Affordable GLP-1/GIP Weight Loss with Semaglutide & Tirzepatide in St. George, Utah
Serving patients across Washington county – including Washington City, Bloomington, Santa Clara, Ivins, Hurricane, Toquerville and those traveling from Mesquite & Las Vegas, Nevada
Lose up to 21% or more of body weight*
Rx available for Ozempic® (semaglutide), Mounjaro® (tirzepatide)
Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide available for those desiring custom dosing or unique formulations not available commercially**
No hidden fees & transparent pricing. Price includes medical consult, medication & ongoing support.
In-person or virtual consults
Pickup medication in-clnic or fast, FREE delivery to all of Utah
* Based on the Tirzepatide SURMOUNT-1 Clinical Trial published in the NEJM, 2022
** Compounded medications are not FDA approved and come from U.S. licensed pharmacies with Certificate of Analysis showing concentration and purity.
What Is Potere Health MD?
🎥 In this video... we explain what makes Potere Health MD different — and how physician-guided weight-loss provides safer, more effective results than generic online programs.
Full Video Narration: What is Potere Health MD? Physician Guided, Evidence-Based Care Potere Health MD was created to bridge the gap between overpriced med spas and low-cost online programs with minimal oversight— because you shouldn’t have to choose between quality and affordability. Potere means power. At Potere Health-MD, we empower you to make informed decisions about your health through evidence-based medicine — combining the best medical science with Dr. Silva’s clinical experience — to meet your needs as an individual. You can always count on guidance rooted in clinical research. With brick-and-mortar clinics in St. George, Cedar City, and Salt Lake City — and telehealth throughout Utah — we provide the same high-quality, physician-guided care whether you meet with us in person or online. Getting started is easy. Step 1: Schedule a free in-person or virtual appointment with Dr. Silva. Step 2: Complete a short intake form so we understand your goals. Step 3: Meet with Dr. Silva to develop your personalized treatment plan. Step 4: Receive your medication the same day in clinic — or have it shipped to your home at no cost. And finally: Stay connected as we support your progress and adjust dosing as needed. At Potere Health-MD, you’re not alone. We provide evidence-based medical guidance with friendly, accessible support tailored to your goals. Experience a better way to lose weight. Visit PotereHealthMD.com to schedule your free consultation today.
Potere Health MD is a physician-led weight-loss clinic in St. George, UT, directed by Dr. Joshua Silva, MD. Whether through telehealth visits or in-person appointments, we provide evidence-based semaglutide and tirzepatide (GLP-1/GIP) therapy with safe dosing and true physician oversight — offering the convenience of an online prescriber with the personalized care of a family physician. Patients from Washington County, Mesquite, and Las Vegas choose us for affordable, physician-guided treatment.
🔗 Read what satisfied customers have to say about Potere Health MD.
Why Weight Loss Is So Hard – And Why Most Diets Fail Without Medical Support
🎥 In this video... we explain the biology that makes weight loss so difficult and how treatment helps your body work with you.
Full Video Narration: Understanding Why Weight Loss Is So Hard: The Biology Behind It According to the CDC, nearly 74 percent of adults in the U.S. are overweight or obese. Let's understand why. Our bodies are wired for survival, not modern life. We evolved to crave calorie-dense foods, over eat, and store extra energy as fat because food was once hard to find. Now-that food is everywhere, those same survival instincts work against us. You might think, “But I hardly eat!” Yet research shows most people underestimate calories eaten. In a New England Journal of Medicine study, participants who attributed their weight to slow metabolisms actually underreported calorie intake by 47%. Their metabolisms and hormone levels were shown to be normal — including thyroid and cortisol levels. That’s where Potere Health MD can help. Medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide mimic natural hormones that regulate appetite and digestion. They help you feel full sooner, reduce cravings, and quiet food noise — making it easier to maintain a calorie deficit. Clinical trials show average weight loss of 15–21% of total body weight — beyond what lifestyle changes alone typically achieve. Weight loss is challenging. It’s not fair that you can eat more in 60 seconds than you can burn in 60 minutes of strenuous exercise. Let Potere Health MD help! We pair proven medications with real, physician-guided support to help you achieve your weight-loss-goals
Weight loss isn’t just about willpower — your metabolism, hormones, and brain actively fight calorie restriction. As weight begins to drop, hunger increases, cravings intensify, and metabolism slows. These normal physiological responses make long-term weight loss extremely difficult without medical support — a challenge we see daily in our St. George, Utah patients.
