may find that they are seeing different levels of savings.
Patient Assistance Program
You may be able to take advantage of the Patient Assistance Program (PAP). If you qualify for it, you can access the medication at zero cost. Of course, there are a few eligibility requirements that need to be met, which are as follows:
- You must either be a citizen or a legal resident of the United States.
- The total income earned by your household needs to be at or below 400% of the federal poverty level (FPL).
- There should be no plans to enroll in any federal, state, or government assistance offerings, such as Veterans Affairs (VA), Low Income Subsidy (LIS), or Medicaid. Assuming all other requirements are met, persons ineligible for any such assistance can qualify for Novo Nordisk's PAP.
- You should have neither Medicare nor insurance.
The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation website can help interested parties to check if they meet FPL requirements. Note that if you are eligible for the prohibited forms of assistance and are not enrolled, Novo Nordisk will require that a declaration be signed, which indicates that no enrollment in any such program will be attempted in the future. It will take about two business days for you to know the outcome of your application. Only persons being treated for type 2 diabetes will be considered. If Ozempic is simply a part of a weight loss program for you, then Novo Nordisk's PAP is not an option.
Diabetes Saving Card
There is also the Diabetes Savings Offer Program. Like the previous option, you will not be able to take advantage of it if you are already enrolled in Medicaid, Medicare, or any other form of federal or state health assistance. This offer works by allowing people to save $150, $300, or $450 per one-month, two-month, or three-month prescription, respectively. If you wish to be considered, you must have some kind of commercial insurance plan that covers a part of the Ozempic cost. For obvious reasons, if the entire amount is covered, then you are ineligible. Again, if you're simply using Ozempic to lose weight, you cannot make use of this option. It is only meant for type 2 diabetics who are trying to control blood sugar levels or prevent major cardiovascular events.
Prescription Cards and Coupons
To reduce the cost of medications, you will sometimes find that companies offer prescription cards and coupons. Depending on the pharmacy you choose, you may even find that it is cheaper per dose to simply order a 90-day supply of Ozempic than to order one or two months' worth of it.
Consider Telehealth
One option that may be useful is going the telehealth route. These services tend to be a lot more affordable than getting in-person care. Since the visits cost less, the out-of-pocket Ozempic amount may not seem like such a huge barrier anymore. You can even use the appointments you're setting to talk about what you can do to make the medication cheaper. Ozempic is not offered over the counter, so you must speak to a licensed healthcare professional before you can get access to it. However, no one said you need to do so in person. People with high-deductible insurance coverage, alongside those with no plan, know how expensive standard doctor visits can be. Sometimes, health insurance will cover a part of the Ozempic prescription, but they need some form of prior authorization from a healthcare provider before they do so. This is yet another benefit of going the telehealth route. You can still get assistance with your pre-authorization paperwork, which means that you can get the coverage you need. Note that most plans will only cover Ozempic for those who have type 2 diabetes. If it is just a matter of weight loss, you may still end up paying the full price.
What Does Insurance Plan Coverage for Ozempic Look Like?
Insurance coverage policies will depend on the company. Not only will there be different criteria from one provider to the next, but the amount of assistance offered will also vary. It is always a good idea to discuss coverage early to understand what is possible. Some insurance plans will not cover Ozempic at all, while some will need the go-ahead from a licensed health practitioner to do so. Furthermore, some will only partially cover it, while others will take care of the entire cost.
Medicaid
Depending on the Medicaid plan you have, it may cover Ozempic and other GLP-1 drugs. The best course of action is to visit the website that corresponds to your state's Medicaid program to see if the drug is covered. If you don't already have Medicaid, there are eligibility requirements that you will need to meet to access it. One of the primary ones is being a low-income earner. Before some drugs are covered, you may find that prior authorization from the insurance provider is needed.
Medicare
When Ozempic is prescribed for certain diagnoses, most Medicare prescription drug plans will cover it. These include Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MA-PD). Note that while you may be covered, the price that you pay depends on your copay and if your deductible has been met. A quick look at your plan's formulary will tell you if Ozempic is covered. You will also be able to see its tier to get an idea of how expensive it will be. The higher the tier, the more costly the medication.
Can Anything Be Done to Work Ozempic into an Insurance Plan If It Is Not Covered?
If your insurance plan does not assist with Ozempic, you may be able to get coverage by working with your healthcare provider. An appeal can be submitted to the insurance provider on your behalf, which may or may not be approved. Sometimes more information will be requested, and even then, denial is still possible.
Is Ozempic the Cheapest Option?
Ozempic is one of the cheaper GLP-1 medications out there when compared to Wegovy, Mounjaro, Saxenda, Trulicity, etc. With commercial insurance, however, you may be able to get a one-month Zepbound prescription (another injectable GLP-1 option) for as low as $25. Note, however, that Zepbound works as a cheaper option for weight loss only. If you're trying to treat type 2 diabetes, it does not work.
The Bottom Line
Ozempic comes with a hefty price tag, starting at $935.77 and often costing even more at retail. Fortunately, there are options to help ease the financial burden, like the Novo Nordisk PAP, which could provide some savings. Insurance coverage may also be available depending on your provider. However, until generic versions are introduced, paying full price might be your only option if these alternatives aren’t suitable. If you’re looking to explore other sources, you can find semaglutide for sale, which might offer more affordable options.
