AOD-9604 Dosing Guidelines
Effective Date: January 2025
Important Notice: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always talk to your doctor before starting or changing any medication.
1. What is AOD-9604?
AOD-9604 is a medication used to help with weight loss in adults who are overweight or have obesity, especially if they have other health issues like high blood pressure or high cholesterol. It is a fragment of the human growth hormone that specifically targets fat reduction without affecting blood sugar levels.
2. When is AOD-9604 Used?
Weight Loss:
For adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher (obesity).
For those with a BMI of 27 or higher (overweight) plus at least one weight-related health problem (like high blood pressure or diabetes).
3. How to Take AOD-9604
A. For Weight Loss
Starting Dose:
200 mcg injected under the skin once daily for the first 2 weeks.
Increasing the Dose:
After 2 weeks, increase to 300 mcg once daily.
After another 2 weeks, your doctor might increase it to 400 mcg once daily if needed and if you’re handling it well.
Regular Dose:
400 mcg once daily.
Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your weight loss progress and how well you tolerate the medication.
How to Take It:
Take it on the same time every day, with or without food.
Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
Change the injection spot each day (belly, thigh, or upper arm) to avoid skin issues.
4. Special Considerations
Kidney Problems:
Usually no need to change the dose.
Be careful if you have severe kidney issues.
Liver Problems:
Use carefully if you have moderate or severe liver issues.
Older Adults:
No dose changes needed, but watch for side effects.
Children:
Not approved for use in kids as of October 2023. Check with your doctor for updates.
5. Who Should Not Take AOD-9604 & Safety Tips
Do Not Take If:
You have a history of certain cancers, especially thyroid cancer.
You are allergic to AOD-9604 or any ingredients in the medicine.
Use Carefully If:
You’ve had pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).
You have eye problems related to diabetes.
You have a history of thyroid tumors.
6. Possible Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
Redness or irritation where you injected
Headache
Fatigue
Dizziness
Rare but Serious Side Effects:
Pancreatitis (severe stomach pain)
Eye problems related to diabetes getting worse
Tumors in the thyroid gland
7. What to Monitor
For Weight Loss:
Keep track of your weight loss.
Check for any nutritional deficiencies.
Watch for any side effects regularly.
8. Storing AOD-9604
Keep unopened pens in the fridge.
Once you start using a pen, you can keep it at room temperature or in the fridge, but use it within the time specified on the label.
Protect it from light and don’t freeze it.
9. Patient Education
Helping you understand how to use AOD-9604 properly is key to your success. Here’s what you need to know:
A. How to Inject AOD-9604 Correctly
Before You Start:
Check the pen for any damage or discoloration.
Make sure the medicine looks clear. Don’t use it if it’s cloudy or has particles.
Steps to Inject:
Wash your hands with soap and water.
Take off the pen cap and make sure the dose is correct.
Clean the area where you’ll inject (belly, thigh, or upper arm) with an alcohol wipe and let it dry.
Pinch your skin lightly and insert the needle at a 45- to 90-degree angle.
Press and hold the injection button until the dose counter goes back to zero.
Pull out the needle and throw it away safely in a sharps container.
Changing Injection Spots:
Use a different spot each day to avoid skin problems.
Don’t inject where you have scars, moles, or a lot of hair.
B. Why It’s Important to Stick to Your Schedule
Be Consistent:
Take AOD-9604 at the same time each day to keep the medicine working well.
Set Reminders:
Use a daily reminder or link your injection to something you do every day to help you remember.
If You Miss a Dose:
Take it as soon as you remember if it’s within the same day.
If you miss a dose, don’t take two doses close together. Just continue with your regular schedule.
C. Understanding Side Effects and When to Get Help
Common Side Effects:
You might have redness or irritation where you injected, headaches, feel tired, or dizzy.
These usually get better as your body gets used to the medicine.
Handling Side Effects:
Make sure to stay hydrated and rest if you feel dizzy or tired.
Serious Side Effects:
Pancreatitis: Severe belly pain that might spread to your back, vomiting, and high pancreatic enzymes.
Eye Problems: Worsening vision, eye pain, or other vision changes.
Thyroid Issues: A lump in your neck, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath.
Allergic Reactions: Rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
What to Do:
Get medical help right away if you experience any serious side effects.
D. Making Lifestyle Changes to Boost Results
Healthy Eating:
Eat a balanced diet with lots of vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Cut back on sugary drinks, fatty foods, and processed snacks.
Stay Active:
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, like walking, swimming, or biking.
Do strength training exercises at least twice a week.
Behavior Tips:
Keep a food and activity diary to track your progress.
Consider working with a dietitian or fitness expert for a personalized plan.
Support for Weight Loss:
Join support groups or counseling to help with the emotional and psychological parts of losing weight.
E. Keep Up with Doctor Visits
Regular Check-Ups:
Go to your scheduled appointments to check how well the treatment is working and adjust the dose if needed.
Blood Tests:
Have regular blood tests to monitor your health and the effects of the medication.
Stay in Touch:
Let your doctor know if you have any concerns or problems with your medication.
Disclaimer: This guide may not include the latest research or medical practices. Always talk to your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your situation.
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