🔗 Read the full explanation of the challenges of weight loss in our detailed article.
Why Weight Loss Matters — The Real Health Risks of Obesity
🎥 In this video, we break down how weight loss improves whole-body health.
Full Video Narration: Why Weight Loss Matters: The Unseen Health Risks of Obesity Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is not about appearance. Excess weight increases the risk of type 2-diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, heart disease, stroke, fatty liver disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and joint problems. Excess weight also increases the risk of several types of cancer, including colorectal, liver, kidney, pancreatic, endometrial, ovarian, and post-menopausal breast cancers. When we lose weight, the body begins to heal. Even modest weight loss improves blood sugar; blood pressure and cholesterol decrease; liver fat declines; breathing becomes easier; joint pain eases; and the risk of cancer decreases. Research shows that these changes boost energy, mobility, mood, and overall well-being. If you're struggling to reach or maintain a healthy weight, Potere Health MD can help. With proven, research-backed medications, you can lose between 15 to 21 percent of your body weight and gain real, lasting health benefits.
Losing weight isn't strictly cosmetic. Excess weight increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, fatty liver, sleep apnea, stroke, and several cancers. The good news: even modest weight loss improves metabolic health, reduces inflammation, and lowers long-term disease risk — benefits we focus on with our patients throughout St. George and Washington County.
🔗 Explore the medical benefits of healthy weight reduction.
Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide — Which Is Right for You?
🎥 In this video... we compare the medications and explain who benefits most from each.
Full Video Narration: Semaglutide or tirzepatide: Which is Right for You? Unerstanding the Difference Between Today’s Most Effective Weight-loss Medications Script: Semaglutide and tirzepa-tide are among the most effective medications for weight management, They both help regulateappetite and reduce food cravings for lasting results. Semaglutide mimics a natural hormone — GLP-1 — that tells your brain you’re full, slows stomach emptying, and improves insulin use. Tirzepatide, in contrast, mimics the hormone GIP —in ADDITION TO—GLP-1, giving it a dual mechanism of action. This allows it to target two systems at once, enhancing it's effects on appetite control and food cravings for even greater weight loss. Both medications produce significant results. In clinical trials, patients on Semaglutide lost about 15 percent of their body weight, compared to roughly 21 percent on Tirzepatide — an impressive difference and a major step forward in medical weight management. Both medications share similar side effects, most commonly mild gastrointestinal discomfort. However, Tirzepatide is often better tolerated, with many patients experiencing fewer or milder symptoms. So, which should YOU choose? Tirzepatide offers maximum effectiveness with generally fewer side effects, though it costs a bit more... Semaglutide is an excellent option for those seeking a more affordable path — and with physician supervision and personalized dosing, it can be very effective. That’s the advantage of physician-guided weight loss — the kind of care you receive from Potere Health MD.
Our St. George patients often ask which is better? Semaglutide (GLP-1) and Tirzepatide (GLP-1/GIP) both help reduce appetite, quiet food noise, and support meaningful weight loss. Tirzepatide typically produces greater weight loss, while semaglutide is often more affordable. The right choice depends on your goals, response, and medical history.
Managing Side Effects of Semaglutide & Tirzepatide
🎥 In this video... we explain how to prevent, reduce, and manage GLP-1/GIP side effects safely.