Is Nandrolone Phenylpropionate a Working Bodybuilding Gear for Bulking?
Understanding Nandrolone Phenylpropionate
Nandrolone Phenylpropionate is an anabolic steroid derived from testosterone. It features a phenylpropionate ester, which allows for a quicker release and shorter half-life compared to other nandrolone esters, such as nandrolone decanoate. This rapid action makes NPP a popular choice among athletes and bodybuilders seeking immediate results.
Nandrolone Phenylpropionate (NPP) has garnered significant attention in the bodybuilding community, particularly among those looking to bulk up effectively. As a powerful anabolic steroid, NPP is known for its unique properties that enhance muscle growth, strength, and overall performance. In this article, we will explore the effectiveness of Nandrolone Phenylpropionate for bulking, its benefits, potential side effects, and optimal usage protocols.
Key Features of NPP
- Anabolic Activity: NPP has a strong anabolic rating, making it effective for muscle growth and recovery.
- Moderate Androgenic Effects: While it has some androgenic properties, these are generally milder compared to other steroids, leading to fewer side effects.
- Non-aromatizing: Nandrolone Phenylpropionate does not convert to estrogen, minimizing the risk of estrogenic side effects like water retention and gynecomastia.
The Role of NPP in Bulking Cycles
Nandrolone Phenylpropionate is often utilized in bulking cycles due to its unique ability to promote muscle mass gains. Here are some key reasons why it is considered an effective gear for bulking:
1. Enhanced Muscle Growth
NPP is renowned for its ability to stimulate muscle protein synthesis, leading to significant gains in lean muscle mass. The steroid promotes an anabolic environment, allowing users to pack on muscle more efficiently during a bulking phase.
- Increased Nitrogen Retention: NPP helps improve nitrogen balance, which is crucial for muscle growth.
- Strength Gains: Users often report increased strength levels, allowing for heavier lifting and better overall workout performance.
2. Improved Recovery Times
One of the notable benefits of using Nandrolone Phenylpropionate is its positive impact on recovery:
- Reduced Muscle Soreness: NPP aids in reducing post-workout muscle soreness, enabling athletes to train more frequently.
- Faster Recovery from Injury: Nandrolone has been shown to promote recovery from injuries, making it a valuable tool for athletes pushing their limits.
3. Minimal Water Retention
Unlike many other anabolic steroids, NPP is known for causing minimal water retention. This characteristic is particularly advantageous during bulking phases, where a clean and lean appearance is desired. Users can experience solid muscle gains without the unwanted fluffiness that often accompanies other compounds.
4. Versatility in Stacking
NPP can be effectively stacked with various other steroids to enhance bulking results. Here are some popular stack combinations:
- Testosterone: Stacking NPP with testosterone can amplify muscle growth and overall performance.
- Trenbolone: For advanced users, combining NPP with trenbolone can yield significant gains in strength and muscle mass.
- Dianabol: This combination can lead to rapid weight gain and improved recovery.
How to Use Nandrolone Phenylpropionate
For optimal results, users should understand the best practices for incorporating NPP into their bodybuilding cycles. Here are some guidelines:
Dosage and Administration
- Recommended Dosage: A common dosage for Nandrolone Phenylpropionate ranges from 300 mg to 600 mg per week. Individual needs may vary based on experience and goals.
- Injection Frequency: Due to its shorter half-life, NPP should be injected every other day to maintain stable blood levels and maximize its effectiveness.
Cycle Length
- Typical Cycle Duration: Most bulking cycles with NPP last between 8 and 12 weeks, allowing ample time to achieve significant gains.
Potential Side Effects
While Nandrolone Phenylpropionate offers numerous benefits, users should be aware of potential side effects. Here are some common issues associated with NPP:
1. Hormonal Imbalances
- Suppression of Natural Testosterone: Like most anabolic steroids, NPP can suppress natural testosterone production, necessitating the use of post-cycle therapy (PCT) after the cycle ends.
2. Androgenic Effects
- Possible Side Effects: Users may experience side effects such as acne, hair loss, and increased body hair growth, although these effects are generally milder than with more androgenic steroids.
3. Cardiovascular Concerns
- Cholesterol Levels: NPP can negatively impact cholesterol levels, so regular monitoring is recommended.
Where to Find NPP Steroid for Sale
For those considering adding Nandrolone Phenylpropionate to their bulking regimen, it’s essential to source it from reputable suppliers. When searching for NPP steroid for sale, prioritize vendors known for quality and authenticity to avoid counterfeit products that could jeopardize health and performance.
Conclusion
Nandrolone Phenylpropionate has proven to be an effective anabolic steroid for bodybuilders aiming to bulk up. Its unique properties, including enhanced muscle growth, improved recovery, and minimal water retention, make it a valuable addition to any bulking cycle. However, as with any steroid, users must be mindful of potential side effects and ensure proper dosage and administration.
By understanding the benefits and protocols associated with NPP, bodybuilders can maximize their gains while prioritizing health and safety in their pursuit of muscle growth.