Scars and Wounds

The newest FDA-approved treatment for weight management and type 2 diabetes.

Includes tirzepatide, a medication that acts on two important hormones: GLP-1 and GIP.

This dual-action approach helps suppress appetite while also supporting better blood sugar regulation.

Intended to deliver improved results when used alongside lifestyle modifications.

Approved for weight management in adults who are overweight or obese.

Contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist medication.

Works by mimicking a natural hormone that influences the brain’s appetite regulation centers.

Supports reduced hunger and calorie consumption to encourage long-term weight loss.

Although oral and injectable weight loss medications can contain the same active ingredient (like semaglutide), their chemical formulations are specifically tailored to their method of delivery. Injectable medications are administered directly into the bloodstream, while oral medications must withstand the digestive process, resulting in different designs to maintain their effectiveness.

Key distinctions include:

• Injectables bypass the digestive tract, allowing for more efficient absorption; oral medications often require absorption enhancers.
• Oral tablets are formulated with protective coatings and carriers to withstand stomach acid.
• Injectables are often chemically more stable, especially for peptide-based drugs.
• Injectables generally allow for higher drug levels in the blood.
• Oral tablets contain more excipients (binders, coatings, etc.) than injectables.

Oral weight loss medications can be effective, but they don’t always function identically to injectable treatments. Even when containing the same active ingredient, oral medications are absorbed differently, which can slightly impact how much of the drug is available to work in the body.

That said, for many individuals, oral options offer a convenient and clinically effective alternative.

Key points:

• Oral medications may deliver lower drug levels into the bloodstream compared to injectables.
• Higher oral doses are often used to make up for reduced absorption.
• Clinical trials show that oral semaglutide (like Rybelsus) can produce weight loss comparable to injections in some individuals.
• For those who prefer to avoid injections, oral treatments provide an effective option when taken as directed and consistently.

Scars can result from various types of wounds and injuries. Some common causes of scars include:
1. Accidents and Injuries
Accidental cuts, burns, falls, and other injuries can damage the skin and lead to scar formation.
2. Surgical Procedures
Surgeries, whether for medical or cosmetic reasons, typically involve incisions that result in scars.
3. Acne
Severe or cystic acne can leave behind scars, especially if the pimples are picked or popped.
4. Skin Conditions
Certain skin conditions, like psoriasis or eczema, can cause persistent inflammation and scarring.
5. Infections
Infections, particularly those that affect deep skin layers, can lead to scarring.

The diagnosis of scars is typically straightforward, as they are visible and often accompanied by a history of the injury or condition that caused them. However, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation, especially if the scar is associated with a medical condition. Healthcare providers may also assess scars to determine their type and severity, which can guide treatment decisions.

Scars can be managed and, in many cases, their appearance can be improved. The choice of treatment depends on the type and severity of the scar. Here are some common scar treatment options:
1. Topical Treatments:
Silicone Gel or Sheets: These products can help flatten and soften scars.
Vitamin E Cream: Some people find that applying vitamin E cream may improve the appearance of scars.
2. Minimally Invasive Procedures:
Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can reduce redness and texture irregularities in scars.
Microdermabrasion: This procedure removes the top layer of skin, which can improve the texture of scars.
Chemical Peels: Chemical solutions are applied to the skin to remove the top layer, reducing the appearance of scars.
3. Surgical Procedures:
Scar Revision: In some cases, a surgeon may remove the old scar and create a new, less noticeable scar.
Skin Grafting: Skin grafts involve taking healthy skin from one area of the body and using it to cover the scarred area.
4. Steroid Injections:
Corticosteroids: Injected into the scar, corticosteroids can reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of raised scars.
5. Over-the-Counter Products:
Scar Creams and Ointments: Some over-the-counter products are designed to reduce the appearance of scars. It's essential to choose products with clinically proven ingredients.
6. Prescription Medications:
Retinoids: These medications can help improve the appearance of certain types of scars.
7. Pressure Garments:
For hypertrophic or keloid scars, pressure garments can help flatten and soften the scar tissue.

Preventing scars or minimizing their appearance starts with proper wound care and management. Here are some tips for preventing excessive scarring:
1. Keep Wounds Clean: Cleanse wounds gently with mild soap and water, and apply an antibiotic ointment to reduce the risk of infection.
2. Protect Healing Wounds: Cover healing wounds with sterile bandages to prevent exposure to the elements and bacteria.
3. Avoid Picking or Scratching: Refrain from picking at scabs or pimples, as this can worsen scarring.
4. Use Sunscreen: Protect scars from sun exposure to prevent them from darkening and becoming more noticeable.
5. Early Treatment: If you have a history of developing hypertrophic or keloid scars, seek early treatment to minimize their appearance.

Read more about Scars on the NHS website, following the link below:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/scars/