Full Video Narration: Side Effects of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide: What to Expect and How we Manage them Medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide are remarkably effective—but they can have side effects. At Potere Health MD, you're never on your own. Dr. Silva works with you personally to tailor dosing, monitor progress, and manage any side effects—ensuring treatment is comfortable and effective. If side effects make it hard to work, exercise, or eat properly, they need to be addressed. Weight loss should never result from being too sick to eat.— You’re likely familiar with the most common side effects — nausea, heartburn, constipation, diarrhea, or sometimes fatigue. These effects are usually temporary and dose-related.— Many of these gastrointestinal symptoms can be reduced—or even avoided—with two simple strategies. First, eat enough. Skipping meals can worsen nausea. Second, avoid overeating. Smaller, more frequent meals and limiting high-fat foods help your stomach empty comfortably and reduce reflux or bloating. At Potere Health MD, we take proactive steps to make weight loss comfortable and sustainable. We start low and increase gradually to minimize side effects, adjusting as your body responds. If side effects remain difficult, Dr. Silva uses an individualized approach—dividing the dose into twice-weekly injections. This delivers the same total amount of medication but in smaller, more frequent doses that can significantly reduce discomfort. He may also recommend over-the-counter or prescription options for added relief. And remember — most side effects are temporary and improve as your body adapts.— With the right strategy and physician supervision, nearly everyone can find a regimen that works. That’s the advantage of the individualized, evidence-based care you receive at Potere Health MD. —
GLP-1/GIP medications are very effective at weight loss but carry potential side effects. Most of these — nausea, reflux, constipation, diarrhea, or fatigue — are temporary and dose-related. Our St. George based team focus on strategies like slow titration, proper meal timing, and personalized dosing, which allows most patients to tolerate treatment very well. You should never feel too sick to eat or function.
🔗 Read our complete guide to side-effect management.
Do Semaglutide or Tirzepatide Cause Muscle Loss? Here’s What the Science Actually Shows
🎥 In this video... we explain how to protect muscle and why lean-mass percentage often improves with treatment.
Full Video Narration: Does GLP-1/GIP Therapy Cause Muscle Loss? The Truth About Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and Lean Muscle Preservation You may have heard that medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide can cause muscle loss. But is that really true? Let’s look at what the science actually shows. When you lose weight, your body sheds both fat and muscle. That’s not "muscle wasting." It’s called adaptive remodeling — your body’s way of adjusting to a new weight.— Your body constantly adapts to the load it carries. When you weigh more, muscles strengthen to carry that load. As you lose weight, the demand on your muscles decreases, and your body fine-tunes itself to match. This isn’t “muscle wasting” —it’s efficient biology. — Research confirms this is occurring with semaglutide and tirzepatide. Roughly 70 percent of weight loss comes from fat mass, while 30 percent is lean tissue — the same healthy ratio seen with other weight loss methods. In fact, your overall percentage of lean mass actually increases after treatment! Here’s why this happens: Muscle is metabolically expensive — it burns about three times more calories than fat. Fat, meanwhile, stores energy for survival. So when calorie intake drops, your body conserves energy by trimming unneeded muscle before dipping into fat stores — UNLESS! you tell your body it is needed. We do this through resistance training. Movement and resistance training signals to your brain that muscle is still needed. Strength training just two to three times a week helps preserve muscle and burn fat instead. Nutrition is just as important. Studies show that eating about one-half to 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight each day helps maintain muscle. For most adults, that’s roughly 25 to 40 grams of protein per meal.— Of course, not all muscle loss is healthy. If calories or protein is lacking, the body can start breaking down muscle for energy — a process called muscle wasting. So, do GLP-1 medications cause muscle loss? Not directly. Used properly, they help your body lose fat and develop a leaner, healthier profile.—
Patients in St. George often ask about muscles loss. Fortunately, GLP-1/GIP medications do not cause muscle damage or promote muscle wasting. Some lean mass is lost, in addition to fat, during any weight loss.
With adequate protein and 2–3 weekly strength-training sessions, patients preserve muscle while improving body composition.
🔗 Read the full science behind muscle changes during weight loss.
Does Semaglutide or Tirzepatide Cause Hair Loss?
🎥 In this video... we explain why hair shedding happens and what you can do to support healthy hair during GLP-1/GIP therapy.
