Once-Weekly Subcutaneous Medication
Wegovy is a prescription medicine used with a reduced-calorie meal plan and increased physical activity to help adults with obesity or weight-related medical problems lose weight and keep it off.
1. How Wegovy Works
Wegovy mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). It targets the brain to increase feelings of fullness and slow down how quickly your stomach empties, helping you eat less.
- Indication: Adults with obesity (BMI >30 kg/m²) or those who are overweight (BMI >27 kg/m²) with weight-related medical conditions.
- Usage: Must be used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
2. Dosage Escalation
Your doctor will gradually increase your dose over 16 to 20 weeks to help your body tolerate the medication:
- Weeks 1–4: 0.25 mg weekly
- Weeks 5–8: 0.5 mg weekly
- Weeks 9–12: 1.0 mg weekly
- Weeks 13–16: 1.7 mg weekly
- Week 17+: 2.4 mg weekly (Full maintenance dose)
3. Expected Clinical Results
In a 68-week clinical trial (STEP 1), adults without diabetes lost significantly more weight than those using diet and exercise alone:
| Treatment | Avg. Weight Loss (%) | Avg. Weight Loss (lbs)* |
|---|---|---|
| Wegovy Injection (2.4 mg) | 14.9% | ~33 lbs |
| Placebo | 2.4% | ~5 lbs |
*Based on a starting weight of 220 lbs.
Major Milestone: 1 in 3 adults (30%) taking Wegovy lost 20% or more of their total body weight.
4. Instructions for Use
- Dose: Inject once a week, on the same day every week.
- Site: Inject under the skin (subcutaneously) in your stomach, thigh, or upper arm.
- Timing: Can be taken with or without food, at any time of day.
- Storage: Store pens in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.
5. Common Side Effects
Most common side effects include:
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Diarrhea or Constipation
- Stomach pain and Bloating
- Heartburn/Acid Reflux
- Fatigue and Headache
6. Important Safety Information
Boxed Warning: Thyroid Tumors Semaglutide caused thyroid tumors in animal studies. It is unknown if it causes these in humans.
- Do not use if you or a family member have ever had Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) or MEN 2.
- Tell your doctor if you get a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing.
Other Serious Warnings:
- Pancreatitis: Stop use immediately for severe, persistent stomach pain.
- Gallbladder Problems: Such as gallstones.
- Kidney Stress: Dehydration from nausea can cause kidney issues.
- Diabetic Retinopathy: Patients with Type 2 diabetes should monitor for vision changes.
- Pregnancy: Stop Wegovy at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy.
7. Comparison: Injection vs. Pill
- Frequency: Injection is Weekly; Pills are Daily.
- Convenience: Injection has no fasting requirements, making it easier for those with irregular morning schedules.
- Efficacy: Both forms show similar weight loss power, though the injection has been used longer for weight management.
8. Manufacturer Coupons
We want to ensure your prescribed treatment is as affordable as possible. Many pharmaceutical manufacturers offer Copay Savings Cards that can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