Full Video Narration: Does semaglutide or tirzepatide cause hair loss? Here’s What’s Actually Going On Script: The answer is no. These medications don’t damage hair follicles. If your hair does thin during weight loss, what’s happening is called teelogen effluvium — a temporary shedding phase that can occur during major stressors — like rapid weight loss, illness, or surgery. Your body interprets extreme weight loss as ‘starvation’ and temporarily redirects energy away from hair growth, forcing between 25 to 50% of hairs from the growth phase to the shedding phase. This makes shedding much more visible, even though follicles remain healthy. The good news — hair grows back once the body stabilizes. The key to preserving hair is gradual, well-nourished weight loss. Prioritizing lean protein and maintaining nutrients like iron, zinc, vitamin D, and essential fatty acids — helps support healthy hair growth. Biotin supplements, by the way, don’t help unless you’re truly deficient — which is rare. At Potere Health MD, we rely on physician-guided, evidence-based treatment plans — not social media influencers. We support gradual, healthy weight loss that protects your whole body — including your hair.
These medications do not damage hair follicles. If increased shedding does occur, it is due to rapid weight loss, a temporary process called Telogen Effluvium — not medication toxicity. Treatment through our St. George, UT clinic emphasizes adequate protein, nutrients, and gradual weight loss to prevent hair shedding. And regrowth is expected if it occurs.
🔗 Learn more in our full article on GLP-1/GIP therapy and hair shedding.
Benefits of GLP-1/GIP Medications Beyond Weight Loss
🎥 In this video... we explain the full-body benefits of GLP-1/GIP therapy.
Full Video Narration: Beyond Weight Loss: the Full Health Benefits of GLP-1GIP Medications Many people think medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide are only for weight loss. In reality, they act on GLP-1 and GIP receptors throughout the body—offering benefits that reach far beyond the number on the scale. GLP-1 receptors are found in the pancreas, brain, heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and lungs, while GIP receptors also appear in fat tissue. Together, these medications support multiple aspects of metabolic and overall health, not just appetite control. They improve blood sugar regulation, lower A1C, and enhance insulin sensitivity, reducing long-term diabetic risks. They also improve cardiovascular health by lowering cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure, with early studies showing fewer heart attacks and strokes. In the liver, they reduce fat buildup and protect against fatty liver disease– For those with sleep apnea, these medications can reduce nighttime breathing interruptions and improve sleep quality and daytime energy. The kidneys also benefit, with studies showing slower disease progression and better preservation of kidney function. Emerging research suggests benefits for inflammation and brain health, including possible protection against cognitive decline and dementia—though research is still ongoing. So while weight loss is a major benefit, it's only one piece of the puzzle. GLP-1 and GIP medications protect metabolic, cardiovascular, and overall health — making them one of the most important medical advances for people facing excess weight and its complications.
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide improve far more than appetite. They enhance blood sugar control, lower A1C, reduce inflammation, improve cholesterol and blood pressure, protect the liver, reduce sleep apnea, and support long-term cardiovascular and metabolic health. Our patients in Washington County appreciate these whole-body benefits in addition to weight loss.
🔗 Explore the broader health effects of GLP-1/GIP medications.
🔗 Learn what “reduced inflammation” really means — and what it doesn’t
Additional FAQ
🎥 In this video... we explain the full-body benefits of GLP-1/GIP therapy.
Full Video Narration: Beyond Weight Loss: the Full Health Benefits of GLP-1GIP Medications Many people think medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide are only for weight loss. In reality, they act on GLP-1 and GIP receptors throughout the body—offering benefits that reach far beyond the number on the scale. GLP-1 receptors are found in the pancreas, brain, heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and lungs, while GIP receptors also appear in fat tissue. Together, these medications support multiple aspects of metabolic and overall health, not just appetite control. They improve blood sugar regulation, lower A1C, and enhance insulin sensitivity, reducing long-term diabetic risks. They also improve cardiovascular health by lowering cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure, with early studies showing fewer heart attacks and strokes. In the liver, they reduce fat buildup and protect against fatty liver disease– For those with sleep apnea, these medications can reduce nighttime breathing interruptions and improve sleep quality and daytime energy. The kidneys also benefit, with studies showing slower disease progression and better preservation of kidney function. Emerging research suggests benefits for inflammation and brain health, including possible protection against cognitive decline and dementia—though research is still ongoing. So while weight loss is a major benefit, it's only one piece of the puzzle. GLP-1 and GIP medications protect metabolic, cardiovascular, and overall health — making them one of the most important medical advances for people facing excess weight and its complications.
Can GLP-1/GIP medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide help with PCOS symptoms or weight loss?
Consistent medical research is showing that
Do I need to stay on GLP-1/GIP medications (such as semaglutide or tirzepatide) long-term to maintain weight loss?
Is compounded semaglutide or tirzepatide safe, and how does it compare to FDA-approved GLP-1/GIP medications?
“What is the best diet to follow while taking GLP-1/GIP medications for weight loss?”
“Can older adults safely use GLP-1/GIP medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide for weight loss?”
GLP-1/GIP medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide can be used safely in older adults under medical supervision. They provide weight loss and important cardiovascular benefits, including a lower risk of heart attack and stroke. But careful monitoring is needed to protect muscle mass, bone health, and overall metabolic stability
🔗 Learn how GLP-1/GIP medications can be used safely in older adults
“Who should not take GLP-1/GIP medications such as semaglutide or tirzepatide?”
“Can GLP-1/GIP medications help with inflammation or metabolic health?”
“How fast can I expect to lose weight on semaglutide or tirzepatide?”
Most people taking semaglutide lose about 5–6% of their starting weight by 3 months and 10–12% by 6–7 months, with long-term results averaging 15% or more once a therapeutic dose is reached.
Tirzepatide works even faster for many patients, leading to 9–11% loss by 3 months, 14–17% by 6 months, and 19–21% reductions over 12–18 months.
Your exact pace depends on reaching an effective dose and maintaining healthy nutrition.
See our full breakdown in the complete article.
"Why has my weight loss plateaued on semaglutide or tirzepatide?”
Weight-loss plateaus on semaglutide or tirzepatide are common and expected, reflecting normal metabolic adaptation to a lower calorie intake and reduced body weight — not treatment failure.
“Can I use GLP-1/GIP medications if I have diabetes?”
“What happens if I stop semaglutide or tirzepatide?”
“Can GLP-1/GIP medications help with inflammation or metabolic health?”
GLP-1/GIP medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide can improve metabolic health and reduce metabolic inflammation by improving insulin resistance and lowering cardiometabolic risk factors. Clinical studies often show reductions in inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) alongside improvements in conditions linked to obesity, such as fatty liver and cardiovascular risk.
However, these medications do not treat autoimmune or chronic inflammatory diseases, which involve different inflammatory pathways.
🔗 Learn how GLP-1/GIP medications affect metabolic inflammation
🔗 Explore the broader health effects of GLP-1/GIP medications.
🔗 Learn what “reduced inflammation” really means — and what it doesn’t
Testimonials
"Easy to schedule and see Dr. Silva. He was very knowledgeable about my medical history and encouraging about my prospects for improved health through weight loss."
L.L., 2/27/2024
"Dr. Silva took time to explain the role/side effects of using medication to assist with weight loss. He encouraged and helped me to formulate realistic weight loss goals. In addition, provided strategies to help me achieve those goals. Great experience!"
J.E.G., 12/14/2024
"This was one of the easiest visits to schedule. Dr. Silva is so nice and answered all my questions."
B.R., 5/5/2025
"Better sleep, knee pain is now nonexistent, more energy, and I think my skin looks better. I’m down 50 pounds!”
N.W., 8/12/2025
"Dr. Silva was very kind and thorough. His prices are amazing. I am glad I found him."
J.A., 5/21/2024
"Had a great virtual appointment with Dr. Silva today. The consultation was smooth, and he took time to explain everything clearly. I left feeling informed and confident. Highly recommend."
A.W., 1/22/2025
"Quick and easy."
M.W., 7/2/2025
"Saw acquaintances for first time since July. She didn't even recognize me until I started talking”
J.G., 11/12/2025
"Dr. Silva was very knowledgable, helpful, and very pleasant to talk with. He answered all my questions with confidence. Thank you Dr. Silva."
J.F., 7/18/2025
"Dr. Silva was very helpful and polite. He answered all of our questions in a professional manner and explained everything to us. He is a very nice man!"
N.W., 4/15/2025
"I had a great experience at my first appointment all my questions and concerns were answered and they were very good about making sure I was taken care of before I left the appointment. Love the office”
N.E., 7/11/2025